ROAD SAFETY AUDIT
Lower Westfield Road
City of Holyoke
June 5, 2015
Prepared For:
Massachusetts Department of Transportation
Prepared By:
Toole Design Group
33 Broad Street, 4th Floor
Boston, MA 02109
Road Safety Audit—Lower Westfield Road – Holyoke, Massachusetts
Prepared by Toole Design Group
Table of Contents
Background ................................................................................................................................. 1
Project Location Description ..................................................................................................... 2
Project Data ................................................................................................................................. 7
Audit Observations and Potential Enhancements ................................................................... 8
Lower Westfield Road......................................................................................................................... 8
Lower Westfield Road at Interstate 91 Southbound Ramps .............................................................. 11
Lower Westfield Road at Interstate 91 Northbound Ramps .............................................................. 12
Lower Westfield Road at Whiting Farms Road and Holyoke Street................................................. 15
Summary of Road Safety Audit ............................................................................................... 17
List of Appendices
Appendix A.
Appendix B.
Appendix C.
RSA Meeting Agenda
RSA Audit Team Contact List
Detailed Crash Data
List of Tables
Table 1.
Table 2.
Participating Audit Team Members ....................................................................................... 1
Potential Safety Enhancement Summary ............................................................................. 18
Road Safety Audit—Lower Westfield Road – Holyoke, Massachusetts
Prepared by Toole Design Group
Background
The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) Highway Division Safety Section has
conducted a Road Safety Audit (RSA) for three intersections along Lower Westfield Road in Holyoke,
Massachusetts. An RSA is required to be performed during the design process for any MassDOT project
that includes a high crash location. The goal of the RSA is to identify safety issues and provide potential
enhancements to improve safety for all roadway users. Additionally, the potential enhancements are
categorized by timeframe and cost which allows responsible agencies to determine when to make
proposed implementations.
Toole Design Group (TDG) conducted an RSA on Friday, April 10, 2015. The audit was held at the
Jones Ferry River Access Center in Holyoke, MA. Members of the audit team discussed safety issues,
conducted a site visit, and determined countermeasures during the audit on the infrastructure and
operating conditions of the three subject intersections. The members of the audit team comprised of
representatives from local, regional, and state agencies ranging from emergency responders to
transportation planners and engineers. The members and their affiliations are provided in Table 1.
Contact information for the audit team members are provided in Appendix B.
Table 1. Participating Audit Team Members
Audit Team Member
Agency/Affiliation
Jeff Burkott
City of Holyoke Planning Department
Matt Sokop
City of Holyoke Department of Public Works
Edward Moskal
City of Holyoke Police Department
Stephen Loftus
Lt. John F. Healy
City of Holyoke Police Department
Massachusetts State Police Department
Khyati Parmar
Pioneer Valley Planning Commission
Thomas Ruta
MassDOT District 2 Design
Laura Hanson
MassDOT District 2 Projects
Luke Hayes
MassDOT District 2 Traffic
Anne O’Flaherty
MassDOT District 2 Projects
Bao Lang
MassDOT District 2 Traffic
Lisa Schletzbaum
MassDOT Safety
Dave Greenberg
VHB
John Furman
VHB
Patrick Baxter
Toole Design Group (TDG)
Shannon Brown
Toole Design Group (TDG)
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Road Safety Audit—Lower Westfield Road – Holyoke, Massachusetts
Prepared by Toole Design Group
Project Location Description
The study area includes the following three intersections along Lower Westfield Road in Holyoke,
Massachusetts, as shown in Figure 1:
• Lower Westfield Road at Interstate 91 Southbound Ramps;
• Lower Westfield Road at Interstate 91 Northbound Ramps; and
• Lower Westfield Road at Whiting Farms Road and Holyoke Street.
The intersections of Lower Westfield Road and the Interstate 91 ramps are both recorded 2012 Highway
Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) cluster locations for the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission
(PVPC) region. The intersection of Lower Westfield Road at Whiting Farms Road & Holyoke Street is
ranked #145 in high crash locations statewide for 2012.
Lower Westfield Road is a City-owned roadway classified by the MassDOT Bureau of Transportation
Planning and Development as an urban minor arterial west of Whiting Farms Road, transitioning to an
urban collector to the east. According to the MassDOT Transportation Data Management System, 2013
traffic volumes on Lower Westfield Road west of the interchange were 15,808 vehicles per day. East of
the interchange, 2001 traffic volumes were 21,724 vehicles per day. Lower Westfield Road is subject to a
speed limit of 30 miles per hour according to the recorded Speed Regulations, and provides two travel
lanes in each direction. No bicycle facilities are provided on Lower Westfield Road within the study area,
however bicycle lanes are provided west of the study area. No sidewalks or crosswalks are provided
within the vicinity of the Interstate 91 ramp intersections, however sidewalks and crosswalks are provided
on the north and east sides of the Whiting Farms Road intersection.
The intersection of Lower Westfield Road with the Interstate 91 southbound ramps (Figure 2) is
signalized with mast arm mounted signals. The southbound ramps provide one-way flow to and from
Interstate 91 southbound. The Lower Westfield Road approaches each provide two travel lanes plus a
channelized right turn from the eastbound approach to the on-ramp. The southbound off-ramp approach
provides dual left turn lanes plus a channelized right turn lane. The traffic signal provides three signal
phases, including a left turn advance phase for westbound traffic, a through phase for Lower Westfield
Road, and a phase for the ramp approach. No pedestrian facilities or signals are provided at the
intersection.
The intersection of Lower Westfield Road with the Interstate 91 northbound ramps (Figure 3) is
signalized with mast arm mounted signals. The northbound ramps provide one-way flow to and from
Interstate 91 northbound. The Lower Westfield Road approaches each provide two travel lanes plus a
channelized right turn from the westbound approach to the on-ramp. The northbound off-ramp approach
provides dual left turn lanes plus a channelized right turn lane, which flares into two lanes. The traffic
signal provides three signal phases, including a left turn advance phase for eastbound traffic, a through
phase for Lower Westfield Road, and a phase for the ramp approach. No pedestrian facilities or signals
are provided at the intersection.
The intersection of Lower Westfield Road at Whiting Farms Road and Holyoke Street (Figure 4) is
signalized with mast arm and post mounted signals. The eastbound approach provides an exclusive left
turn lane, a through lane, and channelized dual right turn lanes. The westbound approach provides an
Page 2
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Lower Westfield Rd
Road Safety Audit: Holyoke, MA
Figure 1. Locus Map: Lower Westfield Rd
200' radius
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Road Safety Audit: Holyoke, MA
Figure 2. I-91 SB Ramp at Lower Westfield Rd
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Road Safety Audit: Holyoke, MA
Figure 3. I-91 NB Ramp at Lower Westfield Rd
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Road Safety Audit: Holyoke, MA
Figure 4. Holyoke St at Lower Westfield Rd
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Road Safety Audit—Lower Westfield Road – Holyoke, Massachusetts
Prepared by Toole Design Group
exclusive left turn lane and a shared through/right turn lane. The northbound approach provides dual left
turn lanes, a through lane, and a right turn lane. The southbound approach provides a left turn lane, a
through lane, and a right turn lane. Sidewalks are provided along the east side of Whiting Farms Road
and Holyoke Street as well as at the northeast corner, however the sidewalk on the northeast corner does
not connect to any sidewalks on Whiting Farms Road or Lower Westfield Road. Crosswalks and
pedestrian signals are provided across the north and east legs, however the pedestrian signals were noted
to be non-functioning during the audit. The signal provides protected permissive phasing including
flashing yellow arrow operation for the eastbound approach and protected left turn phasing for the
northbound and southbound approaches.
Project Data
Audit team members received a meeting packet prior to the RSA including a meeting agenda (Appendix
A), study area details, and crash data details. The crash data details and collision diagrams, graphical
representation of the crash data, are provided in Appendix C. The audit members were asked to review
the packet and visit the RSA study area prior to the meeting. Safety issues were identified by the team at
the beginning of the RSA, followed by a field visit to the subject intersections. The audit team finished
the meeting by determining appropriate countermeasures for the safety issues discussed.
The crash data and collision diagrams were based on crashes that were reported by Massachusetts State
Police and the Holyoke Police Department and occurred between January 2012 and December 2014.
According to the data, approximately 111 crashes were reported at the three intersections during the three
year time period.
