New ICT-IDOT reports and projects

ICT is pleased to announce the publication of reports for the following IDOT-sponsored projects:

“R27-120: Evaluating All-Weather Pavement Marking in Illinois — Volume 2”
This project examines retroreflectivity, an object’s ability to reflect light, of two pavement-marking tapes under three conditions: dry, wet-recovery and continuously wetted. The research aims to enhance decision-making on the selection of pavement-marking tapes to increase safety, especially for wet and dark conditions.

“R27-127: Evaluation of Adaptive Signal Control Technology”
The main objective of this research is to examine adaptive signal control technology’s, coordinated traffic signals based on traffic volume, impact on traffic safety and operational efficiency along Neil Street in Champaign, Illinois. This project presents findings on ASCT performance during heavy traffic from six Neil Street intersections and heavy traffic related to special events as well as provides recommendations to improve the ASCT system.

“R27-127: Evaluation of Adaptive Signal Control Technology — Systems Engineering (SE) Document and ASCT-Selection Method”
In this project, researchers provide an overview on the process of acquiring ASCT and give an example of the systems engineering document needed to purchase an adaptive system. The example includes how to prepare the document, develop selection criteria and prepare a bid for procurement.

“R27-174: Methodology for Evaluation of Seal-Coated, Gravel and Dirt Roads”
This study investigates current practices for evaluating unpaved roads and establishes best practices. Researchers evaluated several unpaved roads using methods designed to measure surface conditions, including using cellphone apps to assess roughness conditions.

ICT is also excited to announce the start of new IDOT-sponsored projects:

“R27-193-5: Review of Improved Subgrade and Stabilized Subbases to Evaluate Performance of Concrete”
This study evaluates the use of improved subgrade and subbase under concrete pavements. In this project, researchers hope to improve current pavement-design practices and increase pavement performance and reliability while reducing cost.

“R27-203: Truck Platooning on Illinois Pavements”
Here researchers seek to optimize autonomous and connected truck platoon — a group or convoy of connected trucks — designs to increase fuel efficiency and economic benefits while minimizing pavement damage.

“R27-205: Development of Bridge Load Testing Program for Load Rating of Concrete Bridges”
The main objective of this research is to provide a new tool to assess load-carrying capacity of older bridges, which will decrease economic losses resulting from unnecessary closure, retrofit or replacement.