ROAD SAFETY AUDIT
Fuller Road at Sheridan Street and Fuller Road at I-291
Ramp/Veterans Memorial Bridge
City of Chicopee
April 2016
Prepared For:
MassDOT
On Behalf Of:
City of Chicopee
Prepared By:
CHA Consulting Inc.
101 Accord Park Drive
Norwell, MA 02061
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Table of Contents
Background .................................................................................................................................4
Project Data.................................................................................................................................4
Project Location Description .....................................................................................................6
Audit Observations and Potential Safety Enhancements........................................................8
Summary of Road Safety Audit...............................................................................................26
List of Appendices
Appendix A.
Appendix B.
Appendix C.
Appendix D.
Appendix E.
RSA Meeting Agenda
RSA Audit Team Contact List
Detailed Crash Data
Peak Hour Traffic Volumes
Road Safety Audit References
List of Figures
Figure 1.
Locus Map.............................................................................................................................. 5
List of Tables
Table 1.
Table 2.
Participating Audit Team Members ....................................................................................... 4
Potential Safety Enhancements Summary............................................................................ 26
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Background
The intersection of Fuller Road / Sheridan Street in Chicopee, Massachusetts is listed as a High Crash Location
for the years 2007-2013. The intersection of Fuller Rd and I-291 Ramp is also listed as High Crash Location for
the years 2007-2010. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) and the City of Chicopee
determined that a Road Safety Audit (RSA) for both intersections would be beneficial to the Fuller Road
Reconstruction project. The project is currently under design (MassDOT Project #604434) and is scheduled for
funding in 2018 on the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) list.
The purpose for this RSA is to identify existing safety deficiencies and potential safety improvements that could
be implemented as part of the Reconstruction and Related Work on Fuller Road project. Additionally, potential
short term low cost improvements are identified for consideration for implementation prior to the reconstruction
of the intersections. The location of the project area included in the RSA is depicted in Figure 1. –Locus Map.
Project Data
The audit team conducted a RSA for Sheridan St/Fuller Rd and I-291 Ramp/Fuller Rd on Thursday March 10,
2016. The RSA Agenda is included in Appendix A. Table 1 lists the audit team members and their affiliations.
Appendix B includes contact information for all team members.
Table 1. Participating Audit Team Members
Audit Team Members
Agency / Affiliation
John Mastera
MassDOT Safety
Laura Hanson
MassDOT District 2
Luke Hayes
MassDOT District 2
Trung Vo
MassDOT District 2
Steven Frederick
City of Chicopee Engineer
Mike Carra
City of Chicopee Highway
Mark Page
City of Chicopee Police Department
John Morgan
CHA Consulting
Debit Karki
CHA Consulting
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Traffic data was provided to the audit team prior the RSA, including crash data and collision diagrams based on
crash records from the City of Chicopee Police Department and MassDOT for the five year period of 2011 to 2015.
Crash records were provided for a total of 30 crashes at the intersection of Sheridan St and Fuller Rd. Of the 30
crashes reported, sixteen (16) were angle crashes, eleven (11) were rear end crashes, three (3) were head-on,
sideswipe and single vehicle crashes respectively. 74% of crashes involved property damage only and 23% of
crashes resulted in personal injuries. There were total of 13 crashes at the intersection of I-291 Ramp and Fuller
Rd. over the five year period. Of the 13 crashes, seven (7) were rear end crashes, three (3) were head-on crashes,
two (2) were angle crashes, and one (1) was single vehicle crash. None of the accidents involved fatalities. 69% of
crashes involved property damage only and 23% of crashes resulted in personal injuries. Appendix C provides the
detailed crash data for the project area.
Project Location and Description
The RSA focused on two intersections, Sheridan St/Fuller Rd and I-291 Ramp/Veteran’s Memorial Bridge/Fuller
Rd. The existing conditions at each of the locations is described below.
Sheridan Street @ Fuller Road
Fuller Road is a two-lane roadway classified as an Urban Minor Arterial under the jurisdiction of the City of
Chicopee. The posted speed limit for this section of Fuller Road is 30mph. Sheridan Street is a two-lane roadway
that is classified as an urban collector and falls under the City of Chicopee’s jurisdiction. The posted speed limit
of Sheridan Street is 25mph. However, from the MassDOT speed regulation database, the official speed limit of
Sheridan Street at this location is 35mph. Sheridan Street intersects Fuller Road to form a four-way signalized
intersection. Approaching the intersection from the east, Fuller Road is a two-lane roadway that is 32 feet wide
with a painted double yellow centerline. The approaching travel way consists of one 15.5-foot wide travel lane,
and permits left and right turns onto Sheridan Street and through traffic. Approaching the intersection from the
west, Fuller Road is a two-lane roadway that is 32 feet wide with a painted double yellow centerline. The
approaching travel way consists of one 15-foot wide travel lane, and permits left and right turns onto Sheridan
Street and through traffic. Approaching the intersection from the north, Sheridan Street is a three-lane roadway
that is 40 feet wide with a painted double yellow centerline. The approaching travel way consists of a 400’ long
left turn lane and a shared right/through lane. Approaching the intersection from the south, Sheridan Street is a
two-lane roadway that is 30 feet wide with a painted double yellow centerline. The approaching travel way consists
of one 16-foot wide travel lane, and permits left and right turns onto Sheridan Street and through traffic.
The intersection is operating as a pre-timed signal. The Fuller Road approaches operate concurrently as one phase
and the Sheridan Street approaches operate as the second phase. The intersection includes a crosswalk across the
Fuller Road west leg of the intersection, but does not include pedestrian signals. Wheelchair ramps are in poor
condition and are not ADA compliant. No emergency vehicle detection equipment is present at this intersection.
