Route 65 Safety Improvements
MoDOT Southwest District | Taney and Christian Counties, Missouri
The 16.2 mile Route 65 corridor connects Springfield and Branson, Missouri. Steep roadway grades and rock bluffs on the roadside contributed to safety concerns for motorists traveling this stretch of highway. To address these concerns, MoDOT selected TREKK to perform a safety study and implement several proposed solutions.
For the safety study, TREKK evaluated existing conditions, performed a crash analysis and computed a benefit-cost ratio to develop recommendations along the corridor. The existing conditions analysis involved collecting traffic counts and speed data at more than 20 locations along the section of roadway. We also investigated crash reports to find patterns and identify high crash areas.
Our survey team used mobile LiDAR to safely obtain an accurate survey of the pavement and roadside, with supplemental traditional survey used in areas of heavy brush. We used our sUAS drone system to evaluate the steep slope and rock bluffs. The sUAS’ flexibility allowed for sideways maneuverability to capture the crevasses, culverts, ditches, drainage issues and possible overhang of the existing topography. This highly detailed survey data helped us identify the geometric characteristics of the slope.
Using the study data, we compiled a list of potential solutions for each of the high crash areas to determine how the individual solutions will improve the number of crashes. We also recommended safety improvements along the corridor based on how each solution performed in the benefit-cost ratio.
Based on those recommendations, TREKK developed final plans for the construction of several higher priority improvements along the corridor. Specific enhancements were applied to provide the most safety benefits, including climbing lanes, extension of a right turn lane, median guard cable, radar-activated signs, acceleration and deceleration lanes and superelevation correction. As more funding is applied to the corridor, TREKK is designing additional safety projects to implement along Route 65.
