Engineering Commons^™

Loads On Box Culverts Under High Embankments, Harry F. Girdler

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

The structural design of culverts requires a reliable estimate of the earth pressures which will come to bear on the structure during and after construction of the embankment. The actual bearing pressure at a given time and under various conditions of differential settlement may be greater or less than the deadload of the fill or embankment over the structure. This report describes the instrumentation and construction of three box culverts designed by the imperfect trench method. A total of 42 Carlson earth pressure cells were installed in conjunction with strain gages and settlement measuring devices, including inverted settlement plates and …

Relationships Between Roadway Geometrics And Accidents (An Analysis Of Kentucky Records), Kenneth R. Agent

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

Statewide average and critical rates of accidents were determined from 1970-1972 Kentucky accident records for each type of rural highway. Four-lane undivided highways had the highest average accident rate; parkways (toll roads) had the lowest rate. The severity of accidents was related to types of accidents, highways, and traffic control and to safety belt usage. Accidents involving pedestrians were the most severe types; single-vehicle accidents ranked next highest in severity. Excluding accidents at railroad crossings, accidents which occurred on curves had the highest severity index. The use of safety belts was associated with reduced severity.

Raised Pavement Markers As A Traffic Control Measure At Lane Drops [No. 418], Jerry G. Pigman, Kenneth R. Agent

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

Raised pavement markers are an effective means of reducing erratic movements at lane-drop locations, particularly under nighttime driving conditions. The cost of raised pavement markers and their installation is nominal (approximately $150 per lane-drop location). It is recommended that raised pavement markers be installed at other lane-drop locations. Markers installed at locations described in this study have not been in place for a sufficient time to determine their durability; however, reports from other states indicate their durability is sufficient to render them economical. If raised pavement markers are installed routinely, steps should be taken to insure they are not damaged …

Raised Pavement Markers As A Traffic Control Measure At Lane Drops [No. 384], Jerry G. Pigman, Kenneth R. Agent

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

Raised pavement markers are an effective means of reducing erratic movements at lane-drop locations, particularly under nighttime driving conditions. The cost of raised pavement markers and their installation is nominal ($150 per location). It is recommended that raised pavement markers be installed at other lane-drop locations. Markers installed at locations described in this study have not been in place for a sufficient time to determine their durability; however, reports from other states indicate their durability is sufficient to render them economical. If raised pavement markers are installed routinely, steps should be taken to insure they are not damaged by snowplow …

Porous Sand-Asphalt Mixtures, James H. Havens

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

Size is relative. Densely graded sand-asphalts are relatively similar to conventional, bituminous concretes. Porous sand-asphalts possess the same attributes as other porous, bituminous mixtures. Surely, sand-asphalt mixtures, can be designed to be as porous as the so-called, open-graded plantmix seals. Particle shape and texture otherwise define skid-resistance. Stability remains an assurance against scaling. Stability is assured by maximum utilization of filler-bitumen ratio and the stiffness of asphalt cement.

Recommendations For Implementation Of Uniform Project Identification From The Upi Task Force, Herbert F. Southgate

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

For years project identifications have been based upon county, section, subsection, and phase of work. While this system worked well in the beginning, overlay constructions, widening efforts, etc. have caused overlapping of projects to the point that identification of a given portion of a highway has become very difficult. Furthermore, each of the many separate phases of work has its own project number and may not be so readily identifiable as the succeeding work phase.

Management came to realize there was a need for a numbering identification system that would be readily understandable. The direct result was the development of …

The Creep Response Of Cohesive Soils: A Method Of Design Using Rheological Strength Parameters, David L. Allen

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

The creep response of four remolded soils and undisturbed soils from two landslide sites is presented. A method for obtaining the yield stress of soil from creep test data is presented and discussed. "Viscosity diagrams", showing the location of the yield stress is approximately 50 percent of peak stress, were obtained from conventional triaxial tests. There is more scatter in data from undisturbed soils than in data from remolded soils. Mohr's failure envelopes, constructed from yield stress data, give internal friction angles having values from approximately five to ten degrees. Strength data, calculated indirectly from peak relaxation modulus, are also …

Auto-Utility Trailer Combinations On Rural Highways In Kentucky, Bruce S. Siria, Robert C. Deen