During the study period, 33 crashes were reported at the intersection of Lower Westfield Road at the
Interstate 91 southbound ramps. Of those crashes, the majority were rear-end crashes (58 percent – 19
crashes). The remaining crashes included angle crashes (27 percent – 9 crashes), sideswipe crashes (9
percent – 3 crashes), and two single vehicle crashes. The most common time period for crashes was the
afternoon peak period between 4:00 and 6:00 PM.
The intersection of Lower Westfield Road at the Interstate 91 northbound ramps had 42 reported crashes
during the study period. The most common were angle crashes (43 percent – 18 crashes) and rear-end
crashes (40% - 17 crashes). The remaining crashes included single vehicle crashes (7 percent – 3
crashes), sideswipe crashes (5 percent – 2 crashes), and head on crashes (5 percent – 2 crashes). The most
common time period for crashes was the afternoon peak period between 4:00 and 6:00 PM.
The intersection of Lower Westfield Road at Whiting Farms Road and Holyoke Street experienced 36
reported crashes during the study period. The most common were rear-end crashes (42 percent – 15
crashes) and angle crashes (39% - 14 crashes). The remainder included sideswipe crashes (14 percent, 5
crashes), one head on crash, and one backing-up crash.
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Road Safety Audit—Lower Westfield Road – Holyoke, Massachusetts
Prepared by Toole Design Group
Audit Observations and Potential Enhancements
During the RSA, the audit team identified the safety issues and discussed potential safety enhancements
to address the issues. Several of the safety issues identified by the audit team were:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Intersection geometry and operations;
Lack of left-turn lanes;
Congestion;
Weaving difficulties between intersections;
Traffic signal equipment;
Line striping;
Signage; and
Pedestrian and bicycle accommodations.
The following sections discuss in detail the safety issues and potential enhancements that were identified
during the RSA. The safety issues and potential enhancements are separated by location.
Lower Westfield Road
Safety Issue #1. Congestion
Observations:
The audit team noted that congestion along the Lower Westfield Road corridor is heavy,
especially during peak retail shopping periods, with 28 percent of the crashes within the study
area occurring in December. The team also noted that queues on the Interstate 91 northbound offramp have been observed to extend back onto the Interstate main line, which is a safety issue for
traffic on the Interstate.
Potential Enhancements:
1. Consider providing capacity improvements to the intersections to reduce driver
frustration and limit queues to the ramps.
2. In the short term, consider installing adaptive signal systems along the corridor and
retiming traffic signals to maximize the capacity of the existing infrastructure.
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Road Safety Audit—Lower Westfield Road – Holyoke, Massachusetts
Prepared by Toole Design Group
Safety Issue #2. Pedestrian and Bicycle Facilities
Observations:
The audit team noted that the majority of the
study area lacks pedestrian or bicycle
facilities. While there were no crashes
reported within the study area, members of the
team noted that there is a path worn through
the grass along the north side of Lower
Westfield Road from pedestrians traveling
along the corridor. Members of the team did
not feel safe while crossing the Interstate
ramps due to the lack of signals and high
Figure 5 - Foot path through the grass.
speed turning geometry at the slip lanes.
Members of the team also noted that the retail development currently under construction adjacent
to the Shell Station and Holyoke Hotel will contribute to higher pedestrian demand in the area.
Potential Enhancements:
1. Consider installing a sidewalk along the north side of Lower Westfield Road between the
terminus of the existing sidewalk adjacent to the Shell Station and Homestead Ave, west
of the study area. This will require modifications to the bridge abutments for the
Interstate 91 overpasses.
2. Consider providing pedestrian crosswalks and signal equipment at the ramp intersections.
3. Consider providing on-street bicycle lanes on Lower Westfield Road between Holyoke
Street and the existing lanes which terminate west of the Interstate 91 southbound ramps.
4. Consider reconstructing the ramp intersections to reduce the radius of or remove the
entrance and exit slip lanes on the north side of Lower Westfield Road, which impede
pedestrian access.
Safety Issue #3. Lack of Left
Turn Lanes
Observations:
The audit team noted that the lack of left turn
lanes for Lower Westfield Road approaching
both of the Interstate 91 ramps. Team
members noted that the left through lanes in
both directions frequently function as defacto
left turn lanes due to the high volume of left
turning traffic. The resulting queueing may
result in rear-end crashes and sideswipe
Figure 6 - Four lane section on Lower Westfield Road.
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Road Safety Audit—Lower Westfield Road – Holyoke, Massachusetts
Prepared by Toole Design Group
crashes as drivers unfamiliar with the area may make sudden lane changes to avoid stopped
vehicles. Vehicles turning left from the off-ramps in the inside left turn lanes frequently have to
weave to the right in a short distance to avoid queues for the left turn to the on-ramps.
Team members discussed options for improving the two intersections. Team members noted the
limited width of the roadway under the Interstate 91 bridges would not allow for widening of
Lower Westfield Road to support left turn lanes without significant bridge modification or bridge
replacement.
Potential Enhancements:
1. Consider reconstructing the interchange including the ramp approaches and Lower
Westfield Road to provide an interchange configuration that provides improved capacity
and safety. Potential alternatives would include:
i. Roundabout interchange, including two lane roundabouts at both ramp
intersections.
ii. Diverging diamond interchange, including two signalized intersections allowing
eastbound and westbound traffic to cross-over and provide entrance and exit
ramps free of left turn conflicts.
iii. Widen the roadway under the Interstate 91 bridges in order to provide two
additional lanes for one left turn lane in each direction. This will likely require
replacement of the Interstate 91 bridges.
Safety Issue #4. Enforcement
Observations:
Officers from the Holyoke Police Department noted that red light running is a frequent problem
at both of the interchange intersections, especially during times of peak traffic congestion.
Drivers have been observed running the red lights on the off-ramp approaches, possibly due to
frustration with congestion. Westbound drivers have also been observed failing to yield to
eastbound during the permissive left turn phase at the southbound on-ramp. Officers also noted
that it is difficult to conduct enforcement during peak traffic periods due to congestion and the
lack of shoulders on Lower Westfield Road, which requires them to block a lane of traffic to
conduct a traffic stop.
Potential Enhancements:
1. Consider having officers instruct drivers to pull over on adjacent side streets or
driveways.
2. Consider providing wider shoulders east and west of the bridge overpass to allow for
vehicles to stop outside of the travel lanes.
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Road Safety Audit—Lower Westfield Road – Holyoke, Massachusetts
Prepared by Toole Design Group
Lower Westfield Road at Interstate 91 Southbound Ramps
Safety Issue #1. Pavement Markings
Observations:
The audit team noted that the Interstate 91
southbound ramp has not been restriped since
it was repaved in October 2014. The team
observed confusion for drivers who are not
aware that the ramp provides dual left turn
lanes. The team also noted that the stop bar
for westbound drivers is located too close to
the intersection, which may be the cause of
angle crashes between left turning drivers
from the dual left turn lanes.
Figure 7 - Missing pavement markings.
The team also noted that the previously
provided arrow markings did not permit for a
through movement from the off-ramp to the on-ramp. While this is not a common movement,
maintenance vehicles do frequently make this movement. Approach widths and receiving widths
for the double left turn movement on the off-ramp are narrower than typical for double turn
movements, and may contribute to sideswipe crashes between left turning vehicles.
Potential Enhancements:
1. Reinstall lane line markings and turn lane arrows on the Interstate 91 southbound ramp
approach. Provide a shared through/left-turn arrow in the outside turn lane.
2. Shift stop bar back at least one car-length on the Lower Westfield Road westbound
approach.
3. Provide lane extension lines to guide turning vehicles from the double left turn lanes.
4. Consider widening the receiving lanes to minimize sideswipe crashes.
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Road Safety Audit—Lower Westfield Road – Holyoke, Massachusetts
Prepared by Toole Design Group
Safety Issue #2. Signage
Observations:
The audit team noted that the lane use sign on
the Interstate 91 southbound approach
indicates LEFT LANE FOR LEFT TURN,
which is not consistent with the dual left turn
configuration. This may be a factor in the two
sideswipe crashes reported between vehicles
turning left. Team members also noted that
the required R1-2 YIELD sign is missing from
the eastbound right turn channelized slip lane
on the southbound on-ramp.
Potential Enhancements:
Figure 8 - Inconsistent lane use signage.
1. Consider replacing the lane use sign
with a standard R3-8 lane use sign indicating the dual left turn configuration.
