Road Safety Audit
Southbridge Road (Route 20) at Leicester Street (Route 56)
Oxford, MA
Prepared for:
Massachusetts Department of Transportation – Highway Division
January 2015
Prepared by:
695 Atlantic Avenue
Boston, MA 02111
Road Safety Audit – Southbridge Road (Route 20) at Leicester Street (Route 56), Oxford, MA
Prepared by HDR Engineering, Inc.
Table of Contents
BACKGROUND......................................................................................................................... 2
PROJECT DATA ....................................................................................................................... 2
PROJECT LOCATION DESCRIPTION ..................................................................................... 3
ROAD SAFETY AUDIT OBSERVATIONS ................................................................................ 3
POTENTIAL ENHANCEMENTS/COUNTERMEASURES ......................................................... 7
List of Tables
Table 1
Table 2
Audit Team Members
Summary of Potential Enhancements
List of Figures
Figure 1
Locus Map
List of Appendices
Appendix A
Appendix B
Appendix C
Appendix D
Appendix E
RSA Meeting Agenda
RSA Audit Team Attendance/Contact List
Collision Diagram
Crash Data Summary Tables
Detailed Crash Data
Page 1
Road Safety Audit – Southbridge Road (Route 20) at Leicester Street (Route 56), Oxford, MA
Prepared by HDR Engineering, Inc.
Background
The Federal Highway Administration defines a Road Safety Audit (RSA) as the formal safety
examination of an existing or future road or intersection by an independent, multidisciplinary
team. The purpose of an RSA is to identify potential safety issues and possible opportunities for
safety improvements considering all roadway users.
A RSA is intended to identify potential safety improvements that can be evaluated and included
as part of short term/low cost improvements by the responsible agency or as long term
improvements as part of any proposed roadway reconstruction.
The intersection of Southbridge Road (Route 20) and Leicester Street (Route 56) was identified
as a Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) cluster. A HSIP eligible cluster is one in
which the total number of "equivalent property damage only" crashes in the cluster is within the
top 5% of all clusters in that region. "Equivalent property damage only" is a method of
combining the number of crashes with the severity of crashes based on a weighted scale. HSIP
eligible locations require a RSA during the design phase as part of reconstruction projects
funded through the STIP.
The study intersection is part of MassDOT project number 602659, Reconstruction of Route 20,
beginning at Richardson's Corner in Charlton and extending east 3.2 miles to Route 12 in
Oxford.
Project Data
A Road Safety Audit for the intersection of Southbridge Road (Route 20) and Leicester Street
(Route 56) was held on October 27, 2014 at the Oxford Police Department in Oxford, MA. As
indicated in Table 1, the audit team consisted of representatives from State, Regional and Local
agencies and included a cross-section of engineering, planning, and emergency response
expertise. A representative from the Connecticut Department of Transportation (ConnDOT) was
also present to observe and participate in the MassDOT RSA process.
Table 1 – Audit Team Members
Audit Team Member
Paul Bakis
Alicia Nitsch
Dan Daniska
Kevin Krasnecky
Lieutenant Anthony Saad
Captain Kenneth Sellers
Sean Divoll
Joe Ouellette
Joe Frawley
Lola Campbell
Lisa Schletzbaum
Agency/Affiliation
HDR
HDR
Central Massachusetts Regional Planning Commission
Central Massachusetts Regional Planning Commission
Oxford Police Department
Oxford Fire-EMS
Oxford DPW
ConnDOT – State Safety Engineer
MassDOT – District 3 Traffic Operations Engineer
MassDOT – District 3 Assistant Traffic Engineer
MassDOT - Road Safety Audit Coordinator
Prior to the RSA, the audit team reviewed collision diagrams and a crash detail summary for the
Route 20/Route 56 intersections based on crash records supplied by the Oxford Police
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Road Safety Audit – Southbridge Road (Route 20) at Leicester Street (Route 56), Oxford, MA
Prepared by HDR Engineering, Inc.
