In this follow-up study, researchers checked the effectiveness of revised specifications for tightening anchor rods on sign and signal support poles. The revised specifications will ensure correct tightening procedures, which will result in better installations and maintenance.
Continue reading Evaluating Improved Specifications for Retightening Anchor Rods on Support Poles
Affordable Lane-Departure Warning System is on the Road to Market Readiness
This article was originally published in Catalyst, November 2021.
With the improvements made to their lane-departure warning system, U of M researchers are one step closer to preventing highway crashes and deaths. In a recent project, the research team enhanced its lane-departure warning system, which uses standard GPS data rather than expensive cameras or maps—moving toward an affordable, market-ready product to warn drivers about dangerous lane drift due to drowsiness or inattention.
Continue reading Affordable Lane-Departure Warning System is on the Road to Market Readiness
Researchers Study Impact of Transitways on Nearby Roads, Park-and-Ride Choices
This article was originally published in Catalyst, November 2021.
How does a transitway affect automobile traffic on nearby roadways? What factors influence which park-and-ride facilities people choose? These two questions were the focus of a recent two-part project by U of M researchers.
Continue reading Researchers Study Impact of Transitways on Nearby Roads, Park-and-Ride Choices
New Approach Helps Estimate COVID Exposure Risk for Trail Users
This article was originally published in Catalyst, November 2021.
As gyms and indoor health facilities closed during the beginning of the pandemic, people flocked to trails and parks, creating both opportunities and concerns for public health and land managers. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended a six-foot distance between people (even outdoors), but little was known about compliance with these recommendations.
Continue reading New Approach Helps Estimate COVID Exposure Risk for Trail Users
Using Noise Barriers and Snow Fencing to Capture Solar Energy
During the past decade, MnDOT has been developing solar projects and actively pursuing cost-effective energy-efficiency measures. Among the potentially effective innovations the agency has considered is adding solar panels to noise barriers and snow fences, transforming these single-function installations to multifunction installations. The electricity generated from this practice could offset installation costs and eventually generate revenue for other purposes.
Continue reading Using Noise Barriers and Snow Fencing to Capture Solar Energy
New Resource for Manhole and Catch Basin Installation
Finding resources that address manhole and catch basin issues occurring in Minnesota can be challenging. In a recent project, researchers surveyed 83 municipalities and interviewed other engineers and product representatives to gather data about manhole and catch basin installation and maintenance practices. The resulting report provides current information for municipal engineers about these essential installations.
Continue reading New Resource for Manhole and Catch Basin Installation
RTMC’s Road Weather Alerts Finalist for Minnesota Tech Award
The Regional Transportation Management Center’s highway weather alert project is a finalist for the Minnesota Technology Association 2021 Tekne Awards in the Digital Transformation category.
Continue reading RTMC’s Road Weather Alerts Finalist for Minnesota Tech Award
Ultrasonic Devices Deter Bats During Bridge Repair
Researchers tested ultrasonic bat deterrence devices at two MnDOT bridges, tracking bat activity with acoustic echolocation recorders and field inspections. Deterrence devices used in short- and long-term trials dramatically reduced bat activity at bridge site. Analysis showed that bats return promptly when devices are turned off.
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New Project: Advancing Equity in Accessibility and Travel Experiences: The Role of Gender and Identity
In the early 1990s, Minnesota became the first state in the nation to prohibit discrimination based on a person’s sexual orientation and gender identity. Yet the state continues to use male-female categories when investigating the role of gender in transportation issues such as travel behavior and transportation accessibility. Since a person’s identity can have a significant influence on their own and others’ behavior and experiences, excluding gender diversity in this type of transportation research could result in an incomplete understanding of the issues and perceptions about quality of life.
Continue reading New Project: Advancing Equity in Accessibility and Travel Experiences: The Role of Gender and Identity
New Project: Evaluation of Corrugated HDPE Pipes Manufactured with Recycled Content
Historically, federal regulations have required that MnDOT use pipes made with all-new materials in various applications, such as redirecting stormwater under roadways. However, recent changes to these regulations have made it possible for the agency to also consider pipes made with recycled materials, which could provide MnDOT with more options when choosing products for future projects.
Continue reading New Project: Evaluation of Corrugated HDPE Pipes Manufactured with Recycled Content
Crossroads 