County Engineer Throws the Book Away in Intersection Design and Lowers Cost 20%

by William J. Richardson, Jr., (M.ASCE), County Engr.; South Bend, Indiana,


Serial Information: Civil Engineering—ASCE, 1978, Vol. 48, Issue 1, Pg. 56-59


Document Type: Feature article

Abstract:

Article describes the innovative design of a highway intersection that was reconstructed to relieve traffic congestion. The nearest drainage outlet was 2800-ft away and was inadequate, so a system of drywells was installed. Drywells are used as catch basins and manholes. Storm water percolates into the soil instead of discharging into the drainage outlet. Pavement costs were reduced by the use of two-layer concrete: cheap layer covered by more expensive, high-quality wearing layer. Pavement is reinforced only in intersection; approaches are not reinforced, and joint slippage is prevented by skewed joints. Traffic signals replaced stop signs and are controlled by traffic detectors, which also count traffic.

Subject Headings: Traffic signals | Intersections | Highway and road design | Water discharge | Traffic congestion | Stormwater management | Joints

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