2. Install a R1-2 YIELD sign on the eastbound right turn channelized slip lane prior to the
merge point on the southbound on-ramp.
Safety Issue #3. Intersection Geometry
Observations:
The audit team noted that four rear-end
crashes occurred between right turning
vehicles within the southbound channelized
right turn lane. This may be the result of
drivers turning their heads to look back for
gaps in traffic and failing to stop for the
vehicle in front due to the angle of the slip
lane approach.
Potential Enhancements:
1. Consider reconstructing the
Figure 9 - Channelized right turn lane on the I-91
channelized right turn lane to remove southbound off-ramp.
the slip lane, converting the approach
to a standard right turn lane. Alternatively, consider reducing the angle of the slip lane to
70 degrees in order to reduce the need for drivers to look over their shoulder while
waiting for a gap in traffic on Lower Westfield Road.
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Road Safety Audit—Lower Westfield Road – Holyoke, Massachusetts
Prepared by Toole Design Group
Lower Westfield Road at Interstate 91 Northbound Ramps
Safety Issue #1. Left Turn Phase
Observations:
Team members noted that due to the coordination between the signals, drivers wishing to turn left
onto Interstate 91 northbound are typically held at the southbound ramp intersection and thus
miss the protected left turn phase, thus increasing the number of cars turning left during the
permissive phase. Members of the team noted that many of the left turn crashes reported at the
Interstate 91 northbound ramps are likely “courtesy crashes” that occur when the left turn queue
from the southbound ramp intersection extends beyond the northbound ramp intersection.
Drivers in the left turn queue allow a vehicle to pass through the queue, resulting in a crash
between the left turning driver and a driver proceeding through in the righthand through lane.
Potential Enhancements:
1. In the short term, consider modifying the signal phasing to provide a lagging left turn
phase, replacing the existing leading left turn phase.
Safety Issue #2. Damaged Drainage Infrastructure
Observations:
The audit team noted that there were two
damaged manhole structures along the north
side of Lower Westfield Road that are
potential tripping or fall hazards for
pedestrians. This damage may be a result of a
crash where a vehicle that lost control while
entering the ramp and came to rest in the field
along the ramp.
Potential Enhancements:
1. Repair damaged manhole structures.
Figure 10 - Damaged manhole cover.
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Road Safety Audit—Lower Westfield Road – Holyoke, Massachusetts
Prepared by Toole Design Group
Safety Issue #3. Right Turn Weaving Issues
Observations:
The audit team noted that the lane
configuration on Lower Westfield Road
eastbound between the northbound ramps and
Whiting Farms Road causes significant
weaving issues, which may be a factor in the
sideswipe crashes both at the ramp intersection
and at the Whiting Farms Road intersection.
The channelized right turn lane from the ramp
feeds directly into the double channelized right
turn lanes for Holyoke Street. Drivers coming
from the northbound off-ramp wishing to
Figure 11 - Vehicles weaving left from the I-91
continue straight on Lower Westfield Road,
Northbound off-ramp.
turn left onto Whiting Farms Road, or turn left
into the Shell Station must weave left one or two lanes within a short 350 foot distance, while
drivers coming from Lower Westfield Road eastbound must weave right to get to the mall.
Potential Enhancements:
1. Consider providing barrier separation between the turn lanes, creating a dedicated lane
from the northbound off-ramp to Holyoke Street southbound. An example of this
treatment may be found at the Interstate 95, Exit 26 northbound off-ramp to Route 20
East in Waltham (recently reconstructed).
2. Consider reconstructing this intersection to remove the channelized right turn lane.
Conduct additional capacity analyses to determine the appropriate lane configuration for
the approach to Lower Westfield Road in order to ensure that queues from the signal do
not extend back onto the Interstate 91 northbound mainline.
Safety Issue #4. Pavement Markings
Observations:
The audit team noted that the double left turn
lane on the northbound approach does not
provide any lane extension lines to guide
vehicles through the intersection, which may
contribute to sideswipe crashes in the
intersection.
Potential Enhancements:
1. Provide lane extension lines to guide
turning vehicles from the double left
turn lanes.
Figure 12 - Lack of markings within the intersection.
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Road Safety Audit—Lower Westfield Road – Holyoke, Massachusetts
Prepared by Toole Design Group
Lower Westfield Road at Whiting Farms Road and Holyoke Street
Safety Issue #1. Pavement Markings
Observations:
The audit team noted that the third eastbound
travel lane is marked with a shared
through/right-turn arrow marking, which is
contrary to the function of the lane, which is
an exclusive through lane. This may
contribute to sideswipe crashes as drivers
make last second lane changes.
Potential Enhancements:
1. Replace the arrow with a straight
arrow marking.
Figure 13 - Incorrect lane use arrows on Lower
Westfield Road.
Safety Issue #2. Pedestrian Facilities
Observations:
The audit team noted that the existing
crosswalks across Whiting Farms Road and
Lower Westfield Road are faded and the
ramps do not meet current ADA accessibility
standards. The existing pedestrian signal
equipment does not provide countdown timers
or ADA accessible push buttons. It was noted
during the audit that the pedestrian signals
were not operational. While no pedestrian
crashes were noted in the crash data, safe
pedestrian facilities are important for people
walking between the retail businesses adjacent
to the intersection.
Figure 14 - Crosswalk across Whitings Farm Road.
Potential Enhancements:
1. In the immediate short-term, repair the existing pedestrian signals.
2. Replace the existing ramps with ADA accessible ramps.
3. Restripe the existing crosswalks.
4. Replace the pedestrian signal equipment with countdown timers and ADA accessible
push buttons.
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Road Safety Audit—Lower Westfield Road – Holyoke, Massachusetts
Prepared by Toole Design Group
Safety Issue #3. Signal Phasing
Observations:
The audit team noted that the recently installed
flashing yellow arrow signal provides a brief
red arrow phase between the end of the
protected turn phase and the beginning of the
permissive through/left-turn phase. Several
noted that this results in confusion, as some
drivers may stop and not notice that the signal
reverts to flashing yellow for the remainder of
the phase, and other drivers may disregard the
red phase as they become familiar with the
signal operation. This could potentially cause
drivers to disregard the red arrow indication in
other locations where flashing yellow arrows
Figure 15 - Left turn signal head for Lower Westfield
are not provided. Research indicates however Road eastbound.
that the brief all-red phase is required in order
to accommodate situations where the westbound phase is skipped.
Members of the team did note that the existing sign for the flashing yellow arrow does not
graphically represent the color of the arrow. The MUTCD indicates that no sign is required for a
flashing yellow arrow signal indication; thus there is no guidance on sign requirements.
Safety Issue #4. Wayfinding
Observations:
The audit team noted that weaving issues on the northbound approach between the double left
turn lanes may result in sideswipe crashes both on the northbound approach and on the
westbound departing leg. Drivers wishing to turn on to the Interstate 91 northbound on-ramp
have a very short distance to weave to the right if they use the inside left turn lane from Holyoke
Street.
Potential Enhancements:
1. Consider providing overhead or sidemounted guide signs on
Holyoke Street northbound including wayfinding for the Interstate
ramps (see the example to the right).
2. Consider providing Interstate Route Shield markings within the
left turn lanes.
Figure 16 - Sample
lane use guide sign.
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Road Safety Audit—Lower Westfield Road – Holyoke, Massachusetts
Prepared by Toole Design Group
Safety Issue #5. Driveway Turn Conflicts
Observations:
The audit team noted that several of the crashes on the Whiting Farms Road southbound approach
and on the Lower Westfield Road eastbound approach are related to the driveways for the Shell
Station and the Holyoke Hotel. The close proximity of the driveways to the signalized
intersection result in difficult left turn movements into and out of the driveways, which may be
blocked by queues and may have limited sight distance to turning traffic. Crashes and near
misses may also occur between drivers turning in and out of the easterly driveway on Lower
Westfield Road and drivers turning left and right onto Lower Westfield Road westbound from
Whiting Farms Road and Holyoke Street, as the multiple conflicts limit reaction time for drivers.
Four crashes, including two with injuries, occurred between drivers turning left into the driveway
on Whiting Farms Road and southbound through vehicles. Members of the team noted that as
part of the retail development adjacent to the hotel, a new traffic signal will be constructed
approximately 500 feet north of Lower Westfield Road, and would provide shared access to the
proposed retail businesses, the Hotel, and the existing Shell gas station.