I-291 Ramps @ Veterans Memorial Bridge @ Fuller Road
Veterans Memorial Bridge is a four lane roadway that is classified by MassDOT as an urban minor arterial and
falls under the City of Chicopee’s jurisdiction. This bridge runs in the north-south direction between E. Main St
and Fuller Road. Sidewalks are provided on this Bridge, and parking is not permitted. The ramps to I-291, Veterans
Memorial Bridge, and Fuller Road converge to form a four-legged intersection. Approaching the intersection from
the east, Fuller Road is a four-lane roadway that is 50 feet wide with a painted double yellow centerline. The
approaching travel way consists of three 11-foot wide travel lanes. Approaching the intersection from the west,
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Fuller Road is a three-lane roadway that is 38 feet wide with a painted double yellow centerline. The approaching
travel way consists of two travel lanes. The left lane is 11 feet wide and only permits left turns onto Veterans
Memorial Bridge. The right lane is 12.5 feet wide and permits through traffic onto Fuller Road and right turns
onto the Interstate 291 ramps. Approaching the intersection from the north, the I-291 ramp is a four-lane roadway
that is 48 feet wide with a painted double yellow centerline. The approaching travel way consists of two 11-foot
wide travel lanes and one 10-foot left turn lane. Approaching the intersection from the south, Veterans Memorial
Bridge is a five-lane roadway that is 60 feet wide with a painted double yellow centerline. The approaching travel
way consists of 12-foot left turn lane, 11.5-foot thru travel lane and 12.5-foot right turn lane.
The intersection is operating as an actuated uncoordinated system with four phases. The first phase occurs when
Fuller Road eastbound and Fuller Road westbound approaches operate with leading left-turn phases. The second
phase occurs when Fuller Road eastbound and Fuller Road westbound lead expires and the left turns become
permitted along with and through traffic. The third phase occurs when southbound vehicles from I-291 ramps and
northbound vehicles from Veterans Memorial Bridge are permitted. The fourth phase occurs when the I-291 ramp
southbound traffic movement is no longer permitted, however the northbound Veterans Memorial Bridge traffic
remains permitted and left turns onto Fuller Road westbound receive a lagging protected phase.
As stated previously, the two intersections are currently under design (MassDOT Project #604434) as part of the
Fuller Road Corridor Reconstruction and Related Work. The timeline for implementation is approximately three
years out as the project is currently programmed in the 2018 funding year on the Transportation Improvement
Program (TIP) list.
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Audit Observations and Potential Safety Enhancements
During the RSA performed on March 10, 2016 the following safety issues were identified for the intersections of
Sheridan St/Fuller Rd and I-291 Ramp/Fuller Rd.
Sheridan Street/Fuller Road:
1. Signal Visibility
2. Signal Deficiencies
3. Bike and Pedestrian Accommodations
4. Lighting
5. Curb-cuts and Parking
6. Signage Deficiencies / Pavement Markings
7. Truck Accommodations
8. Right Turns on Red
9. Pavement Conditions
10. Alignment Issues (WB and SB)
I-291 Ramp/Fuller Road:
1. Northbound Left-Turn Safety
2. Signage Deficiencies / Pavement Markings
3. Intersection Size / Stop Bar Location
4. Signal Deficiencies
5. Right Turn on Red
6. Bike and Pedestrian Accommodations
7. Guardrail Damage
8. Lighting
9. Pavement Conditions
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Sheridan Street @ Fuller Road
Safety Issue #1: Signal Visibility
Observations:
RSA team members noted concerns with the visibility of the signal displays at this intersection. The red, yellow
and green lights are old and hazy and are not very bright. Vehicles behind large trucks don’t have clear view of
the signal heads.
There were several accidents in the study period that may have been related to people not being able to see the
signals properly, either because of the poor visibility or the sun glare while traveling westbound.
Enhancements:
1. A potential short-term solution would be to update signal lenses and update old lights with LED bulbs.
Installing back plates to reduce glare and make lights more visible would also be a short term improvement.
This may need to be a long term solution depending on mast arm loading.
2. A potential long-term solution would be to update the signal system to include the updated signal heads
and equipment, and new post mounted near right side signal heads for all approaches to prevent the
obstruction from oversized vehicles. LED lenses with yellow reflectorized strip along the outer edge of
the black backplates of the signal head should be installed as part of a new signal system.
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Safety Issue #2: Signal Deficiencies
Observations:
The signal equipment at this intersection is older and in need of updating. The overhead signals are span wire
mounted and there are no post mounted signal heads. There is no emergency preemption. There are no pedestrian
push buttons or signal heads for this intersection. The signal is pre-timed with no vehicle detection to maximize
capacity. There is no leading or lagging phase for the heavy southbound left turn movement.
There were a high number of angle crashes at the intersection. There were few accidents in the study period that
might be related to people either not being able to see the signals, or stopping short because the signal changes too
quickly. The crash reports do not have enough information to say whether signal deficiencies could be a
contributing factor, or just driver inattention.
Enhancements:
1. A potential short-term solution would be to check the yellow and all-red clearance times to see if they are
contributing to some of the rear end or angle collisions mentioned above.
2. A potential long-term solution would be to update the signal system to include the appropriate pedestrian
signals, updated signal heads and equipment, a flashing yellow left turn signal, and provide additional post
mounted signal heads. Vehicle detection and emergency vehicle preemption should also be added. A
southbound left turn lag should be considered to allow clearing of this heavy turn movement.
