| Access Management
Access management is a process that involves thoughtful
planning and design to determine the location and number of interchanges,
driveways and other access points. Implementation of a successful
access management plan can:
| • |
Reduce crashes by as much as
50 percent |
| • |
Increase capacity by 23-45 percent |
| • |
Reduce travel time and delay
by 40-60 percent |
| • |
Decrease fuel consumption
by 35 percent |
| • |
Extend the life of the highway |
| • |
Reduce vehicular emissions |
| • |
Reduce transportation costs |
| • |
Promote consistent treatment
of applicants for access permits |
| • |
Protect investment in abutting
property |
There are many benefits to applying access management
principles in the reconstruction of I-70, but there will certainly
be costs, as well. In order to create a safe environment for all
travelers, the basic design of some interchanges and access to facilities
just off the interstate will likely change. What’s important
to understand is that access management does NOT mean access elimination.
How will Access Management issues be addressed?
Through the second tier studies, MoDOT and its consultants
will work closely with area business owners and residents to determine
the best way to address access issues. This cooperative effort will
strike a balance between keeping travel on I-70 and through the
interchange safe and efficient, and providing access to facilities
near the interstate.
MoDOT and FHWA policies will guide decisions about
access management. These policies establish criteria for interchange
spacing and the location of driveways and outer roads near exit
ramps. As it concerns I-70:
| • |
Existing interchanges
will likely continue in their current locations; |
| • |
Any new or relocated
interchanges should provide a two-mile spacing minimum from
the closest existing interchange in urban areas, and five-mile
spacing in rural areas; |
| • |
Spacing of about a quarter mile
should be provided from the end of the off-ramp to the first
left turn (onto a private driveway, median opening or intersection
with a public road); and |
| • |
Spacing of about
750 feet should be provided from the end of the off-ramp to
the first right turn (onto a private driveway or public road). |
Application of access management measures will
maintain smooth traffic flow as vehicles enter and exit the highway
– and provide a safer driving environment once off the highway.
|