Potential Enhancements:
1. Work with the property owners to restrict left turns or eliminate the driveways closest to
the intersection on both Whiting Farms Road and Lower Westfield Road.
2. Consider constructing a median on Whiting Farms Road between Lower Westfield Road
and the proposed traffic signal to restrict left turn access.
Summary of Road Safety Audit
Table 2 lists each safety issue and the corresponding potential safety enhancements that were discussed at
the audit and within the previous section. The safety issues and potential safety enhancements are divided
by location. For each observed safety issue and potential safety enhancement, the table includes the safety
payoff, estimated time frame for completion, estimated construction cost, and the responsible agency.
Safety payoff estimates are subjective and may be based on the relative percent of crashes that may be
reduced by the enhancement; for example, low (<30 percent), medium (31 percent to 70 percent), and
high (>71 percent). 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).
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Road Safety Audit—Lower Westfield Road – Holyoke, Massachusetts
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Table 2. Potential Safety Enhancement Summary
Location
Safety Issue
Congestion
Pedestrian and Bicycle
Facilities
Lower Westfield Road
Lack of Left Turn Lanes
Enforcement
Safety Enhancement
Safety
Payoff
Time
Frame
Cost
Responsible
Agency
Consider providing capacity
improvements to reduce frustration
and limit queues to the ramps.
Medium
Mid-term
Medium
Holyoke/
MassDOT
Consider installing adaptive
signals and retiming traffic signals
to maximize the capacity of the
existing infrastructure.
Medium
Short-term
Low
Holyoke/
MassDOT
Consider installing a sidewalk
along the north side of Lower
Westfield Road.
Medium
Mid-term
High
Holyoke/
MassDOT
Consider providing pedestrian
crosswalks and signal equipment
at the ramp intersections.
Low
Mid-term
Medium
Holyoke/
MassDOT
Consider providing on-street bike
lanes on Lower Westfield Road.
Low
Short-term
Low
Holyoke/
MassDOT
Consider removing the right turn
slip lanes on the north side of
Lower Westfield Road.
Medium
Long-term
High
Holyoke/
MassDOT
Consider reconstructing the ramp
approaches and Lower Westfield
Road to a roundabout interchange
at both ramps.
High
Long-term
High
Holyoke/
MassDOT
Consider reconstructing to provide
a diverging diamond interchange.
High
Long-term
High
Holyoke/
MassDOT
Consider reconstructing to provide
left turn lanes in both directions
Medium
Long-term
High
Holyoke/
MassDOT
Consider having officers instruct
drivers to pull over on adjacent
side streets or driveways.
Low
Short-term
Low
City of
Holyoke
Consider providing wide shoulders
outside of the bridge overpass
Low
Long-term
High
City of
Holyoke
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Road Safety Audit—Lower Westfield Road – Holyoke, Massachusetts
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Table 2 (continued). Potential Safety Enhancement Summary
Location
Safety
Payoff
Time
Frame
Cost
Responsible
Agency
Reinstall lane line markings and
turn lane arrows on the I-91
southbound ramp approach.
Low
Short-term
Low
MassDOT
Shift stop bar back at least one
car-length on the Lower Westfield
Road westbound approach.
Low
Short-term
Low
City of
Holyoke
Provide lane extension lines to
guide turning vehicles from the
double left turn lanes.
Low
Short-term
Low
City of
Holyoke
Consider widening the receiving
lanes.
Medium
Long-term
High
Holyoke/
MassDOT
Consider replacing the lane use
sign with standard R3-8 lane use
sign indicating the dual left turn.
Low
Short-term
Low
MassDOT
Install a R1-2 YIELD sign on the
eastbound right turn slip lane.
Medium
Short-term
Low
MassDOT
Intersection Geometry
Consider reconstructing the right
turn slip lane.
Medium
Long-term
High
MassDOT
Left Turn Phase
Consider modifying the signal
phasing to provide a lagging left
turn phase.
Medium
Short-term
Low
MassDOT
Damaged Drainage
Infrastructure
Repair damaged manhole
structures.
Low
Mid-term
Low
MassDOT
Consider providing barrier
separation between the turn lanes.
Medium
Mid-term
Medium
Holyoke/
MassDOT
Consider removing the right turn
slip lane
Medium
Long-term
High
MassDOT
Low
Short-term
Low
City of
Holyoke
Safety Issue
Pavement Markings
Lower Westfield Road at
Interstate 91 Southbound
Ramps
Signage
Lower Westfield Road at
Interstate 91 Northbound
Road
Right Turn Weaving
Issues
Pavement Markings
Safety Enhancement
Provide lane extension lines to
guide turning vehicles from the
double left turn lanes.
Page 19
Road Safety Audit—Lower Westfield Road – Holyoke, Massachusetts
Prepared by Toole Design Group
Table 2 (continued). Potential Safety Enhancement Summary
Location
Safety Issue
Pavement Markings
Pedestrian Facilities
Lower Westfield Road at
Whiting Farms Road and
Holyoke Street
Wayfinding
Safety
Payoff
Time
Frame
Cost
Responsible
Agency
Replace the shared through/rightturn arrow with a straight arrow
marking.
Low
Short-term
Low
City of
Holyoke
Repair the existing pedestrian
signals.
Low
Short-term
Medium
City of
Holyoke
Replace the existing ramps with
ADA accessible ramps.
Low
Mid-term
High
City of
Holyoke
Restripe the existing crosswalks.
Low
Short-term
Low
City of
Holyoke
Replace the pedestrian signal
equipment with countdown timers
and ADA accessible push buttons.
Low
Mid-term
Medium
City of
Holyoke
Consider providing overhead or
side mounted guide signs on
Holyoke Street northbound.
Low
Short-term
Medium
City of
Holyoke
Consider providing Interstate route
shield markings within the left turn
lanes.
Low
Short-term
Low
City of
Holyoke
Medium
Mid-term
Medium
Holyoke/
Property
Owners
Medium
Long-term
High
City of
Holyoke
Safety Enhancement
Work with the property owners to
restrict left turns or eliminate the
driveways closest to the
Driveway Turn Conflicts intersection.
Consider constructing a median to
restrict left turn access.
Page 20
Road Safety Audit—Lower Westfield Road – Holyoke, Massachusetts
Prepared by Toole Design Group
Appendix A. RSA Meeting Agenda
Road Safety Audit
Holyoke
Lower Westfield Rd at I-91 NB/SB & Whiting
Farms Rd
Meeting Location: Jones Ferry River Access Center
Jones Ferry Road, Holyoke, MA
Friday, April 10, 2015
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Type of meeting:
High Crash Locations – Road Safety Audit
Attendees:
Invited Participants to Comprise a Multidisciplinary Team
Please bring:
Thoughts and Enthusiasm!!