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

An analysis of accident records indicated that auto-utility trailer (A-UT) combinations are involved in a disproportionately high number of traffic mishaps. Locations which have a history of accidents involving A-UT vehicles indicated that differential crosswinds and unanticipated driving maneuvers contribute to the driver's loss of control. A-UT combinations contributed to the fatigue loss in pavement life approximately 50 percent as much as single-unit, two-axle, six-tire trucks (per vehicle). In general, this vehicle type constituted approximately three percent of the total traffic stream. Analysis of speed distributions indicated an equivalency factor for A-UT combinations equal to that for trucks for similar …

Traffic Control For Maintenance On High-Speed Highways, William M. Seymour, Robert C. Deen, James H. Havens

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

Observations were first made at lane closures on interstate highways where yellow warning signs were erected routinely in conjunction with contract work. Later data provided direct comparison between new yellow and new orange signs. One sign scheme was used throughout the study. Driver obedience improved when new signs of either color were used; this finding implies that signs should always be maintained in good condition. Orange signs were slightly more effective than yellow signs in reducing traffic conflicts and merges near the traffic cones. Results of the study tend to support the adoption of orange as the standard color for …

Evaluation Of The Traffic Noise Prediction Procedure, Kenneth R. Agent, Charles V. Zegeer

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

Approximately 270 noise-level recordings were obtained at 39 highway sites and compared with the noise-level predictions obtained by the procedure outlined in NCHRP Report 117. The measured noise levels were computed in terms of the A-weighted L₁₀ value (level exceeded 10 percent of time) and then compared to the predicted noise levels. A significant discrepancy was found between predicted and measured noise levels; generally, the predicted values exceeded the measured values. Average error per location was 4.8 dBA; the maximum error was 13 dBA. A nomograph was devised to correct the predicted value; this nomograph involves observer-to-roadway distances, truck …

Traffic Accident Reporting In Kentucky, Donald R. Herd

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

This study reviews the organizational structure and processing procedures used in accident surveillance. Consideration was given to the techniques that various state governmental agencies use in their analysis of accident reports and statistics. It was concluded that Kentucky should enact uniform accident reporting legislation. A standard form should be prescribed for use by law enforcement agencies in complying with the reporting requirement. The creation of an Accident Records Unit to receive, process, and statistically analyze the reports is recommended.

Accidents On Rural Interstate And Parkway Roads And Their Relation To Pavement Friction, Rolands L. Rizenbergs, James L. Burchett, Cass T. Napier

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

Friction measurements were made with a skid trailer at 70 mph (31 m/s) on 770 miles (1240 km) of rural, four-lane, controlled-access routes on the interstate and parkway systems in Kentucky. Each construction project was treated as a test section. Accident experience, friction measurements, and traffic volumes were obtained for each. Various relationships between wet-weather accidents and skid resistance were analyzed. The expression of accident occurrence which correlated best with skid and slip resistance was wet-weather accidents per 100 million vehicle miles. Accidents increased greatly as Skid Numbers (70 mph or 31 m/s) decreased from 27 ± 1. Analysis of …

Vehicle Noise Survey In Kentucky, Kenneth R. Agent, Rolands L. Rizenbergs

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

Individual noise measurements were obtained on 10,500 motor vehicles operating on Kentucky highways. The roadways were selected to represent varied geometric and environmental conditions and posted speed limits. Percentages of automobiles and trucks exceeding a given level of noise were determined. As expected, noise levels of trucks were significantly higher than for automobiles, and larger trucks produced higher noise levels than smaller trucks. For any vehicle type, noise increased with an increase in speed limit.

In Situ Shear Strength Parameters By Dutch Cone Penetration Tests, C. Thomas Gorman, Tommy C. Hopkins, Vincent P. Drnevich

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

Dutch cone penetration testing was performed and undisturbed samples were collected at four Kentucky highway sites. Shear strength, as determined by consolidated, undrained triaxial testing of the undisturbed samples, was correlated with friction resistance as measured by the Dutch friction cone. Statistical analysis of all data showed shear strength to be about 80 percent of friction resistance. Recommendations for the use of the Dutch cone penetration test in Kentucky soils were also made.

