Assessment of the Oklahoma DOT Policy on Retroreflective Sheetings

Nighttime visibility of traffic signs is accomplished through the use of retroreflective sheetings on the sign face.  When illuminated by the vehicle's headlamps, signs appear bright in proportion to their ability to reflect the incident illumination back toward the driver.  Currently, ODOT policy requires the use of type III-A sheeting on all red and yellow signs, and type-IIA on all other signs.  The objective of this research is to evaluate ODOT's policy on use of retroreflective sheeting products and to recommend changes, if warranted,  based on driver visibility needs, durability of sheeting materials, and life-cycle cost.

Sponsors: Oklahoma Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration

Evaluation of Traffic Control Devices at Construction Work Zones

Highway construction work zones pose unique safety problems to the traveling public because of the unexpected and unusual situations present.  Visibility of traffic control devices is more critical at nighttime than during daytime because driver's reliance on these devices for warning, regulation and guidance.  The overall objective of this study is to evaluate the relative adequacy of different retroreflective products when used on traffic control devices (signs, channelizing devices, vertical panels, barricades, etc.) at construction work zones.  Evaluation criteria will include driver visibility needs for detection and recognition of traffic control devices, durability, and economics.  Special consideration will be given to the visibility needs of elderly drivers.

Sponsors: Oklahoma Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration

Investigation of the Application of GPS and GIS for the Creation and Management of Highway Signage Inventories: Stephens County, Oklahoma

A pilot study utilizing Global Positioning Systems (GPs) to accurately locate Oklahoma Department of Transportation (OK-DOT) signs throughout Stephens County, Oklahoma. A preliminary Geographic Information System (GIs) database will be constructed to allow OK-DOT engineers and managers to determine the feasibility of conducting such project on a statewide basis.

Sponsors: Oklahoma Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration

County Road Guidelines Manuals

County roads typically have low traffic volumes and do not require adherence to the more stringent design standards set for major state highways.  Development of design standards applicable to low-volume roads is the focus of this project.  Safety, construction and maintenance costs are some of the factors to be considered.

Sponsors: Oklahoma Department of Transportation

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