9:00 AM
Welcome and Introductions
9:15 AM
Discussion of Safety Issues
• Crash history, Speed Regulations – provided in advance
• Existing Geometries and Conditions
10:15 AM
Site Visit
• Drive to the intersections of Lower Westfield Road at I-91 Ramps and Whiting
Farms Road
• As a group, identify areas for improvement
11:00 AM
Discussion of Potential Improvements
• Discuss observations and finalize safety issue areas
• Discuss potential improvements and finalize recommendations
12:00 PM
Adjourn for the Day – but the RSA has not ended
Instructions for Participants:
• Before attending the RSA on April 10th, participants are encouraged to drive/walk
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—Lower Westfield Road – Holyoke, Massachusetts
Prepared by Toole Design Group
Appendix B. RSA Audit Team Contact List
Road Safety Audit—Lower Westfield Road – Holyoke, Massachusetts
Prepared by Toole Design Group
Audit Team Members Agency/Affiliation
Email Address
Jeff Burkott
City of Holyoke Planning Department
jburkott@holyoke.org
Matt Sokop
City of Holyoke Department of Public Works
sokopm@holyoke.org
Edward Moskal
City of Holyoke Police Department
Edziu158@aol.com
Stephen Loftus
City of Holyoke Police Department
chiefofpolice@holyokepd.org
Lt. John F. Healy
Massachusetts State Police
John.healy@pol.state.ma.us
Khyati Parmar
Pioneer Valley Planning Commission
kparmar@pvpc.org
Thomas Ruta
MassDOT District 2 Design
Thomas.ruta@dot.state.ma.us
Laura Hanson
MassDOT District 2 Projects
Laura.hanson@dot.state.ma.us
Luke Hayes
MassDOT District 2 Traffic
Luke.hayes@dot.state.ma.us
Anne O’Flaherty
MassDOT District 2 Projects
Anne.oflaherty@dot.state.ma.us
Bao Lang
MassDOT District 2 Traffic
Bao.lang@dot.state.ma.us
Lisa Schletzbaum
Mass DOT Safety
Lisa.schletzbaum@dot.state.ma.us
Dave Greenberg
VHB
dgreenberg@vhb.com
John Furman
VHB
jfurman@vhb.com
Patrick Baxter
Toole Design Group (TDG)
pbaxter@tooledesign.com
Shannon Brown
Toole Design Group (TDG)
sbrown@tooledesign.com
Road Safety Audit—Lower Westfield Road – Holyoke, Massachusetts
Prepared by Toole Design Group
Appendix C. Detailed Crash Data
Crash Data Summary Table
Lower Westfield Road & Interstate 91 SB Ramps, Holyoke, MA
January 2012 - December 2014
Crash
Diagram
1
2
3
4
5
6
Crash
Date
1/1/12
5/30/12
5/31/12
7/6/12
7/16/12
8/28/12
Crash Day
Sunday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Monday
Tuesday
Time of Day
12:47 PM
3:39 PM
4:27 PM
4:02 PM
5:17 PM
5:17 PM
Manner of Collision
Angle
Rear-end
Rear-end
Rear-end
Rear-end
Sideswipe, same direction
Light Condition
Daylight
Daylight
Daylight
Daylight
Daylight
Daylight
Weather
Condition
Clear
Clear
Clear
Clear
Clear
Clear
Road Surface
Dry
Dry
Dry
Dry
Dry
Dry
Driver Contributing Code
Inattention
Inattention
Unknown
Inattention
Distracted
Unknown
Unknown
Inattention
Followed too closely
Operating Vehicle in erratic,
reckless, careless, negligent, or
aggressive manner
Inattention
Failure to keep in proper lane or
running off road
Followed too closely
Inattention
Inattention
Followed too closely
32
31
24
41
23
73
Ages
49
64
23
60
38
84
75
62
47
66
28
61
unk
48
24
23
19
28
52
20
24
22
51
25
49
unk
24
58
19
63
47
53
54
Comments
Vehicles sideswiped on double left turn failing to stay in lane
Chain reaction of rear-end collisions due to vehicle stopping to turn left
Vehicle stopped for red light and was struck from behind
Vehicle pulled forward to enter traffic and was struck from behind
Chain reaction of rear-end collisions due to vehicle stopping to turn left
Both operators stated that the other vehicle crossed into their lane
Vehicles were turning left onto Lower Westfield Road and cuased a
sideswipe
Vehicle was looking for opening in traffic when it was struck from behind
Vehicle stopped waiting to turn left and was struck from behind
7
8
9
10/9/12 Tuesday
10/15/12 Monday
12/22/12 Saturday
9:59 AM
8:02 AM
12:45 PM
Angle
Rear-end
Rear-end
Daylight
Daylight
Daylight
Cloudy
Cloudy
Clear
Dry
Dry
Dry
10
11
1/27/13
2/14/13
Sunday
Thursday
4:41 PM
10:03 AM
Single Vehicle Crash
Rear-end
Daylight
Daylight
Clear
Clear
Dry
Dry
12
13
14
15
16
2/15/13
4/2/13
7/30/13
9/1/13
10/8/13
Friday
Tuesday
Tuesday
Sunday
Tuesday
11:48 AM
8:53 AM
4:51 PM
12:26 PM
3:27 PM
Sideswipe, same direction
Rear-end
Rear-end
Rear-end
Rear-end
Clear
Clear
Clear
Cloudy
Clear
Dry
Dry
Dry
Wet
Dry
17
11/7/13
Thursday
4:58 PM
Cloudy
Wet
18
19
12/13/13 Friday
12/19/13 Thursday
7:32 PM
2:56 PM
Cloudy
Clear
Dry
Wet
Unknown
Disregarded traffic signs, signals,
road markings
Followed too closely
20
1/17/14
Friday
7:50 PM
Daylight
Daylight
Daylight
Daylight
Daylight
Dark - lighted
Sideswipe, opposite direction roadway
Dark - lighted
Angle
roadway
Rear-end
Daylight
Dark - lighted
Angle
roadway
Clear
Dry
Failed to yield right of way
17
47
21
1/17/14
Friday
6:54 AM
Rear-end
Daylight
Clear
Ice
Followed too closely
36
37
22
3/22/14
Saturday
6:27 PM
Angle
Daylight
Clear
Dry
Inattention
56
35
23
4/8/14
Tuesday
4:44 PM
Angle
Cloudy
Dry
Failed to yield right of way
38
42
24
25
4/16/14
5/2/14
Wednesday
Friday
8:56 PM
5:35 PM
Rear-end
Rear-end
Clear
Clear
Dry
Dry
Unknown
Followed too closely
43
39
unk
51
Hit and run. Vehicle stopped at red light and was struck from behind
Vehicle slowed near signal and was struck from behind
26
9/6/14
Saturday
8:01 PM
Rear-end
Rain
Wet
Operating defective equiptment
25
18
Vehicle began stopping in traffic and lost traction
27
28
29
11/9/14 Sunday
11/17/14 Monday
12/13/14 Saturday
6:55 PM
3:50 PM
4:20 PM
Rear-end
Angle
Rear-end
Cloudy
Cloudy
Clear
Dry
Wet
Dry
Inattention
Inattention
Inattention
25
37
52
43
64
25
Vehicle slowed to turn left at the signal and was struck from behind
Vehicle turned left into on ramp and was struck by a run on red vehicle
Vehicle stopped at red light and was struck from behind
30
12/19/14 Friday
11:16 PM
Rear-end
Clear
Dry
Inattention
18
33
31
12/21/14 Sunday
7:58 PM
Angle
Rain
Wet
Inattention
36
19
Left turning vehicle stated they did not see the opposing vehicle
Left turning vehicle failed to clear right-of-way and was struck by opposing
vehicle
32
12/21/14 Sunday
5:25 PM
Angle
Daylight
Dark - lighted
roadway
Daylight
Dark - lighted
roadway
Dark - lighted
roadway
Dusk
Dusk
Dark - lighted
roadway
Dark - lighted
roadway
Dark - lighted
roadway
Left turning vehicle stated they did not see the opposing vehicle
Vehicle slowed to allow another vehicle to merge onto ramp and was struck
from behind
Operator stated that they had a green light and proceeded through the
intersection when they were struck from the side
Left turning vehicle failed to clear right-of-way and was struck by opposing
vehicle
Unknown
26
31
Vehicle slowed waiting to merge and was struck from behind
33
12/21/14 Sunday
7:10 AM
Single Vehicle Crash
Dawn
No Improper Driving
27
Clear
Wet
Sleet, Hail,
Freezing Rain Ice
21
Manner of Collision was incorrect on report. Chain reaction of rear-end
collisions due to vehicle stopping to turn left
Vehicle was looking for opening in traffic when it was struck from behind
Vehicle attempted to change lanes and did not see the vehicle next to then
causing a sideswipe
Vehicle attempting to merge slowed and was struck from behind
Vehicle was looking for opening in traffic when it was struck from behind
Vehicles turning left onto Lower Westfield Rd from the same lane
Vehicle slowed for turning vehicles ahead when it was struck from behind
Crash was an angle from a left turning vehicle crossing opposing traffic
Left turning vehicle failed to clear right-of-way and was struck by opposing
vehicle
Vehicle stopped for red light and was struck from behind
Vehicle lost control going down the ramp and struck a sign
*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.