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Safety Issue #3: Bike and Pedestrian Accommodations
Observations:
RSA team members noted several concerns with regards to pedestrian accommodation and safety. It was noted
that there is existing crosswalk at the west side of the intersection without pedestrian signal heads and had worn
crosswalk markings. There are no sidewalks or crosswalks along Fuller Road. There are no bicycle lanes or other
accommodations for bicycles. Also, there are no edge lines painted. The RSA team also noticed that one pedestrian
crossed the intersection during the audit despite the lack of crosswalk and used the grass area by the road as a
sidewalk.
Enhancements:
1. A potential short-term enhancement would be to install the appropriate MUTCD compliant pedestrian
signage and crosswalk markings, including advanced warning to the crosswalk across Fuller Road. This
would alert drivers to the presence of a crosswalk at the intersection.
2. A potential short-term enhancement would be to install white edge lines with an 11’ lane. This may help
to provide temporary facilities for bicyclists.
3. A potential long-term solution would be to construct sidewalks along Fuller Road and ADA compliant
curb cuts at the intersection. This would provide connectivity and ADA compliant access for all users.
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
MUTCD compliant signage would allow for a safer path for pedestrians looking to cross at this
intersection. Addition of pedestrian signals in conjunction with a traffic signal, will allow for a protected
pedestrian crossing phase that will allow for a safer crossing.
4. A potential long-term solution would be to provide a dedicated bike lane where there is enough room to
do so. Utilizing pavement markings for the addition of bicycle lanes would simultaneously provide traffic
calming and safer bike accommodations. In areas where a dedicated bike lane could not be provided,
consideration should be given to adding sharrows. Bicycle detection should be considered as part of future
intersection improvements. Appropriate MUTCD compliant signage should also be added.
Safety Issue #4: Lighting
Observations:
Some RSA team members noted that the street lights provided at this intersection are not adequate to illuminate
the entire intersection. This can cause visibility issues and it can be dangerous if a pedestrian is trying to cross the
intersection during dark conditions.
Enhancements:
1. A potential short-term enhancement would be to check and change old bulbs and install new brighter
bulbs.
2. A potential long-term solution would be to install additional street lights, particularly at pedestrian
crossings.
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Safety Issue #5: Curb-Cuts and Parking
Observations:
RSA participants noted that wide curb-cuts to businesses near the intersection on both sides of the western approach
and parking within the City layout on the southwest and southeast corners reducing sight distance are a concern.
Enhancements:
1. A potential short term solution would be to work with the business owners and educate them that the
vehicles are currently parked on public right of way and explain the safety issues.
2. A potential long-term solution would be to narrow curb cut openings and modify the intersection design
so that parking within the City layout is deterred.
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Safety Issue #6: Signage Deficiencies / Pavement Markings
Observations:
The pavement markings at this intersection are worn. RSA team members noticed that there aren’t adequate traffic
signs when approaching this intersection. There are no signs indicating lane usage for the two southbound approach
lanes. The street name signs at the intersection are small and not very visible.
Enhancements:
1. A potential short-term solution would be to re-paint pavement markings. This is reportedly done each
spring.
2. A potential short-term or long-term solution would be to install “Left-Turn Must Turn Left” signs or lane
designation signage along the southbound approach. Also, replacing street name signs in compliance to
the MUTCD guidelines.
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Safety Issue #7: Truck Accommodations
Observations:
A relatively high volume of large trucks use this intersection as a primary roadway. Also, there is a truck repair
company next to the intersection which adds additional truck volume to this intersection. A majority of trucks turn
left from Sheridan Street southbound to Fuller Road eastbound and also right from Fuller Road westbound to
Sheridan Street northbound. The truck turning radii at this intersection are not adequate. The curbing at the
northwest and southwest corners of the intersection is damaged by large truck tires due to lack of space for them
to turn.
There were few accidents noted that were a direct result of the inadequate truck turning radii including one stopped
driver that attempted to back up in order to allow room for a truck to turn.
Enhancements:
1. A potential short-term enhancement would be to remove the existing stop line at Fuller Road westbound
and move it back 10 ft. (for WB-50), or move back 20 ft. (for WB-62) and install “No Turn on Red” sign.
2. A potential long-term solution would be to modify the geometry of the intersection to better accommodate
heavy vehicle turning movements. Changing the radius of the northeast corner of the intersection and
providing wider lanes or shoulders are potential solutions.
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Safety Issue #8: Right Turn on Red
Observations:
The truck repair business next to the intersection has significant effect on blocking lines of sight, as several large
trucks are routinely parked there. The angle of the road is bit skewed, which also obstructs view for the vehicles
tuning right on red. Also, southbound right on red is challenging due to the presence of vehicles, including large
trucks, in the left lane waiting to turn left onto Fuller Road.
Enhancements:
1. A potential short-term solution would be to analyze the effect on traffic of forbidding right turn on red on
certain approaches, and adding “No Turn on Red” signs where appropriate.
2. A potential long-term solution would be to reconstruct the intersection to improve lines of sight in order
to better accommodate right turns on red.
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Safety Issue #9: Pavement Conditions
Observations:
The pavement condition at this intersection is poor. RSA team noticed that there many cracks and few small
potholes at this intersection which has resulted in ponding of water. Enhancements:
1. A potential short-term solutions would be to patch existing potholes and deteriorated roadway sections.
2. A potential long-term solution would be to repave this intersection.
Safety Issue #10: Alignment Issues (Northbound and Southbound)
Observations:
It was noted during the audit that the northbound and southbound approaches of Sheridan Street do not line up
well. In reviewing the existing conditions plans, vehicles approaching southbound are directed towards the curb
radius and not the receiving southbound lane on Sheridan Street.
