Evaluation of Channelizing Devices for Work Zones: Type II Barricades and Chevron Panels

About the report:

The objectives of this research were (1) to evaluate the 4-in. (10.2-cm) and 6-in. (15.2-cm) wide alternating diagonal stripes on barricade rails less than 3 ft. (0.92-m) long, and (2) to select the most effective chevron panel. A secondary objective was to investigate minimum sight distance requirements for work zone lane closures. These objectives were accomplished by (1) conducting field tests on the channelizing devices using the position of lane changing as the measure of performance and (2) conducting observer evaluations to obtain detection and legibility distances and preferences for various channelizing devices and taper arrays. It was found that the 6-in. (15.2-cm) wide stripes barricade rails less than 3 ft. (0.92 m) long were more than the 4-in. (10.2-cm) wide stripes. A chevron (18 in. x 24 in. [0.46 m x 0.61 m]) with a black arrow was more effective than a chevron with a white arrow. Overall, the large chevron (24 in. x 30 in. [0.61 m x 0.77m]) with a black arrow and 80-ft. (24.2-m) spacing was the most effective chevron panel. The chevron w black arrow and 40-ft. (12.2-m) taper spacing was rated second overall effectiveness. A minimum desirable sight distance of 1,500 ft. (457.5 m) and a minimum allowable sight distance of 1,000 ft. (305 m) were suggested for work zone lane closures.

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