Department and the Massachusetts State Police. Sixty-one crashes were reported and
documented between January, 2009 and August, 2014. Over half of the crashes, 35 (or 57%)
were rear end crashes while 21 (or 34%) were angle crashes. Forty-two crashes (or 69%)
occurred in the daylight while 15 (or 25%) occurred at night. Four crashes (or 7%) occurred at
dawn or dusk. 43 crashes (or 70%) occurred on dry pavement while 18 crashes occurred on
wet pavement. No fatalities were reported in the 61 crashes but 14 crashes (or 23%) involved
personal injuries.
Project Location Description
US Route 20 is a coast‐to‐coast highway running from Kenmore Square in Boston westerly into
New York State and eventually to its terminus in Newport, Oregon. At 3,365 miles long, the
highway is the longest road in the United States. In Massachusetts, Route 20 runs nearly
parallel to I‐90, intersecting it at exits 2 and 10A. Route 20 is an undivided four‐lane facility with
a regulatory speed limit of 40 MPH through the study intersection. The eastbound speed limit
on Route 20 approaching the intersection is 40 MPH regulatory and posted. In the westbound
direction, the speed limit is 40 MPH regulatory however, is posted as 45 MPH. The travel lanes
are approximately 11‐foot wide with one‐foot shoulders approaching the intersection. Route 20
is abutted by a combination of residential and commercial land uses. Route 20 is under the
jurisdiction of MassDOT.
Route 56 is classified as a major rural collector and is under Town of Oxford jurisdiction within
the project area. Route 56 north of Route 20 is a two lane roadway with an approximate 40‐foot
cross‐section; sidewalks are provided on each side of the roadway. Route 56 is abutted by both
commercial and residential land uses. The posted speed limit on Route 56 between Route 20
and Route 12 is 30 MPH. The posted speed limit north of Route 20 is 50 MPH. The intersection
is controlled by a three‐phase fully‐actuated traffic signal with an exclusive, push‐button
activated, pedestrian phase. The traffic signal is equipped with emergency preemption and
video‐detection. The northbound Route 56 approach consists of a 13.5‐foot wide general
purpose lane with a one and a half‐foot shoulder. The northbound approach has a posted speed
limit of 30 MPH. The southbound Route 56 approach consists of one 11‐foot wide left‐turn only
lane and one 11‐foot wide through‐right lane with a one‐foot shoulder. The southbound
approach has a left‐turn storage length of approximately 240 feet and a posted speed limit of 50
MPH. The eastbound and westbound Route 20 approaches each consist of three 11‐foot wide
lanes: a left‐turn only lane, a through lane and a through‐right lane with a one‐foot shoulder. The
eastbound and westbound left‐turn lanes each have storage lengths of approximately 125 feet.
A scored concrete median separates the eastbound and westbound directions at the
intersection. Crosswalks and pedestrian signal heads are provided across each leg of the
intersection.
Road Safety Audit Observations
Based on the crash data, RSA team discussion and field observations on Monday October 27,
2014, RSA team members determined that the intersection of Southbridge Road (Route 20) at
Leicester Street (Route 56) had the following issues that affect safety:
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Road Safety Audit – Southbridge Road (Route 20) at Leicester Street (Route 56), Oxford, MA
Prepared by HDR Engineering, Inc.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Driver Inattention & Enforcement
Traffic Signal Equipment
Traffic Signal Timing
Pavement Condition
Roadway Signage
Roadway Capacity
Roadway Geometry
Speed
Bicycle Accommodation
Vegetative Overgrowth
The following sections describe in more detail the safety issues identified during the RSA.
Driver Inattention & Enforcement
RSA team members commented that driver inattention was a contributing factor, particularly in
rear end crashes, based on the detailed crash reports obtained from the police departments
(Oxford and Massachusetts State Police). Noted driver inattention actions in the crash reports
included looking away from the road and changing the radio station.
Additionally, Oxford Police indicated there is limited space available to stop motorists. Although
some motorists will turn into parking lots, others will stop in the travel lanes causing delays and
safety hazards by putting officers in the travel way.
Traffic Signal Equipment
RSA team members noted the placement of traffic signals as a potential safety issue and may
contribute to the rear end crashes. On the Leicester Road (Route 56) approach, all traffic
signals are “ground mounted” and no mast arms are provided. Signals can be blocked by
roadside signs or large trucks and buses as a vehicle approaches the intersection.
Solar glare was given by a motorist as a reason why a crash occurred. A lack of back plates for
the traffic signals was noted. During the field visit only one back plate was observed.