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Enhancements:
1. A potential long term solution would be to make geometric improvements at the intersection, which would
provide a better alignment for the southbound through path of travel.
I-291 Ramp/Veterans Memorial Bridge @ Fuller Road
Safety Issue #1: Northbound Left-Turn Safety
Observations:
RSA team members indicated that the lagging northbound left turn phase for Veterans Memorial Bridge is an issue.
Northbound left turning vehicles from Veterans Memorial Bridge tend not to yield to the oncoming traffic from
the I-291 Ramp at the start of the green phase when left turns are permitted. The length of the intersection and time
required for left turns to exit the path of oncoming vehicles compounds this problem. Also, the current location of
“Left Turn Yield on Green (ball)” sign is mounted too far to the left.
Enhancements:
1. A potential short-term solution would be to move the appropriate MUTCD compliant signage for “Left
Turn Yield on Green (ball)” from the post to the mast arm making it more visible to the northbound left
vehicles.
2. A potential long-term solution would be to upgrade the signal system with appropriate signage and
additional leading green time if appropriate to provide additional capacity for left turns from Veterans
Memorial Bridge. The solution of adding a flashing yellow arrow/red arrow to this intersection was
discussed at the RSA and should be considered as part of signal improvements.
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Safety Issue #2: Signage Deficiencies / Pavement Markings
Observations:
RSA team members noticed that the street name signs are small and not very visible. The “Left Turn Yield on
Green (ball)” sign for the northbound approach is currently installed on the mast arm pole away from the signal
display and is less visible to the drivers. There are no “Left Turn Yield on Green (ball)” or lane use designation
signs on the southbound, eastbound and westbound approaches. There is also a mast arm on the bridge south
approach with no signs on it. This can be confusing as it appears the mast arm was for lane designation signs.
Many of the markings have begun fading and the stop lines are currently only 6” wide which does not meet the
state standard.
Enhancements:
1. A potential short-term or long-term solution would be to move the “Left Turn Yield on Green (ball)” sign
out on the mast arm near the signal display and add signs for the southbound, eastbound and westbound
approaches.
2. A potential short-term solution would be to replace street name signs in compliance to the MUTCD
guidelines.
3. Another potential short-term solution would be to re-paint pavement markings. This is reportedly done
each spring.
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Safety Issue #3: Intersection Size / Stop Bar Location
Observations:
RSA team members pointed out that the large size of this intersection is a concern. The need for three approach
lanes on three of the approaches was questioned. The need for two southbound receiving lanes was questioned.
The position of the stop lines, which are set far back from the intersection, also makes the intersection appear larger
than necessary. The large size of the intersection is a concern due to the increased room for conflicts within the
intersection and the time required for vehicles to travel through the intersection. Trucks have difficulty making
turns through the intersection and determining the path to take. Many times vehicles making turns encroach on the
double yellow centerline.
Enhancements:
1. A potential short-term and long term solution would be to move the stop lines closer to the intersection
after evaluating truck turns and signal head visibility.
2. A potential long-term solution would be to modify intersection geometry or reduce the number of lanes at
the intersection. Reconstructing the intersection as a modern roundabout instead of a traffic signal should
also be considered.
3. Another long-term solution would be to reduce the number of southbound departure lanes, this may allow
for reduction of intersection size as well as room for the addition of bicycle lanes or shoulder over the
Veterans Memorial Bridge.
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Safety Issue #4: Signal Deficiencies
Observations:
The signal equipment at this intersection is older and in need of updating. There are loop detectors present, but
they are not functioning. The protected-left signals on both directions of Fuller Road at this location are activated
green without any vehicles present, creating unnecessary delays for the intersection. All signal heads are posted
on the mast arms for each approach. There is no emergency preemption. There are no supplemental post mounted
signal heads. There are no pedestrian signal heads for this intersection.
RSA team noticed that signal head visibility is poor, and there are no back plates to make the lights more visible.
Part of signal visibility issue is the alignment with the lanes. The signal for eastbound and southbound approach is
mounted on the opposing approach side making it unclear which signal head is for the approach. Also, there seems
to be a pattern of red light running.
Enhancements:
1. A potential short-term solution would be to check the yellow clearance time to see if that is attributed to
vehicles running red lights.
2. A potential short term improvement would be installing LED lenses with yellow reflectorized strip along
the outer edge of the black backplates of the signal head to make the lights more visible. This may need
to be a long term solution depending on mast arm loading.
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
3. A potential short term solution would be to fix the non-functioning loop detectors.
4. A potential long-term solution would be to update the signal system to include the appropriate pedestrian
signals, updated signal heads and equipment, and provide additional overhead signal heads on the mast
arms or install post mounted signal heads. Vehicle detection should be provided. Emergency vehicle
preemption should also be added.
Safety Issue #5: Right Turn on Red
Observations:
Right Turn on Red tends to be problematic at this intersection because of the huge size of this intersection and also
due to the stop bar position and sight distance issues. Enhancements:
1. A potential short-term solution would be to analyze the effect on traffic by forbidding right turn on red,
and adding “No Turn on Red” signs.
2. A potential long term solution would be to reconstruct the intersection with improved stop line position
and sight lines for making right turns on red.
3. A potential long-term solution for the eastbound approach would be to channelize eastbound right turn
lane. This would potentially allow for improved sight lines and a yield condition for this movement.
Channelizing the right turn lane would allow vehicles to enter into their own lane, providing one lane for
the right turn movement and one lane for the southbound through movement.
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Safety Issue #6: Bike and Pedestrian Accommodations
Observations:
RSA team members noted that there are no existing pedestrian accommodations at this intersection. RSA team
members indicated the lack of bicycle facilities in the project area. There are no markings or signage indicating a
safe route for bicycles to follow.
