This paper presents an evaluation of the use of converging chevron pavement markings in an attempt to reduce speeds on freeway-to-freeway connectorramps. In this study, a converging chevron marking was designed and implemented on a freeway-to-freeway connector ramp in El Paso, Texas. Speed measurements were conducted at the study site in three study periods: before the implementation of chevron markings, soon after the implementation, and late-after the implementation of chevron markings. Speed measurementswere taken upstream of the curve, at the start of the curve, and in the middle of the curve of the connector ramp. A detailed before after analysis of the speed data was conducted using vehicle classification, light conditions, and location along the curve. From the analysis results, it was found that chevron markings appeared to reduce speeds where the markings were in place, though the reduction in the average speeds varied based on vehicle class and curve location. Maximum reduction was observed at the upstream location of the curve with about a 4 mile per hour (mph) reduction observed for heavy trucks.
Abstract