A mix of traffic signal types, both LED and incandescent, were noted by RSA members.
Incandescent signals are not as bright as the LED signals.
Older “Don’t Walk / Walk” and newer “raised hand/pedestrian” pedestrian signal heads are
currently provided.
The location of the traffic signal controller box was raised as an issue. The controller box was
struck by a vehicle, which caused the traffic signal to become inoperative.
A protected left turn phase for the Route 20 eastbound and westbound approaches was added
to the intersection in March 2011. The modified phasing remedied the left turn crashes. During
the field visit, RSA team members noted that the current traffic signal locations may cause
driver confusion. A protected left turn signal with red, yellow, and green left arrow indications is
provided on the mast arm for the Route 20 eastbound approach. In addition, on the far left
Page 4
Road Safety Audit – Southbridge Road (Route 20) at Leicester Street (Route 56), Oxford, MA
Prepared by HDR Engineering, Inc.
corner of the eastbound approach, a traffic signal with red, yellow, and green ball indications is
provided. By having a green ball left of the red arrow signal indication, left-turning drivers may
think they can proceed left on green after yielding to oncoming traffic. There were no
documented crashes related to this potential confusion.
Oxford Police and Fire/EMS discussed how there was difficulty activating the Route 56
northbound emergency pre-emption.
Traffic Signal Timing
No protected or lead left turn phase is provided for the Route 56 (Leicester Road) approaches.
On the narrow Route 56 northbound approach this can lead to vehicles going around vehicles
waiting to make a left turn. Oncoming left turning vehicles in the southbound direction don’t see
the “go around” vehicles leading to a potential crash situation.
57% of the crashes were rear end crashes. In reviewing the crash reports, some of the rear end
collisions where due to the first vehicle stopping at a yellow light while the second vehicle did
not stop. This may be due to inadequate clearance times or motorists familiar with the
intersection expecting to make it through the intersection during a clearance phase. In addition,
local drivers familiar with the intersection may use the yellow and red signal indications interval
to clear the intersection when a non-local driver would stop given a yellow indication. This may
also contribute to the high volume of rear end crashes.
Pavement Condition
Based on the crash data, approximately 30% of the crashes occurred in “wet” pavement
conditions. Field observations noted extensive rutting particular on the Route 56 southbound
approach. Snow and ice can remain within these ruts even with adequate plowing operations.
The team commented that large puddles are often observed between Thayer Pond Road and
the intersection.
During the site visit, sand and other debris was observed in the shoulder. This can impede
proper roadway drainage. Additionally, this deters bicyclists from using the shoulder resulting in
bicyclists within the travel lane of a 40 MPH roadway. Bicycles travelling in the roadway can
cause motorist “panic” as it can be an unexpected condition.
Potholes and broken scored concrete was also observed by RSA team members during the site
visit. This can also lead to roadway drainage issues and can affect vehicle operation.
RSA team members noted the pavement markings were faded at the intersection. This can
lead to driver confusion as to the number of lanes provided and where vehicles should stop.
Roadway Signage
There is a significant amount of signage, including regulatory, warning, and business, on the
Route 20 eastbound approach blocking visibility of traffic signals and the roadway.
The advanced overhead warning sign (“Red Signal Ahead”) on the Route 20 Eastbound
approach is difficult to see with white lighted text on yellow background. Reduced roadway
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Road Safety Audit – Southbridge Road (Route 20) at Leicester Street (Route 56), Oxford, MA
Prepared by HDR Engineering, Inc.
visibility and ineffective advanced warning could be contributing to the high volume of rear-end
crashes.
Due to the proximity of the nightclub on the northwest corner, sight distance is reduced for
eastbound vehicles turning right on red looking for southbound through vehicles. This could be
a factor in angle collisions involving right turning eastbound vehicles.
In the field, MassDOT D6/D8 signs were observed blocking the traffic signals of multiple
approaches.
No “Left Lane Must Turn Left” sign is provided for the Route 56 southbound approach.
During the field visit, RSA team members noted the existing signs were faded, particularly the
“No Turn on Red” signs and the “Left Turn Only” signs.
Roadway Capacity
RSA team members noted that left turning vehicles will queue over the scored concrete median.