Enhancements:
1. A potential long-term solution would be to construct sidewalks and ADA compliant curb cuts at the
intersection. This would provide connectivity and ADA compliant access for all users. MUTCD signage
would allow for a safer path for pedestrians looking to cross at this intersection. Addition of pedestrian
signals in conjunction with a traffic signal, would allow for a protected pedestrian crossing phase that will
allow for a safer crossing.
2. A potential long-term solution would be to provide dedicated bike lanes where there is enough room to do
so. In areas where a dedicated bike lane could not be provided, consideration should be given to adding
sharrows. Appropriate MUTCD compliant signage would also be added. Bicycle detection could be added
as part of a signal reconstruction.
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Safety Issue #7: Guardrail Damage
Observations:
Guardrails at the northeast and northwest side of the intersection have significant visible damage due to vehicle
strikes. Enhancements:
1. A potential short-term enhancement would be to fix or replace the damaged guardrails.
2. A potential long-term solution would be to upgrade the intersection geometry and signal system with
appropriate signage, signal timing/phasing and truck turning radii. The position of the guardrail should be
assessed as part of an intersection reconstruction project.
Safety Issue #8: Lighting
Observations:
Some RSA team members noted that the street lighting provided at this intersection isn’t adequate to illuminate
the entire intersection. Overhead lights are present on two corners of the intersection.
Enhancements:
1. A potential short-term enhancement would be evaluate and change old dull lights and install new brighter
lights.
2. A potential long-term solution would be to install additional street lights on corners of the intersection
where they are not currently located. It was noted that additional lighting may be necessary if crosswalks
are added to the intersection.
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Safety Issue #9: Pavement Conditions
Observations:
Pavement condition at this intersection is generally fair to good. However, there is significant pavement rutting on
the eastbound approach. Ruts may prevent rainwater from flowing to the side of the road into gutters, resulting in
ponding within the travel lane.
Enhancements:
1. A potential short term solution would be to patch the rutted areas.
2. A potential long-term solution would be to fix the pavement rutting by reconstructing the pavement.
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Summary of Road Safety Audit
Table 2 summarizes the safety issues, possible enhancements, estimated safety payoff, time frame, estimated cost,
and the responsible party. Safety payoff estimates are subjective and are based on engineering judgment. Safety
payoffs are classified as low medium, and high. The time frame is categorized as short-term (<1 year), mid-term
(1 to 3 years), or long-term (>3 years). The costs are categorized as low (<$10,000), medium ($10,001 to $50,000),
or high (>$50,001).
Table 2. Potential Safety Enhancement Summary – Sheridan Street/Fuller Road
Safety Issue
Signal Visibility
Signal Deficiencies
Bike and Pedestrian
Accommodations
Potential Safety Enhancement
Safety Payoff Time Frame
Cost
Update signal lenses and update old
lights with LED bulbs. Install yellow
retroreflective strip along the outer edge
of the black backplates to make the lights
more visible.
High
Short
Low
City
Update the signal system to include the
updated signal heads and equipment, and High
install new post mounted signal heads.
Long
High
City
Check the yellow clearance time to see if
that is causing some of the rear end
collisions.
Medium
Short
Low
City
Update the signal system to include the
appropriate pedestrian signals, updated
signal heads and equipment, flashing
yellow left turn signal, and provide
additional post mounted signal heads.
Emergency vehicle preemption should
also be added.
High
Long
High
City
Install the appropriate MUTCD compliant
pedestrian signage and crosswalks,
including advanced warning to the
crosswalks across Fuller Road and
Sheridan Street.
Medium
Short
Low
City
Install white edge lines with an 11’ lane.
This may help to provide temporary
facilities for bicyclists.
Medium
Short
Low
City
Long
High
City
Construct sidewalks and ADA compliant
curb cuts on Fuller Road. This would
provide connectivity and ADA compliant
access for all users. MUTCD signage
would allow for a safer path for
High
pedestrians looking to cross at this
intersection. Addition of pedestrian signals
in conjunction with a traffic signal, will
allow for a protected pedestrian crossing
phase that will allow for a safer crossing.
Responsibility
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
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Table 2. Potential Safety Enhancement Summary – Sheridan Street/Fuller Road
Safety Issue
Potential Safety Enhancement
Safety Payoff Time Frame
Cost
Responsibility
Provide a dedicated bike lane where there
is enough room to do so. In areas where a
dedicated bike lane could not be provided,
consideration should be given to adding
High
sharrows. Bicycle detection should be
considered as part of future intersection
improvements. Appropriate MUTCD
compliant signage should also be added.
Long
High
City
Change old dim lights and install new
brighter lights.
Low
Short
Low
City
Install additional street lights.
Medium
Long
Medium City
Educate business owners regarding
safety issues with parking within layout.
Low
Short
Low
City
Curb-Cuts and Parking Reduce curb cut widths and intersection
geometry to help prevent parking within
City Layout.
Medium
Long
High
City
Install “Left-Turn Must Turn Left” sign on
Signage Deficiencies / the southbound approach. Replace street
Pavement Markings name signs in compliance to the MUTCD
guidelines.
Low
Short
Low
City
Re-paint pavement markings.
Medium
Short
Low
City
Remove the existing stop line at Fuller
Road westbound and move it back and
install “No Turn on Red” sign.
Medium
Short
Low
City
Modify intersection geometry for improved
High
truck turning accommodations.
Long
High
City
Analyze the effect on traffic by forbidding
right turn on red, and add “No Turn on
Red” signs.
Medium
Short
Low
City
Reconstruct the intersection to improve
lines of sight.