Summary based on Crash Reports obtained from the Local and State Police Department
Crash Data Summary Tables and Charts
Lower Westfield Road & Interstate 91 SB Ramps, Holyoke, MA
CRASH MONTH
30%
24%
25%
20%
15%
12%
9%
10%
9%
9%
6%
9%
9%
O
N
6%
3%
5%
3%
0%
0%
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
D
CRASH DAY OF WEEK
25%
21%
20%
15%
10%
21%
18%
12%
12%
9%
6%
5%
0%
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
CRASH TIME OF DAY
33%
35%
30%
25%
20%
15%
10%
6%
9%
6%
15%
12%
9%
6%
3%
5%
0%
0%
0%
0%
6AM- 8AM
8AM10AM
10AM12PM
12PM2PM
2PM- 4PM 4PM- 6PM 6PM- 8PM
8PM10PM
10PM12AM
12AM2AM
2AM- 4AM 4AM- 6AM
CRASH MANNER OF COLLISION
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%
58%
27%
6%
Single
Vehicle
Crash
Rear-end
Angle
OLYOKE_I91SB-WestieldRd_CrashSummary.xlsx
6%
3%
0%
Sideswipe,
same
direction
Sideswipe,
opposite
direction
Head on
1 of 2
0%
0%
Rear to Rear Unknown
3/19/2015
Crash Data Summary Tables and Charts
Lower Westfield Road & Interstate 91 SB Ramps, Holyoke, MA
CRASH LIGHT CONDITION
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%
64%
27%
Daylight
3%
6%
Dawn
Dusk
0%
0%
Dark Dark Dark Lighted Roadway not unknown
roadway
lighted
Roadway
lighting
0%
0%
Other
Unknown
CRASH WEATHER CONDITION
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%
67%
24%
6%
Clear
Cloudy
3%
0%
Rain
Snow
0%
0%
0%
Sleet, Hail, Fog, Smog,
Severe
Blowing
Freezing
Smoke
Crosswinds sand, snow
Rain
0%
0%
Other
Unknown
CRASH ROAD SURFACE
80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%
73%
21%
6%
0%
Dry
Wet
Snow
Ice
0%
0%
Sand, mud, Water
dirt, oil, (standing,
moving)
gravel
0%
0%
0%
Slush
Other
Unknown
CRASH DRIVER AGES
28%
30%
25%
18%
20%
15%
15%
12%
11%
11%
10%
3%
5%
2%
0%
15-20
21-29
30-39
OLYOKE_I91SB-WestieldRd_CrashSummary.xlsx
40-49
2 of 2
50-59
60-69
70-79
80+
3/19/2015
Crash Data Summary Table
Lower Westfield Road & Interstate 91 NB Ramps, Holyoke, MA
January 2012 - December 2014
Crash
Diagram
Crash
Date
Crash Day
Time of Day
1
1/14/12
Saturday
5:12 PM
Rear-end
2
3
4
5
1/16/12
1/29/12
2/24/12
4/17/12
Monday
Sunday
Friday
Tuesday
5:22 PM
4:24 PM
5:26 PM
4:53 PM
6
4/28/12
Saturday
1:57 PM
7
5/15/12
Tuesday
8
6/13/12
Wednesday
9
10
11
12
6/25/12
8/24/12
11/18/12
12/14/12
Monday
Friday
Sunday
Friday
4:48 PM
5:27 PM
2:07 PM
11:39 AM
Angle
Rear-end
Rear-end
Sideswipe, same direction
13
12/30/12
Sunday
4:40 PM
Angle
14
15
3/20/13
5/11/13
Wednesday
Saturday
4:29 PM
2:13 PM
Angle
Angle
16
17
6/2/13
6/28/13
Sunday
Friday
2:05 AM
1:40 PM
18
19
20
9/28/13
10/16/13
11/16/13
Saturday
Wednesday
Saturday
21
22
11/29/13
12/2/13
23
Manner of Collision
Weather
Condition
Comments
Clear
Dry
Followed too closely
27
52
Vehicle stopped at the traffic signal and was struck from behind
Rear-end
Rear-end
Single Vehicle Crash
Rear-end
Light Condition
Dark - lighted
roadway
Dark - lighted
roadway
Daylight
roadway
Daylight
Clear
Clear
Rain
Clear
Dry
Dry
Wet
Dry
Followed too closely
Followed too closely
No Improper Driving
Distracted
42
23
39
62
51
25
19
Single Vehicle Crash
Daylight
Clear
Dry
25
34
2:40 PM
Angle
Rain
Wet
22
16
Vehicle ran a red light and stated they did not no what the traffic signal color was
11:11 PM
Angle
Daylight
Dark - lighted
roadway
Failed to yield right of way
Disregarded traffic signs, signals,
road markings
Vehicle stopped in traffic and was struck from behind
Vehicle was slowing for yellow signal and was struck from behind
Vehicle swerved hard to avoid stopped vehicle and struck light pole
Vehicle slowed to turn left and was struck from behind by a distracted driver
Incorrect Manner on Report (Angle Collision) Left turning vehicle stated they did not
see the opposing vehicle
Clear
Dry
Failed to yield right of way
41
28
Daylight
Daylight
Daylight
Daylight
Dark - lighted
roadway
Clear
Clear
Clear
Clear
Dry
Dry
Dry
Dry
No Improper Driving
Followed too closely
Inattention
No Improper Driving
56
59
36
55
unk
20
48
23
Clear
Dry
28
20
Clear
Cloudy
Dry
Wet
38
unk
38
75
Angle
Angle
Daylight
Daylight
Dark - lighted
roadway
Daylight
Clear
Clear
Dry
Dry
22
41
25
46
10:53 AM
2:09 PM
4:27 AM
Angle
Rear-end
Rear-end
Daylight
Daylight
Daylight
Clear
Cloudy
Clear
Dry
Dry
Dry
Visibility Obstructed
Disregarded traffic signs, signals,
road markings
Inattention
Failure to keep in proper lane or
running off road
Failed to yield right of way
Disregarded traffic signs, signals,
road markings
Distracted
Followed too closely
Vehicle turning left failed to yield to right-of-way was struck by oncoming vehicle
A vehicle turning left was struck by oncoming traffic. The oncoming vehicle left the
scene of the drash. Hit and Run
Vehicle stopped for a red signal and was struck from behind
Vehicle stopped for a red signal and was struck from behind
Vehicle entered Roadway from ramp and was struck by vehicle changing lanes
Operator stated they were obstructed by queued vehicles while making left hand
turn
41
16
19
48
27
53
Friday
Monday
4:12 PM
10:07 AM
Sideswipe, same direction
Rear-end
Daylight
Daylight
Clear
Clear
Dry
Dry
No Improper Driving
Distracted
32
70
59
25
12/7/13
Saturday
3:25 PM
Head on
Daylight
Clear
Dry
Failed to yield right of way
unk
63
24
12/12/13
Thursday
3:43 PM
Angle
Daylight
Clear
Dry
No Improper Driving
43
25
25
12/24/13
Tuesday
3:09 PM
Rear-end
Dry
Inattention
21
20
12/30/13
1/4/14
1/10/14
Monday
Saturday
Friday
6:18 PM
1:09 PM
8:11 AM
Angle
Rear-end
Rear-end
Daylight
Dark - lighted
roadway
Daylight
Daylight
Clear
26
27
28
Clear
Clear
Snow
Dry
Snow
Snow
Unknown
Followed too closely
Other improper action
21
23
21
61
50
20
29
5/27/14
Tuesday
12:02 PM
Head on
Daylight
Clear
Wet
Inattention
50
unk
30
5/29/14
Thursday
3:14 PM
Rear-end
Daylight
Clear
Dry
Followed too closely
39
unk
31
32
6/2/14
10/11/14
Monday
Saturday
4:22 AM
3:23 PM
Single Vehicle Crash
Rear-end
Clear
Clear
Dry
Dry
Fatigued/asleep
Followed too closely
25
22
25
33
11/7/14
Friday
5:22 PM
Rear-end
34
11/24/14
Monday
6:56 PM
Angle
Dawn
Daylight
Dark - lighted
roadway
Dark - lighted
roadway
35
12/4/14
Thursday
9:25 AM
Rear-end
36
12/6/14
Saturday
6:41 PM
Angle
37
12/10/14
Wednesday
5:08 PM
Angle
38
12/14/14
Sunday
5:10 PM
Angle
39
40
41
12/19/14
12/19/14
12/21/15
Friday
Friday
Monday
5:46 PM
2:33 PM
4:03 PM
Angle
Rear-end
Angle
Daylight
Dark - lighted
roadway
Dark - lighted
roadway
Dark - lighted
roadway
Dark - lighted
roadway
Daylight
Daylight
Road Surface
Driver Contributing Code
Ages
Vehicle entering from the ramp failed to stop at a red signal
Vehicle attempting to make left hand turn to ramp was struck by oncoming traffic
Manner of Collision incorrect on report. Vehicle attemping to avoid a read-end
sideswiped the vehicle in the adjacent lane
Vehicle turning left failed to yield to right-of-way was struck by oncoming vehicle
Vehicle entering from the ramp failed to stop at a red signal
Vehicle stopped at the traffic signal and was struck from behind
Vehicle stopped at the traffic signal and was struck from behind
A truck took a large turn in a double left and struck the vehicle travelling in the
adjacent lane making the turn
Operator was distracted by her baby and struck the vehicle in front
Operator stated they were obstructed by queued vehicles while making left hand
turn and struck oncoming vehicle which left the scene
Vehicle making a left hand turn saw the traffic hold to allow them to make the turn
and struck an oncoming vehicle in the far lane
Operator stated they thought the light turned green and struck the vehicle in front of
them
Vehicle turning left failed to yield to right-of-way was struck by oncoming vehicle
Vehicle backing at intersection struck the following vehicle
Vehicle was waiting at red light when it turned green and was struck from behind
Hit and Run Crash. Driver was distracted causing them to veer into the opposite
travel lane and strick the oncoming vehicle
Vehicle entering from the ramp was yielding to traffic when it was struck from
behind.
