FREEVAL-PA Additional Training Modules Announcement

PennDOT’s Bureau of Maintenance and Operations (BOMO) is pleased to announce the recent development and release of two new training modules to the FREEVAL-PA website. These modules were developed based on constructive feedback and suggestions provided by participants whom have been using FREEVAL-PA in evaluating proposed work zones for safety and mobility. The two modules include: (1) Module 6 provides a Step-by-Step process on how to perform a FREEVAL-PA evaluation. In addition to this module there is also a walk through demonstration. (2)Module 7 provides detailed discussion on how to Calibrate your FREEVAL-PA evaluation. In addition to this module there is also two walk through demonstrations. The new trainings can be found at: http://www.dot.state.pa.us/Portal%20Information/Traffic%20Signal%20Portal/Courses.html Questions regarding access or use of these modules may be forwarded to Brian Crossley (bcrossley@pa.gov) or Daniel Farley (dfarley@pa.gov).

FREEVAL-PA Assessment Tool (SOL #494-21-06)

FREEVAL-PA Assessment Tool (SOL #494-21-06) provides a simplified simple and accurate way of evaluating road user delays and queuing due to work zone restrictions on limited access highways. FREEVAL-PA uses the latest version of the Highway Capacity Manual 6th edition and provides simulation and modeling capabilities for maintenance, construction, and permit projects.

Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) Assistance Request Updates (SOL #494-21-05)

The Bureau of Maintenance and Operations (BOMO) recently updated the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) Assistance Request Updates (SOL #494-21-05). These policy revisions will create a clear and streamlined path for authorization, coordination, and payment of PSP assistance in Temporary Traffic Control Work Zones along Department roadways.

Temporary Traffic Control Safety Training Course Tier 1 (Field) - Training

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation has established a Temporary Traffic Control Safety Training Program (TTCSTP) to improve safety of both workers and the traveling public while maintaining mobility within Pennsylvania’s work zones. With a multitude of agencies and organizations involved with Temporary Traffic Control (TTC) throughout the Commonwealth, it is critical that a comprehensive training program be followed to ensure a safe, efficient, and consistent work zone environment for workers and the traveling public. This course is designed to provide personnel involved with the installation, modification, and removal of temporary traffic control devices with the fundamental skills and knowledge to safely perform their job in any type of work zone.

Publication 213 - 2021 Update (SOL 494-20-07)

The 2021 edition of Publication 213 revises policies and procedures for Temporary Traffic Control (TTC) and clarifies details from the 2009 Edition of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). This update also incorporates recommendations from a Publication 213 Working Group.

Temporary Traffic Control Quality Assurance Evaluation Form (SOL 494-20-05)

This Strike-off Letter (SOL) introduces an updated Temporary Traffic Control (TTC) Quality Assurance (QA) Evaluation form (M-7002) and Reference Guide for all personnel that conduct TTC QA evaluations. The form was developed based on observations from QA field staff and incorporates feedback from the Bureau of Maintenance and Operations (BOMO), the Operations and Performance Office (OPO), and both District and County staff.

Temporary Traffic Control Zone (Work Zone) Regulatory Speed Limit Policy (SOL 494-20-02) - February 20, 2020

This Strike-off Letter (SOL) establishes a Temporary Traffic Control Zone (work zone) Regulatory Speed Limit Policy for evaluating regulatory speed limit reductions within work zones on state roadways. While all work zones should be designed to accommodate the existing posted regulatory speed limit whenever possible, documented justification is required when a regulatory speed limit reduction is being considered. This SOL also requires completion of Traffic Engineering Form 162 - Temporary Traffic Control Zone Regulatory Speed Limit Reduction Evaluation (TE-162) for all regulatory speed limit reduction requests on utility projects, highway occupancy permit (HOP) projects, and local jurisdiction construction or maintenance projects impacting a state highway. Additionally, all work zones with a reduced regulatory speed limit that are being considered for use in the Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement (AWZSE) program will require prior completion and approval of the TE-162.