The $4.6 million effort to improve safety and traffic flow on Interstate 64 over Afton Mountain is approaching its final construction and testing phases. Over the next several weeks, contractors will begin installing new dynamic message signs, traffic cameras and weather-detection devices along the interstate between mile markers 94 and 107. This work is part of the Active Traffic and Safety Management System (ATSMS) through Augusta, Nelson and Albemarle counties.
During the week of July 20-24, contractors are scheduled to begin installing infrastructure for Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) equipment. This includes sign foundations, fiber optic lines, and mounting poles for ITS devices. Once this work is complete, crews will begin installation of ITS equipment to include six Dynamic Message Signs, 10 traffic cameras and two weather/pavement monitoring stations.
During both of these phases, motorists can expect daytime shoulder closures on the interstate, Route 250 near the I-64 interchange at Afton, and Route 340 near the I-64 interchange in Waynesboro. All work is weather permitting.
The new ITS equipment is scheduled to be activated and undergo testing from August through November. Drivers will begin seeing test messages on the new Dynamic Message Signs, and will be able to access images from the new traffic cameras at 511Virginia.org.
The ATSMS system is designed to provide quicker and more accurate information about weather and traffic conditions along I-64 in the Afton Mountain area. The additional traffic cameras will allow complete surveillance of the interstate corridor by the Staunton Traffic Operations Center, which provides real-time information to drivers through the 511 Virginia system. Visibility detection sensors will improve the response and performance of the existing fog-light system. Dynamic Message Signs will advise motorists of changing weather and traffic conditions. All of these systems combine to allow drivers to make more informed decisions, with the goal of lowering crash rates and creating a safer roadway.
The Commonwealth Transportation Board awarded a $4.6 million contract to G4S Technology of Springfield to design and build the Active Traffic and Safety Management System (ATSMS). Construction began in early 2014. VDOT will be responsible for operating and maintaining the system.
Traffic alerts and traveler information can be obtained by dialing 511 and at 511Virginia.org. For other assistance call the VDOT Customer Service Center 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Citizens can dial 1-800-FOR- ROAD (1-800-367-7623) from anywhere in the state to report road hazards, ask transportation questions, or get information related to Virginia’s roads.
The Staunton District and Culpeper District Twitter feeds are at @VaDOTStaunton and @VaDOTCulpeper. VDOT can be followed on Facebook, Flickr, Twitter and YouTube. RSS feeds are also available for statewide information. The VDOT Web page is located at www.VirginiaDOT.org.
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Chris Graham