Design Guide For Bituminous Concrete Pavement Structures, James H. Havens, Robert C. Deen, Herbert F. Southgate

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

The proposed design guide includes procedures for estimating design EAL's, CBR, modulus of the asphaltic concrete, and an array of tables and graphs to determine pavement and layer thicknesses.

Stolvac: A Traffic Data System, Donald R. Herd

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

The purpose of this study was to design a traffic data inventory system and to develop operating procedures for that system. This report outlines the general design of such a system that will be called STOLVAC (acronym for Speed, Turning movements, Origin destination, Loadometer, Volume, Accident, and Classification data). The report also presents recommendations relating to the development and maintenance of STOLVAC. Staging of the system development is recommended.

Stability Analysis Of Slide At Milepost 152.7, I 64, Carter County, Harry F. Girdler, Tommy C. Hopkins

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

A visual inspection of a slide near Milepost 153 on I 64 was made April 11, 1972, and reported in a memorandum prepared by B. H. Banks on April 12, 1972. The Division of Research made recommendations for correcting this situation in a memorandum to A. R. Romine on June 30, 1972. These recommendations were based on a limited field investigation and a stability analysis of a proposed berm to be located near Station 3483+00. In a letter dated August 18, 1972, Mr. A. J. Horner of FHWA requested borings be made at the site to establish rock depth and …

Jacksonville Urban Area Transportation Study: Annual Certification And Unified Work Program For The Jacksonville Urban Area, Jacksonville Area Planning Board

Arthur N. Sollee, Sr. Textual Materials

Document contains committee activities, surveillance findings, short range multi-modal implementation program, unified work program and suggested funding sources.

Tartan Surfacing For An Equestrian Overpass, Donald C. Newberry Jr.

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

The location of I 64 in Jefferson County traverses Seneca Park, noted for its scenic beauty and superior recreational facilities. A bridle path in Seneca Park necessitated construction of an overpass for equine traffic. A non-slip and sound-deadening, resilient surface was essential for aesthetics and safety. Tartan, a rubbery mat developed primarily for race course and paddock surfaces, was specified and installed on the overpass.

High-Intensity Reflective Materials For Signs, Rolands L. Rizenbergs

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

Field observations and laboratory tests and evaluations were conducted on High-Intensity and Engineering grade materials (Scotchlite), manufactured by the Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company, and were compared in regard to reflectivity, durability, and cost.

The High-Intensity type materials were found to have outstanding performance characteristics in comparison to Engineering Grade materials. The material significantly enhances sign legibility under low-beam illumination, and accelerated weathering tests showed superior durability.

Characteristics And Models Of Outdoor Recreational Travel, Jerry G. Pigman, John A. Deacon

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

The purpose of this investigation was to examine the characteristics of outdoor recreational travel and to evaluate models of travel flow from population centers throughout the United States to outdoor recreational areas in Kentucky. Data were obtained by means of a license-plate, origin-destination survey at 160 sites within 42 recreational areas and by means of a continuous vehicle counting program at eight of these sites.

Among those characteristics of outdoor recreational travel which were examined in more detail were vehicle occupancies, vehicle classifications, and trip-length distributions. Vehicle occupancy was found to depend on the type of recreational area, distance traveled, …

Engineering Geognosy Of The Western Coal Field, W. Mccann, Tommy C. Hopkins, Robert C. Deen

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

Engineering soils and geologic reports are invaluable tools for engineers, industrial leaders, community planners and administrators during preliminary stages of planning and site selection for construction projects. Such information can be used to great advantage by planners in making soil and geologic reconnaissance surveys, in organizing and checking field surveys, in correlating and predicting performances of soil and geologic materials, and in locating construction materials and resource deposits. Recognizing the need for this type of information, the Division of Research, Bureau of Highways, Kentucky Department of Transportation, has undertaken a study to report the engineering geognosy of Kentucky. The report …

Pavement Roughness, Measurement And Evaluation, Rolands L. Rizenbergs, James L. Burchett, Larry E. Davis

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

Vertical accelerations of a passenger in an automobile are automatically summed while traveling a section of road at 51.5 mph (23.0 m/s). A roughness index is obtained by dividing this sum by the time elapsed during the test. Continuity in measurements since 1957 has been preserved through correlations among successive vehicles involved and reference pavements.