Medium
Long
High
City
Patch existing potholes.
Low
Short
Low
City
Repave the intersection.
Medium
Long
Medium City
Medium
Long
High
Lighting
Truck
Accommodations
Right Turn on Red
Pavement Conditions
Alignment Issues
Make geometric improvements at the
intersection, which would provide a better
alignment for the southbound through
path of travel.
City
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Table 2. Potential Safety Enhancement Summary – I-291 Ramp/Fuller Road
Safety Issue
Northbound left-Turn
Safety
Signage Deficiencies /
Pavement Markings
Intersection Size / Stop
Bar Location
Signal Deficiencies
Right Turn on Red
Potential Safety Enhancement
Safety Payoff Time Frame
Cost
Responsibility
Move the appropriate MUTCD compliant
signage for “Left Turn Yield on Green
(ball)” from the post to the mast arm
making it more visible to the northbound
left vehicles.
Low
Short
Low
City
Upgrade the signal system with
appropriate signage and additional
leading green time if appropriate to
provide additional capacity for left turns
from Veterans Memorial Bridge. Add a
flashing yellow arrow/red arrow.
Medium
Long
High
City
Install appropriate MUTCD compliant
signage for “Left Turn Yield on Green
(ball)” sign on the mast arm. Replace
street name signs in compliance to the
MUTCD guidelines.
Medium
Short
Low
City
Replace street name signs in compliance
to the MUTCD guidelines.
Low
Short
Low
City
Re-paint pavement markings.
Medium
Short
Low
City
Re-paint and move the stop line.
Medium
Short
Low
City
Modify intersection geometry or reduce
the number of lanes at the intersection.
Medium
Long
High
City
Reconstruct the intersection as a modern
roundabout instead of a traffic signal.
Medium
Long
High
City
Reduce the number of southbound
departure lanes.
Medium
Long
Medium City
Check the yellow clearance times to see if
Medium
they should be adjusted.
Short
Low
City
Install LED lenses with yellow
retroreflective strip along the outer edge
of the black backplates to make the
signals more visible.
Medium
Short
Low
City
Fix the non-functioning loop detectors.
Medium
Short
Medium City
Update the signal system to include the
appropriate pedestrian signals, updated
signal heads and equipment, and provide
additional overhead signal heads on the
mast arms or install post mounted signal
heads. Emergency vehicle preemption
should also be added.
High
Long
High
City
Analyze the effect on capacity by
forbidding right turn on red, and adding
“No Turn on Red” signs.
Medium
Short
Low
City
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Table 2. Potential Safety Enhancement Summary – I-291 Ramp/Fuller Road
Safety Issue
Bike and Pedestrian
Accommodations
Guardrail Damage
Lighting
Pavement Conditions
Potential Safety Enhancement
Safety Payoff Time Frame
Cost
Responsibility
Long
High
City
Long
Medium City
Construct sidewalks, crosswalks and ADA
compliant curb cuts. This would provide
connectivity and ADA compliant access
for all users. MUTCD signage would allow
for a safer path for pedestrians looking to
High
cross at this intersection. Addition of
pedestrian signals in conjunction with a
traffic signal, will allow for a protected
pedestrian crossing phase that will allow
for a safer crossing.
Long
High
City
Provide dedicated bike lanes where there
is enough room to do so. In areas where a
dedicated bike lane could not be provided,
consideration should be given to adding
Medium
sharrows. Appropriate MUTCD compliant
signage would also be added. Bicycle
detection could be added.
Long
High
City
Fix damaged guardrail sections
Low
Short
Low
City
Reconstruct intersection with proper
geometry, signal timing, and guardrail
placement.
Medium
Long
High
City
Change old dim lights and install new
brighter lights.
Low
Short
Low
City
Install additional street lights on all
corners of the intersection.
Medium
Long
Medium City
Patch the pavement ruts.
Low
Short
Low
City
Fix the pavement rutting with pavement
reconstruction.
Medium
Long
High
City
Reconstruct the intersection with
improved stop line position and sight lines High
for making right turns on red.
Channelize eastbound right turn lane.
Medium
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Appendix A. RSA Meeting Agenda
Road Safety Audit
Chicopee, MA
Fuller Rd. at Sheridan St. & I291/Memorial Bridge
Meeting Location: Chicopee Engineering Dept.
115 Baskin Drive, Chicopee MA 01020
March 10th, 2016
10:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Type of meeting:
High Crash Location – Road Safety Audit
Attendees:
Invited Participants to Comprise a Multidisciplinary Team
Please bring:
Thoughts and Enthusiasm!!
10:00 AM
Welcome and Introductions
10:15 PM
Review of Site Specific Material
 Crash, Speed & Volume Summaries– provided in advance
 Existing Geometries and Conditions
11:00 AM
Visit the Site
 Drive to Fuller Rd. at Sheridan St. and I-291/ Veterans Memorial Bridge
 As a group, identify areas for improvement
12:00 PM
Post Visit Discussion / Completion of RSA
 Discuss observations and finalize findings
 Discuss potential improvements and finalize recommendations
12:30 PM
Adjourn for the Day – but the RSA has not ended
Instructions for Participants:



Before attending the RSA on March 10th, participants are encouraged to drive
through the intersections and complete/consider elements on the RSA Prompt List
with a focus on safety.
All participants will be actively involved in the process throughout. Participants
are encouraged to come with thoughts and ideas, but are reminded that the
synergy that develops and respect for others’ opinions are key elements to the
success of the overall RSA process.
After the RSA meeting, participants will be asked to comment and respond to the
document materials to assure it is reflective of the RSA completed by the
multidisciplinary team.
