Knowledge CentreTechnical Resources SearchConference PapersHighway 2 Bridge over Peace River at Dunvegan, AB An Integrated Work Zone and Road Condition Solution

Highway 2 Bridge over Peace River at Dunvegan, AB An Integrated Work Zone and Road Condition Solution

Abstract

This paper outlines one aspect of how Alberta Transportation (AT) approached the construction and continuing maintenance dilemma for the Highway 2 Bridge over the Peace River at Dunvegan, Alberta. A two year construction project to replace the deck on the 750 meter long Dunvegan suspension bridge will begin in spring of 2008. The work zone includes a four kilometer, steep slope approach which is a regular route for heavily loaded resource trucks carrying timber, and oil, and gas production equipment. In addition to the steep slope, the traffic, which includes frequent oversize trucks, will be reduced to a single lane during construction for crossing the structure. To accommodate the work zone, warning signs need to be provided at the top of each slope and traffic control is needed on each approach adjacent to the bridge. Additionally, AT was concerned about the potential for icing on the Dunvegan Bridge. As part of the bridge rehabilitation contract, AT reviewed a range of alternative winter countermeasures including: Road Weather Information Systems (RWIS) / video cameras, Dynamic Message Signs (DMS) and Fixed Automated Anti-icing Spray Technology (FAAST). The countermeasures were evaluated in terms of overall benefit and their ability to facilitate safe travel during adverse winter conditions in addition to potential improvements in maintenance efficiency, productivity and reductions in environmental impacts. An on-site RWIS activated Traveller Information System involving DMS and video cameras was ultimately selected for deployment at the site. To reduce the overall costs, installation of four permanent portable DMS will be accelerated such that they can be used during the term of the two-year construction project. The same DMS signs will be available and appropriately configured at the outset allowing them to be used by AT operations staff in the future for a variety of traffic management activities. When the DMS are used in conjunction with the proposed on site advanced RWIS and video cameras, the integrated ITS system will be employed to assist maintenance crews by notifying them automatically of pending icing conditions allowing them to validate conditions with the video cameras, mobilize their own forces and pass on relevant conditions to the en-route travelers, supporting general traveller information, traffic management and incident management at the site.

Conference Paper Details

Session title:
INNOVATIVE CONSTRUCTION/MAINTENANCE PRACTICES AND TECHNIQUES TO MINIMIZE COSTS AND TRAFFIC DISRUPTIONS
Author(s):
Mark F. Pinet
Topics:
Construction, Maintenance and operations
Year:
2008