Vehicle entering the ramp at a high speed left the roadway and came to rest in field
along ramp
Vehicle was slowing when it was struck from behind
Clear
Dry
Unknown
22
30
Cloudy
Wet
Inattention
25
20
Cloudy
Dry
Followed too closely
53
61
Rain
Wet
35
Wet
Failed to yield right of way
Disregarded traffic signs, signals,
road markings
50
Snow
36
40
Clear
Dry
Failed to yield right of way
44
33
Vehicle ran a red light and was struck by vehicle entering traffic from ramp
Vehicle making a left hand turn saw the traffic hold to allow them to make the turn
and struck an oncoming vehicle in the far lane
Clear
Cloudy
Clear
Dry
Dry
Wet
No Improper Driving
Followed too closely
Inattention
19
44
66
68
38
32
Vehicle turning left failed to yield to right-of-way was struck by oncoming vehicle
Vehicle stopped in traffic and was struck from behind
Vehicle turning left failed to yield to right-of-way was struck by oncoming vehicle
30
45
Vehicle turning left failed to yield to right-of-way was struck by oncoming vehicle
Vehicles entering from NB off ramp began to take left hand turn when the vehicle
slowed abruptly causing them to be struck from behind
Vehicle making a left hand turn saw the traffic hold to allow them to make the turn
and struck an oncoming vehicle in the far lane
Crash Data Summary Table
Lower Westfield Road & Interstate 91 NB Ramps, Holyoke, MA
January 2012 - December 2014
Crash
Diagram
42
Crash
Date
Crash Day
Time of Day
12/27/14
Saturday
5:11 PM
Manner of Collision
Angle
Light Condition
Dark - lighted
roadway
Weather
Condition
Clear
Road Surface
Dry
Driver Contributing Code
Inattention
Comments
Ages
30
17
20
Vehicle turning left failed to yield to right-of-way was struck by crossing traffic
*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.
Summary based on Crash Reports obtained from the Local and State Police
Crash Data Summary Tables and Charts
Lower Westfield Road & Interstate 91 NB Ramps, Holyoke, MA
CRASH MONTH
40%
35%
30%
25%
20%
15%
10%
5%
0%
36%
12%
10%
2%
2%
F
M
J
12%
12%
5%
0%
A
M
J
2%
2%
A
S
J
5%
O
N
D
CRASH DAY OF WEEK
24%
25%
20%
21%
17%
15%
12%
10%
10%
10%
7%
5%
0%
Monday
40%
35%
30%
25%
20%
15%
10%
5%
0%
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
CRASH TIME OF DAY
38%
24%
7%
5%
10%
7%
0%
6AM- 8AM
45%
40%
35%
30%
25%
20%
15%
10%
5%
0%
Tuesday
2%
0%
8AM10AM
10AM12PM
40%
12PM2PM
2PM- 4PM 4PM- 6PM 6PM- 8PM
8PM10PM
10PM12AM
5%
5%
2AM- 4AM 4AM- 6AM
5%
0%
Rear-end
12AM2AM
2%
CRASH MANNER OF COLLISION
43%
7%
Single
Vehicle
Crash
0%
Angle
OLYOKE_I91NB-WestieldRd_CrashSummary.xlsx
Sideswipe,
same
direction
1 of 2
Sideswipe,
opposite
direction
0%
Head on
0%
Rear to Rear Unknown
3/19/2015
Crash Data Summary Tables and Charts
Lower Westfield Road & Interstate 91 NB Ramps, Holyoke, MA
CRASH LIGHT CONDITION
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%
64%
33%
Daylight
2%
0%
0%
Dawn
Dusk
Dark Dark Dark Lighted Roadway not unknown
roadway
lighted
Roadway
lighting
0%
0%
0%
Other
Unknown
CRASH WEATHER CONDITION
80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%
76%
12%
Clear
Cloudy
7%
5%
Rain
Snow
0%
0%
0%
0%
Sleet, Hail, Fog, Smog,
Severe
Blowing
Freezing
Smoke
Crosswinds sand, snow
Rain
0%
0%
Other
Unknown
CRASH ROAD SURFACE
80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%
76%
19%
5%
Dry
Wet
0%
Snow
Ice
0%
0%
Sand, mud, Water
dirt, oil, (standing,
moving)
gravel
0%
0%
0%
Slush
Other
Unknown
CRASH DRIVER AGES
35%
30%
25%
20%
15%
10%
5%
0%
33%
17%
14%
14%
13%
7%
2%
15-20
21-29
30-39
OLYOKE_I91NB-WestieldRd_CrashSummary.xlsx
40-49
2 of 2
50-59
60-69
70-79
0%
80+
3/19/2015
Crash Data Summary Table
Lower Westfield Road at Whiting Farms Road & Holyoke Street ; Holyoke, MA
January 2012 - December 2014
Crash
Diagram
Crash
Date
Crash Day
Time of Day
1
1/11/12
Wednesday
5:50 PM
Angle
Dark - lighted roadway Clear
Dry
Failed to yield right of way
35
59
Vehicle turning into shell station failed to clear right-of-way striking oncoming vehicle
2
1/19/12
Thursday
8:12 PM
Rear-end
Dark - lighted roadway Snow
Snow
Driving too fast for conditions
23
46
Vehicle lost traction due to snow and was unable to stop at red light striking car in rear
3
4/22/12
Sunday
1:36 PM
Rear-end
Daylight
Cloudy
Wet
Driving too fast for conditions
24
37
4
5/11/12
Friday
3:06 PM
Sideswipe, same direction
Daylight
Clear
Dry
Made an improper turn
33
48
Vehicle lost traction due to snow and was unable to stop in traffic striking car in rear
Vehicle stopped abruptly to allow vehicle to enter the shell gas station causing the
following vehicle to rear-end
5
6
5/11/12
7/4/12
Friday
Wednesday
11:41 AM
11:16 AM
Rear-end
Head on
Daylight
Daylight
Clear
Clear
Dry
Dry
Followed too closely
Inattention
20
45
68
33
7
8
9/13/12
9/20/12
Thursday
Thursday
10:50 AM
12:00 PM
Rear to Rear
Rear-end
Daylight
Daylight
Clear
Clear
Dry
Dry
Followed too closely
Distracted
53
53
44
46
9
11/2/12
Friday
11:40 AM
Angle
Daylight
Cloudy
Dry
Failed to yield right of way
45
35
10
11/3/12
Saturday
8:19 PM
Sideswipe, same direction
Dark - lighted roadway Clear
Dry
Inattention
unk
18
11
11/9/12
Friday
12:19 PM
Angle
Daylight
Clear
Dry
Failed to yield right of way
21
48
12
11/15/12
Thursday
7:07 PM
Angle
Dark - lighted roadway Clear
Dry
Inattention
44
21
13
12/17/12
Monday
5:51 PM
Sideswipe, same direction
Dusk
Cloudy
Wet
29
31
14
12/26/12
Wednesday
12:07 PM
Angle
Daylight
Clear
Dry
Made an improper turn
Failure to keep in proper lane or
running off road
54
36
15
1/15/13
Tuesday
3:28 PM
Angle
Daylight
Clear
Dry
48
19
16
1/26/13
Saturday
2:48 PM
Angle
Daylight
Clear
Dry
Failed to yield right of way
Failure to keep in proper lane or
running off road
Manner of collission is incorrect (sideswipe, same direction).