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Appendix B. RSA Audit Team Contact List
Road Safety Audit Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Participating Audit Team Members
Date: March 10, 2016
Audit Team Members
John Mastera
Laura Hanson
Luke Hayes
Trung Vo
Steven Frederick
Mike Carra
Mark Page
John Morgan
Debit Karki
Location:
Agency/Affiliation
MassDOT Safety
MassDOT District 2
MassDOT District 2
MassDOT District 2
City of Chicopee Engineer
City of Chicopee Highway
City of Chicopee Police Department
CHA Consulting
CHA Consulting
Chicopee
Email Address
john.mastera@state.ma.us
laura.hanson@state.ma.us
luke.hayes@state.ma.us
trung.vo@dot.state.ma.us
sfrederick@chicopeema.gov
mcarra@chicopeema.gov
mpage@chicopeepolice.com
jmorganjr@chacompanies.com
dkarki@chacompanies.com
Phone Number
857-368-9648
413-582-0589
413-582-1525
413-582-1516
413-575-8424
413-575-9946
413-594-1771
781-982-5437
781-792-2263
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Appendix C. Detailed Crash Data 34
Crash Data Summary Table
Fuller Road @ Sheridan St,Chicopee, MA
1/2011 to 11/2015
Crash
Diagram
Ref #
1
2
3
4
5
Month #
Crash Day
5
5
7
8
1
Crash Date Day #
m/d/y
5/19/11
4
5/19/11
4
7/21/11
4
8/8/11
1
1/13/12
5
Time #
Time of Day
6
4
4/4/12
3
Wednesday
7
4
4/21/12
6
Saturday
8
9
6
8
6/30/12
8/22/12
6
3
Saturday
Wednesday
10
13
9:33
21:33
4:20
16:40
12:27
2
2
3
2
3
Rear-end
Rear-end
Angle
Rear-end
Angle
1
1
1
1
1
8
8:23
3
Angle
1
Daylight
1
Clear
1
Dry
Driver Contributing Code
Type
Inattention
Unknown
Unknown
Inattention
Glare
Disregarded traffic signs,
3
signals, road markings
20
20:51
3
Angle
4
Dark - lighted roadway 1
Clear
1
Dry
99
10:26
13:07
3
2
Angle
Rear-end
1
1
Daylight
Daylight
1
1
Clear
Clear
1
1
Dry
Dry
3
19
#
Thursday
Thursday
Thursday
Monday
Friday
9
21
4
16
12
Manner of Collision
Type
#
Light Condition
Type
Daylight
Daylight
Daylight
Daylight
Daylight
2
3
1
1
1
Weather Condition
#
Type
Cloudy
Rain
Clear
Clear
Clear
#
2
2
1
1
1
Road Surface
Type
Wet
Wet
Dry
Dry
Dry
#
19
99
99
19
13
DOB
DOB
Ages
DOB
DOB
D1
D2
12/10/1971 11/10/1936
39
74
5/31/1992 10/14/1992
4/13/1942
4/12/1932
19
69
18
79
6/20/1955
1/15/1946
56
66
11/1/1934
8/16/1944
5/24/1991
7/6/1983
77
68
21
29
9/3/1986
10
9
9/20/12
4
Thursday
8
8:05
3
Angle
1
Daylight
1
Clear
1
Dry
3
Unknown
Disregarded traffic signs,
signals, road markings
Inattention
Disregarded traffic signs,
signals, road markings
11
12
12/6/12
4
Thursday
14
14:27
3
Angle
1
Daylight
1
Clear
1
Dry
4
Failed to yield right of way
12
12
12/7/12
5
Friday
21
21:58
3
Angle
4
Dark - lighted roadway 3
Rain
2
Wet
19
Inattention
13
14
12
1
12/24/12
1/29/13
1
2
Monday
Tuesday
7
11
7:47
11:45
3
4
Angle
Sideswipe, same direction
1
1
Daylight
Daylight
1
2
Clear
Cloudy
1
2
Dry
Wet
4
99
Failed to yield right of way
Unknown
15
16
17
4
5
6
4/24/13
5/3/2013
Wednesday
Friday
Monday
14
11
11
14:16
11:43
11:40
6
3
2
Head on
Angle
Rear-end
1
1
1
Daylight
Daylight
Daylight
1
1
2
Clear
Clear
Cloudy
1
1
2
Dry
Dry
Wet
4
18
19
Failed to yield right of way
Visibility Obstructed
Inattention
1/9/1954
4/16/1980
6/3/13
3
5
1
18
6
6/5/13
3
Wednesday
15
15:48
3
Angle
1
Daylight
1
Clear
1
Dry
4
Failed to yield right of way
19
6
6/8/13
6
Saturday
1
1:57
2
Rear-end
4
Dark - lighted roadway 3
Rain
2
Wet
5
Followed too closely
20
21
7
5
7/30/13
5/20/14
2
2
Tuesday
Tuesday
8
10
8:15
10:20
3
2
Angle
Rear-end
1
1
Daylight
Daylight
1
1
Clear
Clear
1
1
Dry
Dry
4
1
3/26/1933 10/31/1945
3/26/1951 10/26/1982
22
23
6
8
6/14/14
8/27/14
6
3
Saturday
Wednesday
8
10
8:43
10:51
3
3
Angle
Angle
1
1
Daylight
Daylight
1
1
Clear
Clear
1
1
Dry
Dry
3
99
Failed to yield right of way
No Improper Driving
Disregarded traffic signs,
signals, road markings
Unknown
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
10
10
12
3
6
9
11
10/18/14
10/31/14
12/10/14
3/22/15
6/16/15
9/16/15
11/19/15
6
5
3
7
2
3
4
Saturday
Friday
Wednesday
Sunday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
2
11
10
11
8
15
14
2:56
11:13
10:29
11:38
8:26
15:48
14:45
2
2
2
3
1
2
3
Rear-end
Rear-end
Rear-end
