Route 62 to the I-77, Ohio
Delivering Safety Improvements to Ramps on Route 62 to the I-77 in Ohio
You may be interested in HFST >- Route 62 to the I-77, Ohio
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Summary
In an effort to enhance roadway safety, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) commissioned a scheme to apply High Friction Surface Treatment (HFST) on two ramps connecting Route 62 to the I-77 in Stark County. WJ Surface Treatments was selected by the prime contractor, Karvo Companies, to complete the project using their cost-effective safety solutions. Through the utilization of their advanced application technology, the HFST was installed by WJ within a four-day timeline and has improved skid resistance on these heavily trafficked ramps and will lead to a reduction in accident rates.
Improving Safety
The ramps on Route 62 to the I-77 have created challenges for drivers, particularly in wet or slick conditions due to their tight curves and steep slopes. As part of ODOT’s proactive safety initiative, the installation of HFST was proposed to increase the traction of the roadway and improve public safety. By applying HFST, the Department of Transport aimed to reduce skidding incidents and support safer journeys for motorists in these high-risk locations.
WJ Surface Treatments were selected thanks in part to their capability to carry out the project within a restricted timeframe, owing to their state-of-the-art, fully automated HFST truck. The technology used ensures a uniform and consistent treatment, helping maintain effective traction across the entire surface area of these ramps.
Meeting Challenges and Delivering Results
The tight radius and slope of the ramps presented the main challenges of the project. These factors required the crew to accurately apply the HFST, ensuring they met the high specifications required in all areas of the work to guarantee safety. The automated applicator equipment enabled the team to maintain this accuracy and consistency, reducing the likelihood of inconsistencies in friction levels, which are critical to ensuring the treatment’s effectiveness.
Despite the complexities, the project was completed on time from 16 to 20 September 2024. The success of the HFST application has been positively received, with both the prime contractor and ODOT expressing satisfaction with the quality and timeliness of the work.
Long-term Value for the Community
Beyond immediate safety benefits, the HFST application is expected to reduce the number of accidents on these ramps, lowering the associated costs for emergency services and contributing to overall road user safety. The treatment’s durability also means that when combined with the reduction in accident costs, it delivers a significant return on investment, supporting safer travel for all road users, while creating long-term value for Ohio’s residents and visitors.
Innovation in Road Safety
This project highlights WJ Surface Treatments’ ability to bring innovation and efficiency to road safety solutions. By using an automated HFST truck, WJ not only streamlined the application process but also improved the quality and uniformity of the surface treatment, setting a high standard for future HFST projects.