In general, bituminous construction has yielded smoother-riding surfaces than concrete construction. The smoothness of concrete pavements, however, has improved on those projects where slip-form paving was used. Interstate and parkway (expressway) construction continues to yield smoother pavements than other major construction. The rate of increase …

Remedial Stability Analysis Of Unstable Eastern Approach Embankment, Bluegrass Parkway Bridges Over Chaplin River, Tommy C. Hopkins, S. M. Yoder

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

In a meeting held on March 7, 1973, the Division of Research was requested to perform a supplementary slope stability analysis of the unstable, eastern approach embankment and foundation located at the crossing of the Bluegrass Parkway over Chaplin River and extending between Stations 2317+14 and 2321+00. Previously (see referenced report), two remedial schemes had been considered for increasing the stability of the unstable soil mass to an acceptable level. Those included: 1) loading the toe area of the existing, eastern approach slope with a berm, including a sloping berm, and 2) unloading the upper portion of the eastern slope …

Vibratory Roller Evaluation, Donald C. Newberry Jr.

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

In a field evaluation of vibratory rollers, an end-result specification based on a statistical analysis of densities obtained on previous construction projects indicated 98 percent of laboratory density (Marshall) to be desired for Bituminous Concrete, Class I Base. The minimum average of 5 density tests was set at 96.4 percent. Conventional rollers, vibratory rollers, and combinations thereof were qualified on the basis of density-growth curves determined on one or more 1000-foot test sections. An overall average compaction of 97.8 percent of Marshall density was obtained on the Cumberland Parkway project. Similar controls initiated on the Green River Parkway project were …

A Survey Of Reflective Sheeting For Highway Signs, Rolands L. Rizenbergs

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

A questionnaire (see the APPENDIX) was sent to highway agencies in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico for the purpose of surveying state practices in regard to reflective sheeting purchase, usage specifications, testing, etc. The response was 100 percent and, thus, demonstrated a high degree of interest in the subject.

Responses to the questionnaire are tabulated on the attached tables. An attempt was made to report answers provided by the agencies without interpretation except in a few isolated cases where the necessafy information was available to properly relate the response to a given question. In a …

Stability Of A Side-Hill Embankment, Tommy C. Hopkins, Harry F. Girdler, Steve M. Yoder

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

The report submitted herein is a case history describing observations and in-depth analyses made at a highway site involving a massive, unstable side-hill embankment located on I-64 in Boyd County. The in-depth study was initiated in January 1973. The I-64 site was selected for study because it contained several design, construction and maintenance features as well as soil types that are typical of many highway embankments in Kentucky. Side-hill fill situations are common design problems and oftentimes have required extensive maintenance after construction. Major objectives of the study were to 1) determine the causes of instability of the I-64 embankment, …

Fatigue Analysis Of Central Bridge Deduced From Strain Gage Data And Probability Analysis, R. J. Bruner Iii

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

This report presents evaluations of the load history of the Central Bridge from both strain gage data and probability analysis. Estimation of remaining service life is made through fatigue criteria. Also included is a comparison (from strain gage data) of live load stresses carried by parallel eye bars. An appendix provides a user's manual for the computer program for probability-based analyses of load events and fatigue-life computations.

Establishment And Maintenance Of Roadside Plantings And Turf, Kenneth N. Franks

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

A series of experimental investigations initiated by the Kentucky Highway Department over a six-year period were designed for the purpose of studying the I adaptability, establishment, and maintenance of roadside plantings and turf, including the stabilization and management of roadside soils.

Experimental Installations Of Impact-Attenuating Devices, Jerry G. Pigman, William M. Seymour, Don L. Cornette

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

From a survey of the interstate system in Kentucky, 26 gore sites were found to be eligible for safety improvements. Energy absorbing barriers have been installed at five. Barriers are planned at 11 sites; seven sites have been contour graded; and three sites have been dismissed from consideration.

HI-DRO Cushions and Fitch Inertial Barriers were found to be effective crash cushions. HI-DRO Cushion maintenance costs per impact were less than those for Fitch Inertial Barriers; however, initial costs of materials and installation were higher. The HI-DRO Cushion is generally more adaptable to narrow and relatively short areas than either the …