Downtown Austin Case Study Shows Effective Traffic Control Strategies

When planning an infrastructure project in downtown Austin, adhering to all regulatory requirements can be a headache. A new case study by TrafCon Services outlines key considerations such as traffic control plans, stakeholder coordination, and the use of technology, offering valuable insights into managing these aspects effectively.

Project Overview

The case study focuses on the replacement of a large oak tree in a private courtyard in downtown Austin. The project required temporarily closing multiple lanes of traffic to accommodate a crane and other construction equipment. Negotiations with the city council were necessary regarding construction hours, project duration, and the provision of the required space.

Traffic Control Plans

To ensure the project’s success, a comprehensive traffic control plan was developed. This plan included a detailed analysis of current traffic conditions, impact assessments, and the strategic placement of signage, barricades, and barriers. Regulatory compliance was maintained by securing the necessary permits and approvals from local, state, and federal authorities.

Collaboration & Coordination

In addition to managing the traffic control plan, TrafCon Services also collaborated with key partners including Rand Construction, who handled the project’s execution, and Enco Consulting, a civil engineering firm. Coordination with the City of Austin Right of Way Management Approval Network (ROWMAN) was essential to secure temporary traffic control plan approvals, with CapMetro to temporarily close the bus lane, and with the Signals Department to manage traffic signal adjustments.

The Use Of Technology

For enhanced precision in planning, AutoCAD was utilized, an innovative digital tool that assists in creating high-quality plans that are printable on 11x17 paper, drawn to scale, and easily legible. These plans adhered to the Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (TMUTCD) and the City of Austin transportation criteria manual, ensuring compliance with all relevant standards.

As a result, the traffic control project for the oak tree replacement, initially delayed due to unforeseen permit conflicts, was rescheduled and completed on time through effective negotiation and careful planning.

This content is provided in partnership with TrafCon Services and is intended for informational purposes only. The views, opinions, and advice expressed in this article are solely those of TrafCon Services and do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of any other individual, organization, or entity.

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