Why did WSDOT install additional cable median barrier on I-5 in Marysville?
In 2005 drivers raised significant concerns about the number of median crossover collisions on I-5 in Marysville. As a result, WSDOT conducted a comprehensive review of traffic safety on I-5 through Marysville in 2005.
After thoroughly examining collision data, WSDOT engineers found that cable barrier on I-5 in Marysville is catching 92.4 percent of errant vehicles that hit the barrier, which is somewhat lower than the 95 percent average for performance of cable barrier on highway segments elsewhere in the state. The engineers also discovered that the majority of the Marysville collisions involved southbound sedans bottoming out in the ditch, nudging beneath the cable barrier, then lifting the barrier and continuing across the median.
To enhance safety, WSDOT reduced speed limits from 70 mph to 60 mph on the most congested part of I-5 through Marysville in June 2005. In addition, Peterson Brothers Construction has been hired to install a second run of cable median barrier. WSDOT engineers believe that the lower speed limit and placing cable median barrier on both sides of the median ditch will fix the problem.
Why did WSDOT choose not to install concrete barrier on I-5 in Marysville?
WSDOT engineers thoroughly assessed I-5 through Marysville and considered installing concrete barrier, guardrail, and cable barrier in the median. While all three types of barrier would effectively stop vehicles from crossing into oncoming traffic, the guardrail and concrete barrier would likely increase the number and severity of crashes in this location because they are more rigid. Cable median barrier would reduce the risk of serious injury to people in vehicles that hit the barrier and would reduce the risk that additional vehicles would be involved in the collisions. As a result, WSDOT engineers determined that cable median barrier would be the best choice to enhance safety for drivers in this location.
Project Area
Crews installed a second run of cable barrier in the median of I-5 between SR 528 and the Stillaguamish River.
What is the project timeline?
- May 2006 - WSDOT awarded the project to the most competitive bidder, Peterson Brothers Construction.
- August 2006 - Crews began work
- Winter 2006 - Project complete
Financial Information
How can I get more information?
Contact:
Project Engineer Amir Ahmadi
9029 El Capitan Way
Everett, WA 98208-3637
Phone: (425) 225-8700
E-mail: Ahmadi@wsdot.wa.gov
or
Public Information Officer Travis Phelps
15700 Dayton Avenue North
PO Box 330310 MS: 103
Seattle, WA 98133-9710
Phone: (206) 440-4470
E-mail: PhelpsT@wsdot.wa.gov