Turning movement counts were conducted as part of the Route 20 Reconstruction project. The
traffic volumes indicated a predominant eastbound movement in the AM peak and westbound
movement in the PM peak. During the field observations in mid-afternoon, queuing was
observed on the Route 56 approaches while the Route 20 approaches cleared each cycle.
RSA team members also noted the high percentage of crashes that occurred on Friday
compared to other days of the week. RSA team members noted that there is a high volume of
traffic on Friday afternoon. It was discussed that cut-through vehicles bypassing traffic backups
on Interstate 90 may be the cause of this high traffic.
Roadway Geometry
The Route 20 eastbound approach is on a vertical and horizontal curve which reduces sight
lines to the intersection.
The Route 56 (Leicester Road) approach is very narrow. Queuing vehicles combined with oncoming traffic can prevent emergency response vehicles from getting through the intersection.
Additionally, a queue of left turning vehicles can prevent through and right moving vehicles from
entering the intersection. This can lead to impatient drivers proceeding through the intersection
on red lights.
The Route 56 northbound approach leg has a relatively steep profile grade. RSA team
members noted limited sight distance when approaching the intersection due to the vertical
curvature of the roadway. Motorists can see the intersection but not the stop line when
approaching the intersection.
RSA team members observed trucks (WB-50’s and larger) turning at the intersection both in the
eastbound and westbound direction. The trucks were observed coming very close to the Route
56 approach legs and the vehicles stopped in the approach legs when making the turns.
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Road Safety Audit – Southbridge Road (Route 20) at Leicester Street (Route 56), Oxford, MA
Prepared by HDR Engineering, Inc.
The driveway entrance to the Shell Station in the southwest quadrant also has a steep profile
grade. Vehicles entering the Shell station slow down significantly causing a queue on the
southbound departure leg of Route 56. RSA team members also noted that this queue in the
winter has caused vehicles to get stuck in the snow and are unable to make it up the steep
profile of Route 56.
RSA team members also indicated the driveway entrance to the bank in the northeast quadrant
caused vehicles to slow down significantly due driveway width and the circulation pattern in the
parking lot.
Speed
Speed data was collected as part of the Route 20 Reconstruction project. The data indicated
the 85th percentile speed, the speed at which 85 percent of vehicles are travelling and lower,
was 47 MPH for eastbound vehicles and 49 MPH for westbound vehicles. The speed limit
regulations state the speed limit through this intersection is 40 MPH. A 40 MPH speed limit sign
is posted for the westbound approach. There is no 40 MPH speed limit sign posted on the
eastbound approach. A 45 MPH speed limit sign is posted just west of the Route 20 and Route
12, however, regulations call for the speed limit to be 45 MPH in that stretch.
Bicycle Accommodation
Currently no bicycle accommodation is provided along Route 20 or Route 56. Shoulder widths
of two feet or less were observed. RSA team members stated some bicyclists travel through
the intersection collecting and carrying cans on the bicycle.
As discussed before, the shoulder was observed to contain sand and debris forcing bicyclists
into the travel lane causing driver “panic”.
Vegetative Overgrowth
RSA team members noted vegetative overgrowth along Route 20 westbound, east of the bank
parking lot. This overgrowth can block sight lines for exiting vehicles.
Potential Enhancements/Countermeasures
For each of the safety issues identified by the RSA team members, potential enhancements and
countermeasures were identified and are described below.
Driver Inattention & Enforcement
Consider applying for an Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS Grant) and
conduct driver awareness events and enforcement operations.
Provide increased shoulder width to provide locations for motorists to stop outside of the travel
way.
Page 7
Road Safety Audit – Southbridge Road (Route 20) at Leicester Street (Route 56), Oxford, MA
Prepared by HDR Engineering, Inc.
Traffic Signal Equipment
Review traffic signal locations for compliance with the “cone of vision” and minimum distance for
visibility as defined in the MUTCD. Consider providing near side supplemental traffic signals
particularly on the Route 20 eastbound approach. Supplemental signals can increase visibility
of the signals for motorists. Consider providing mast arms for the Route 56 approaches.
Provide retro-reflective border back plates on all traffic signals.
Update existing traffic signals from incandescent to LED for visibility consistency.
Update existing pedestrian signals to countdown pedestrian signals.