Vehicle attempted to make an illegal U-turn near the intersection and was struck by
adjacent vehicle
57
28
Vehicle attempted to change lanes and sideswiped th e adjacent vehicle
17
2/3/13
Sunday
4:58 PM
Angle
Dark - lighted roadway Clear
Dry
Failed to yield right of way
46
23
18
19
2/16/13
5/22/12
Saturday
Tuesday
1:34 PM
6:33 PM
Rear-end
Rear-end
Daylight
Daylight
Clear
Clear
Dry
Dry
Unknown
Inattention
26
39
unk
22
20
21
5/31/13
12/6/13
Friday
Friday
10:13 AM
12:54 PM
Angle
Rear-end
Daylight
Daylight
Clear
Rain
Dry
Wet
Inattention
Followed too closely
36
48
52
35
Vehicle ran a red light being struck by vehicle heading west
Hit and Run Crash. Vehicle was backing to allow vehicle out of gas station and struck
the vehicle behind and then fled the scene
Vehicle stopped and was struck from behind at signal
Vehicle turning left into the gas station failed to clear the right-of-way and struck
oncoming traffic in the far lane cited they did not see them
Vehicle was slowing for traffic and was struck from behind
Vehicle stopped at signal and the following vehicle was unable to stop due to weather
conditions
Manner of Collision
Light Condition
Weather
Condition
Road Surface
Driver Contributing Code
Comments
Ages
22
12/17/13
Tuesday
9:00 PM
Rear-end
Dark - lighted roadway Snow
Snow
No Improper Driving
22
39
23
12/23/13
Monday
5:09 PM
Angle
Dark - lighted roadway Rain
Wet
Unknown
60
23
24
1/6/14
Monday
12:01 PM
Angle
Daylight
Cloudy
Wet
27
83
25
1/11/14
Saturday
2:09 PM
Rear-end
Daylight
Rain
Wet
Inattention
Operating Vehicle in erratic, reckless,
careless, negligent, or aggressive
manner
21
37
26
5/23/14
Friday
4:54 PM
Rear-end
Daylight
Cloudy
Dry
Unknown
24
39
27
7/22/14
Tuesday
11:26 AM
Angle
Daylight
Clear
Dry
Made an improper turn
38
29
28
8/21/14
Thursday
4:06 PM
Rear-end
Daylight
Clear
Dry
Followed too closely
36
19
29
8/27/14
Wednesday
11:35 AM
Rear-end
Daylight
Clear
Dry
45
82
30
31
9/28/14
10/15/14
Sunday
Wednesday
11:30 AM
8:22 AM
Sideswipe, same direction
Rear-end
Daylight
Daylight
Clear
Cloudy
Dry
Wet
Unknown
Failure to keep in proper lane or
running off road
Followed too closely
36
24
17
19
32
33
11/28/14
11/28/14
Friday
Friday
10:44 AM
1:09 PM
Rear-end
Sideswipe, same direction
Daylight
Daylight
Clear
Clear
Dry
Dry
Failed to yield right of way
No Improper Driving
74
56
58
46
34
12/6/14
Saturday
12:48 PM
Rear-end
Daylight
Rain
Wet
Unknown
26
unk
37
Vehicle stopped in traffic and was struck from behind causing a chain reaction crash
Vehicle turning left did not clear the right-of-way and struck oncoming traffic
Manner was incorrect on report. Vehicle was stopped at signal and was struck from
behind
Vehicle stopped to turn left and was struck from behind
Vehicle turning left into the gas station failed to clear the right-of-way and struck
oncoming traffic
Vehicles were taking double left turn in adjacent lanes and sideswiped
Vehicle turning left into the gas station failed to clear the right-of-way and struck
oncoming traffic
Vehicles were taking double left turn in adjacent lanes and sideswiped
Vehicles were taking double left turn when the vehicle in the left lane attempted to
enter the gas station and sideswiped
Vehicle was existing the gas station and was struck by vehicle heading south
Both vehicles attempting to exit the gas station onto the roadway and the stopped
vehicle was struck in the side
31
Vehicle attempted to change lanes while travelling too closely and struck the rear of
the vehicle in front
Vehicle was stopped at a red light when they were struck from behind causing a chain
reaction
Vehicle turning into shell station failed to clear right-of-way striking oncoming vehicle
22
Vehicles were waiting at signal when the middle vehicle began to move prior to green
causing the following vehicle to strike the rear which then caused a chain reaction
Vehicle in front stated they were struck from behind. Vehicle behind stated the other
vehicle was backing up
Vehicles turning onto Holyoke street where one vehicle attempted to change lanes
and sideswiped the adjacent vehicle
Vehicle was slowing for traffic and was struck from behind
Vehicle exited from Peir1 when it was struck by vehicle backing up attempting to enter
the CVS
Vehicle attempted to change lanes and sideswiped th e adjacent vehicle
Hit and Run Crash. Vehicle changed lanes and struck the rear of the vehicle
approaching signal
Crash Data Summary Table
Lower Westfield Road at Whiting Farms Road & Holyoke Street ; Holyoke, MA
January 2012 - December 2014
Crash
Date
Crash Day
Time of Day
35
12/22/14
Monday
7:42 PM
Angle
Dark - lighted roadway Cloudy
Dry
Driver Contributing Code
Failure to keep in proper lane or
running off road
35
19
36
12/22/14
Monday
3:52 PM
Angle
Daylight
Dry
Unknown
53
34
Crash
Diagram
Manner of Collision
Light Condition
Weather
Condition
Cloudy
Road Surface
Ages
Comments
Vehicles were travelling adjacent when one vehicle attempted to change lanes failing
to clear the right-of-way
Vehicle was stuck in the middle of the intersection due to traffic during a red signal
and was struck by vehicle travelling east
*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.
Summary based on Crash Reports obtained from the Local Police Department
Crash Data Summary Tables and Charts
Lower Westfield Road at Whiting Farms Road & Holyoke Street ; Holyoke, MA
CRASH MONTH
25%
20%
22%
17%
17%
14%
15%
8%
10%
6%
6%
6%
3%
5%
3%
0%
0%
0%
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
CRASH DAY OF WEEK
30%
25%
25%
20%
15%
14%
14%
14%
14%
11%
8%
10%
5%
0%
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
CRASH TIME OF DAY
30%
25%
25%
25%
20%
17%
14%
15%
8%
10%
5%
8%
3%
0%
0%
0%
10PM12AM
12AM2AM
0%
0%
0%
6AM- 8AM
8AM10AM
10AM12PM
12PM2PM
2PM- 4PM 4PM- 6PM 6PM- 8PM
8PM10PM
2AM- 4AM 4AM- 6AM
CRASH MANNER OF COLLISION
45%
40%
35%
30%
25%
20%
15%
10%
5%
0%
42%
39%
14%
0%
Single
Vehicle
Crash
0%
Rear-end
Angle
Sideswipe,
same
direction
OLYOKE_WestfieldRd-WhitingFarmsRd_CrashSummary.xlsx 1 of 2
Sideswipe,
opposite
direction
3%
Head on
3%
0%
Rear to Rear Unknown
3/19/2015
Crash Data Summary Tables and Charts
Lower Westfield Road at Whiting Farms Road & Holyoke Street ; Holyoke, MA
CRASH LIGHT CONDITION
80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%
75%
22%
Daylight
0%
3%
0%
Dawn
Dusk
Dark Dark Dark Lighted Roadway not unknown
roadway
lighted
Roadway
lighting
0%
0%
0%
Other
Unknown
CRASH WEATHER CONDITION
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%
61%
22%
11%
Clear
Cloudy
6%
Rain
0%
Snow
0%
0%
0%
Sleet, Hail, Fog, Smog,
Severe
Blowing
Freezing
Smoke
Crosswinds sand, snow
Rain
0%
0%
Other
Unknown
CRASH ROAD SURFACE
80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%
72%
22%
6%
Dry
Wet
0%
Snow
Ice
0%
0%
Sand, mud, Water
dirt, oil, (standing,
moving)
gravel
0%
0%
0%
Slush
Other
Unknown
CRASH DRIVER AGES
30%
26%
27%
25%
18%
20%
15%
10%
12%
10%
3%
5%
1%
3%
0%
15-20
21-29
30-39
40-49
OLYOKE_WestfieldRd-WhitingFarmsRd_CrashSummary.xlsx 2 of 2
50-59
60-69
70-79
80+
3/19/2015