Angle
Single Vehicle Crash
Rear-end
Angle
4
1
1
1
1
1
1
Dark - lighted roadway
Daylight
Daylight
Daylight
Daylight
Daylight
Daylight
1
1
3
1
2
1
1
Clear
Clear
Rain
Clear
Cloudy
Clear
Clear
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
Dry
Dry
Wet
Dry
Dry
Dry
Dry
19
5
1
99
20
19
19
Inattention
Followed too closely
No Improper Driving
Unknown
Distracted
Inattention
Inattention
8/4/1961 11/26/1954
51
57
8/16/1933
10/21/1930
26
79
1/7/1992 11/12/1988
20
24
4/22/1978
3/25/1966
8/22/1992 11/20/1969
34
20
46
43
8/7/1996
2/13/1989
59
33
16
24
2/28/1942
1/1/1933
71
80
6/14/1981
4/27/1965
31
48
80
63
67
31
8/25/1957
11/2/1945
5/19/1964
4/28/1961
6/13/1993
68
50
53
21
11/10/1982
12/22/1990
4/1/1996
6/14/1959
12/31/1956
4/4/1965
1/2/1988
9/29/1957
6/25/1987
9/1/1992
4/18/1955
31
23
18
55
58
50
27
57
27
22
59
4/28/1975
7/30/1952
40
63
Summary based on Crash Reports obtained from the Chicopee Police Dept. and MassDOT
*Courtesy Crash - A term used to describe a crash that occurs subsequent to a non-involved mainline driver who gives the right of way, contrary to the rules of the road, to another driver.
35
D3
81
55
D4
Crash Data Summary Table
Fuller Road @ Veterans Memorial Bridge & I-291 Ramp ,Chicopee, MA
1/2011 to 11/2015
Crash
Diagram
Ref #
Month #
Crash Date Day #
m/d/y
Crash Day
Time #
Time of Day
#
Manner of Collision
Type
#
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
3
3
4
5
1
1
6
6
8
8
3/5/11
3/10/11
4/5/11
5/11/12
1/6/13
1/6/13
6/17/13
6/20/13
8/6/13
8/6/13
6
4
2
5
7
7
1
4
2
2
Saturday
Thursday
Tuesday
Friday
Sunday
Sunday
Monday
Thursday
Tuesday
Tuesday
1
7
6
15
0
12
11
7
10
10
1:35
7:20
6:46
15:20
0:00
12:59
11:09
7:02
10:21
10:21
1
2
2
3
6
6
2
6
2
2
Single Vehicle Crash
Rear-end
Rear-end
Angle
Head on
Head on
Rear-end
Head on
Rear-end
Rear-end
4
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
11
12
13
12
9
11
12/15/13
9/3/14
11/19/14
7
3
3
Sunday
Wednesday
Wednesday
4
16
6
4:34
16:24
6:49
3
2
2
Angle
Rear-end
Rear-end
5
1
1
Light Condition
Type
Dark - lighted roadway
Daylight
Daylight
Daylight
Daylight
Daylight
Daylight
Daylight
Daylight
Daylight
Dark - roadway not
lighted
Daylight
Daylight
Weather Condition
#
Type
#
Road Surface
Type
#
Driver Contributing Code
Type
2
2
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
Cloudy
Cloudy
Cloudy
Clear
Clear
Clear
Clear
Clear
Clear
Clear
2
1
2
1
2
2
1
1
1
1
Wet
Dry
Wet
Dry
Wet
Wet
Dry
Dry
Dry
Dry
99
19
5
4
99
4
99
99
99
19
Unknown
Inattention
Followed too closely
Failed to yield right of way
Unknown
Failed to yield right of way
Unknown
Unknown
Unknown
Inattention
1
1
1
Clear
Clear
Clear
2
1
1
Wet
Dry
Dry
99
19
19
Unknown
Inattention
Inattention
DOB
DOB
3/28/1985
5/13/1983
9/1/1952 12/8/1967
9/23/1952 10/27/1995
DOB
Ages
DOB
D1
D2
25
27
58
59
43
16
27
12/16/1934
3/9/1985
78
8/20/1953
3/25/1975
59
4/5/1969
2/27/1949
6/6/1969
6/27/1953
45
65
Summary based on Crash Reports obtained from the Chicopee Police Dept. and MassDOT
*Courtesy Crash - A term used to describe a crash that occurs subsequent to a non-involved mainline driver who gives the right of way, contrary to the rules of the road, to another driver.
38
45
61
D3
D4
Road Safety Audit
Fuller Road, Chicopee
Prepared by CHA Consulting
Appendix D. Peak Hour Traffic Volumes
41
Appendix E. Road Safety Audit References 43
Road Safety Audit References
Massachusetts
Traffic
Safety
Toolbox,
www.mhd.state.ma.us/safetytoolbox.
Massachusetts
Highway
Department,
Road Safety Audits, A Synthesis of Highway Practice. NCHRP Synthesis 336. Transportation Research
Board, National Cooperative Highway Research Program, 2004.
Road Safety Audits. Institute of Transportation Engineers and U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal
Highway Administration, www.roadwaysafetyaudits.org.
FHWA Road Safety Audit Guidelines.
Administration, 2006.
U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway
Road Safety Audit, 2nd edition. Austroads, 2000.
Road Safety Audits. ITE Technical Council Committee 4S-7. Institute of Transportation Engineers,
February 1995.
44