Consider providing concrete bollards or other protective device for the existing traffic signal
controller cabinet. An interim relocation of the traffic signal controller cabinet should be
considered. Traffic signal controller cabinet should be located away from edge of travel way in
the proposed reconstruction project.
On Route 20 eastbound, replace the far left corner traffic signal with a protected left turn signal.
Relocate the existing far-side left corner traffic signal head to the near-side mast arm shaft. In
addition, consider providing a supplemental signal on the northwest mast arm pole for Route 20
eastbound approach. This will improve visibility of the signals for eastbound vehicles that are
otherwise shielded from the signals due to roadway curvature.
Perform a test of the Route 56 northbound opticom receiver to verify it is working properly.
Relocate the opticom receiver to have a better sight line for the Route 56 approach. This may
involve trenching within the right of way to a better location up the hill south of the intersection.
Traffic Signal Timing
Examine the effects of new timing and phasing to provide a lead left phase for the Route 56
northbound approach.
Provide a left turn pocket for the northbound approach. In addition, provide a protected or lead
left turn phase for the Route 56 left turn movements.
Evaluate the current clearance phase timings and calculate proper clearance timings if
necessary.
Optimize current signal timing.
Provide advanced dilemma zone detection.
Pavement Condition
Complete a pavement analysis to determine the appropriate locations for full depth pavement
reconstruction and mill/overlay.
Perform drainage analysis of the proposed reconstruction and provide adequate drainage to
reduce ponding and “wet” pavement conditions.
Page 8
Road Safety Audit – Southbridge Road (Route 20) at Leicester Street (Route 56), Oxford, MA
Prepared by HDR Engineering, Inc.
Perform street sweeping or maintenance to remove accumulated debris along the edge of the
roadway.
Perform spot repairs to pavement and scored concrete.
Reapply pavement markings at the intersection.
Roadway Signage
Perform a sign inventory and analysis to determine which signs could be removed or relocated
to improve visibility of the traffic signals. Business signs that are relocated as part of the
reconstruction project should be located to not block traffic signals.
Modify the existing advance signal ahead warning sign to improve readability including adding
flashers and changing the color of the legend.
Add “No Turn on Red” sign for the Route 20 eastbound approach. Relocate existing “No Turn
on Red” signs adjacent to the traffic signal. Review need for “No Turn on Red” signs based on
sight distance upon completion of Route 20 reconstruction project.
Provide a “Left Lane Must Turn Left” sign for the Route 56 southbound approach.
Roadway Capacity
Remove the scored concrete median and place hot mix asphalt with proper pavement markings
in its place to increase left turn storage length.
Increase storage lanes during reconstruction project.
Perform traffic analysis and develop a “time of day” signal timing plan to accommodate the
changes in hourly traffic patterns.
Roadway Geometry
Provide a left turn pocket for Route 56 northbound left turn vehicles. This could prevent left
turns from blocking the thru movements, reducing queue and improving emergency vehicle
response time.
Modify the roadway profile to improve sight distance.
The reconstruction project should provide adequate curb radii to accommodate WB-67’s.
Modify the driveway entrance to the Shell station to reduce significant vehicle slowing and a
resulting queue.
Modify the driveway entrance to the bank to reduce significant vehicle slowing and a resulting
queue.
Speed
Post a speed limit 40 MPH sign on the eastbound approach.
Page 9
Road Safety Audit – Southbridge Road (Route 20) at Leicester Street (Route 56), Oxford, MA
Prepared by HDR Engineering, Inc.
Conduct a post-construction speed study upon completion of the Route 20 project and analyze
the impacts of the roadway improvements.
Adjust clearance and dilemma zone timings based on post construction speed study.
Bicycle Accommodation
Provide wider shoulders in accordance with the MassDOT Development and Design Guide for
proper bicycle accommodation.
Vegetative Overgrowth
Perform selective clearing and trimming to overgrowth along the roadway.
