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Sloped End Treatment for a Raised Median

Question
State MN
Description Text

We are requesting guidance on the use of a sloped end treatment for concrete barrier installed on a raised median.

 

Attached is a PDF file containing all the geometric information you wanted. This file has 3 pages, showing different information.  Page one (35 MPH) and page two (50 MPH) are the locations we need recommendations for. Page three is the entire project. 

 

FYI - Curbs are vertical faced and 4 to 6 inches tall.



Permanent Concrete Barriers

End Treatments, Terminals, and Anchorages

Curbs

Date October 14, 2008
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Attachment 4dean_1.pdf
Response
Response
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Thanks for the layout drawings and median barrier drawings. Based on what I have seen, I have some recommendations.

 

  1. Given you installation speeds and median barrier type, we cannot recommend that you use a sloped concrete end terminal for the installations you have shown. Previous computer simulations of the sloped end treatment, as shown in NCHRP Report 358, found that the sloped end treatment for a 32" high barrier can cause overturn of the vehicle for impact speeds of 30 mph or greater. Both of your installations have designs speeds over 30 mph, so this is not likely to be a good alternative for you. In addition, used of the sloped end would have required removal of the median curb in front of the end treatment for approximately 65' in order to prevent interaction with the curb front affecting the terminal performance. This would have placed an significant gap between the end terminal and the median curb that I don't believe you would like. 
  2. One alternative option would be to install the available low height TL-2 barriers rather than your current 32" design. These systems have available sloped end terminals that have been tested to TL-2.We can help get you details on these systems if you would like them.
  3. The only other alternative that we have is to install a crash cushion on the end of the barrier. However, you would need to consult with the manufacturer with regards to there use with you median layout.

Date October 14, 2008
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