This paper presents some research on the development of a uniform procedure for determining work zone speed limits in Missouri State, USA. The research approach included: (1) a literature review; (2) interviews with state highway engineers, to discuss current work zone speed limit procedures and guidelines; (3) collection of data on vehicle speeds, traffic accidents and traffic conflicts in work zones; and (4) interviews with motorists, to determine their attitudes to work zone speed limits. The procedure for determining work zone speed limits has the following steps: (1) determine the existing speed limit; (2) determine the relevant work zone conditions; (3) determine which factors for the appropriate for the appropriate condition apply to the specific site; and (4) select the work zone speed limit. Engineers, responsible for a work zone, should monitor its conditions, to ensure that its displayed speed limit is suitable for the actual conditions at any given time. The procedure can be applied by: (1) a design engineer, working from the construction and traffic plans for the work zone; or (2) by a field engineer responsible for operating the work zone.
Samenvatting