Summary of Potential Safety Enhancements
Table 2 summarizes the stated safety issues, possible safety enhancements, estimated safety
payoff, time frame, cost, responsibility, and status on current design. Safety payoff estimates
are categorized as low, medium and high and are based on engineering judgment. The
estimated time frame is categorized as Short-term (less than 1 year), Mid-term (1 - 3 years), and
Long-term (greater than 3 years). The expected enhancement cost is categorized as Low (less
than $10,000), Medium ($10,000 to $50,000), and High (greater than $50,000)
Page 10
Table 2 – Summary of Potential Safety Enhancements
Safety Issue
Driver
Inattention &
Enforcement
Traffic Signal
Equipment
Safety
Payoff
Time Frame
Cost
Responsibility
Current
Design
Consider applying for an Executive Office of Public
Safety and Security (EOPSS) Grant and conduct
driver awareness events and enforcement
operations.
Medium
Short-term
Low
Town of Oxford
No
Provide increased shoulder width to provide locations
for motorists to stop outside of the travel way.
Medium
Long-term
High
Designer,
MassDOT
Yes
Medium
Mid-term
Medium
MassDOT
Yes
Low
Mid-term
Low
MassDOT
Yes
Low
Mid-term
Low
MassDOT
Yes
Low
Mid-term
Low
MassDOT
Yes
Medium
Mid-term
Medium
MassDOT,
Town of Oxford
No
Medium
Long-term
Low
Designer,
MassDOT
Yes
Safety Enhancement
Review traffic signal locations for compliance with the
“cone of vision” as defined in the MUTCD. Consider
providing near side supplemental traffic signals
particularly on the Route 20 eastbound approach.
Consider providing mast arms for the Route 56
approaches. Provide “advanced” signal on NW mast
arm pole for Route 20 eatbound approach.
Provide retro-reflective border back plates on all
traffic signals.
Update existing traffic signals from incandescent to
LED for visibility consistency.
Update existing pedestrian signals to countdown
pedestrian signals.
Consider providing concrete bollards or other
protective device for the existing traffic signal
controller cabinet. An interim relocation of the traffic
signal controller cabinet should be considered.
Traffic signal controller cabinet should be located
away from edge of travel way in the proposed
reconstruction project.
Road Safety Audit – Southbridge Road (Route 20) at Leicester Street (Route 56), Oxford, MA
Prepared by HDR Engineering, Inc.
Table 2 Continued – Summary of Potential Safety Enhancements
Safety Issue
Traffic Signal
Equipment
(Cont.)
Traffic Signal
Timing
Pavement
Condition
Safety
Payoff
Time Frame
Cost
Responsibility
Current
Design
On Route 20 eastbound, replace the far left corner traffic
signal with a protected left turn signal. Relocate the existing
far-side left corner traffic signal head to the near-side mast
arm shaft.
Medium
Mid-term
Low
MassDOT
Yes
Perform a test of the Route 56 northbound opticom receiver to
verify it is working properly. Relocate the opticom receiver to
have a better sight line for the Route 56 approach. This may
involve trenching within the right of way to a better location up
the hill south of the intersection.
Medium
Short-term
Medium
MassDOT
No
Examine the effects of new timing and phasing to provide a
lead left phase for the Route 56 northbound approach.
High
Mid-term
Low
MassDOT
Yes
Provide a left turn pocket for the Route 56 northbound
approach. In addition, provide a protected or lead left turn
phase for the Route 56 left turn movements.
High
Long-term
High
Designer,
MassDOT
Yes
Evaluate the current clearance phase timings and calculate
proper clearance timings if necessary.
Low
Short-term
Low
MassDOT
No
Optimize current signal timing.
Provide advanced dilemma zone detection
Medium
Medium
Short-term
Short-term
Low
Medium
MassDOT
MassDOT
Yes
Yes
Perform pavement analysis to determine the appropriate
locations for full depth pavement reconstruction and
mill/overlay pavement repair.
Medium
Long-term
High
Designer,
MassDOT
Yes
Perform drainage analysis of the proposed reconstruction and
provide adequate drainage to reduce ponding and “wet”
pavement conditions.
Medium
Long-term
High
Designer,
MassDOT
Yes
Low
Short-term
Low
MassDOT
No
Safety Enhancement
Perform street sweeping or maintenance to remove
accumulated debris along the edge of the roadway.
Page 12
Road Safety Audit – Southbridge Road (Route 20) at Leicester Street (Route 56), Oxford, MA
Prepared by HDR Engineering, Inc.
Table 2 Continued – Summary of Potential Safety Enhancements
Safety Issue
Pavement
Condition
(Cont)
Roadway
Signage
Roadway
Capacity
Safety
Payoff
Time Frame
Cost
Responsibility
Current
Design
Medium
Short-term
Medium
MassDOT
No
Reapply pavement markings at the intersection.
Low
Short-term
Low
MassDOT
No
Perform a sign inventory and analysis to determine which
signs could be removed or relocated to improve visibility of
the traffic signals.
Low
Short-term
Low
MassDOT
No
Business signs that are relocated as part of the reconstruction
project should be located to not block traffic signals.
Low
Long-term
Medium
Designer,
MassDOT
Yes
Modify the existing advance warning sign to improve
readability including adding flashers and changing the color of
the legend.
Medium
Mid-term
Medium
MassDOT
No
Add “No Turn on Red” sign for the Route 20 eastbound
approach. Relocate existing “No Turn on Red” signs adjacent
to the traffic signal.
Low
Short-term
Low
MassDOT
No
Review need for “No Turn on Red” signs based on sight
distance upon completion of Route 20 reconstruction project.
Low
Long-term
Low
Designer,
MassDOT
Yes
Provide a “Left Lane Must Turn Left” sign for the Route 56
southbound approach.
Low
Short-term
Low
MassDOT
No
Remove the scored concrete median and place hot mix
asphalt with proper pavement markings in its place to
increase left turn storage length.
Medium
Mid-term
Medium
MassDOT
No
Increase storage lanes during reconstruction project.
Medium
Long-term
High
Designer,
MassDOT
Yes
Low
Long-term
Medium
MassDOT
No
Safety Enhancement
Perform spot repairs to pavement and scored concrete.
Perform traffic analysis and develop a “time of day” signal
timing plan to accommodate the changes in hourly traffic
patterns.
Page 13
Road Safety Audit – Southbridge Road (Route 20) at Leicester Street (Route 56), Oxford, MA
Prepared by HDR Engineering, Inc.
Table 2 Continued – Summary of Potential Safety Enhancements
Safety Issue
Roadway
Geometry
Safety
Payoff
Time Frame
Cost
Responsibility
Current
Design
Provide a left turn pocket for Route 56 northbound left turn
vehicles.
High
Long-term
High
Designer,
MassDOT
Yes
Modify the roadway profile to improve sight distance.
High
Long-term
High
Designer,
MassDOT
Yes
The reconstruction project should provide adequate curb radii
to accommodate WB-67’s.
Medium
Long-term
High
Designer,
MassDOT
Yes
Modify the driveway entrance to the Shell station to reduce
significant vehicle slowing and a resulting queue.
Medium
Long-term
High
Designer,
MassDOT
Yes
Medium
Long-term
High
Low
Short-term
Low
Designer,
MassDOT
MassDOT
Low
Short-term
Low
MassDOT
No
Medium
Long-term
High
Designer,
MassDOT
Yes
Low
Short-term
Low
MassDOT
No
Safety Enhancement
Modify the driveway entrance to the bank to reduce significant
vehicle slowing and a resulting queue.
Post a speed limit 40 MPH sign on the eastbound approach.
Speed
Conduct a post-construction speed study upon completion of
the Route 20 project and analyze the impacts of the roadway
improvements.
Provide wider shoulders in accordance with the MassDOT
Bicycle
Development and Design Guide for proper bicycle
Accommodation
accommodation.
Vegetative
Overgrowth
Perform selective clearing and trimming to overgrowth along
the roadway.
Yes
No
Page 14
Road Safety Audit – Southbridge Road (Route 20) at Leicester Street (Route 56), Oxford, MA
Prepared by HDR Engineering, Inc.
Table 2 Continued – Summary of Potential Safety Enhancements
Safety Issue
Roadway
Geometry
Safety
Payoff
Time Frame
Cost
Responsibility
Current
Design
Provide a left turn pocket for northbound left turn vehicles.
High
Long-term
High
Designer,
MassDOT
Yes
Modify the roadway profile to improve sight distance.
High
Long-term
High
Designer,
MassDOT
Yes
The reconstruction project should provide adequate curb radii
to accommodate WB-67’s.
Medium
Long-term
High
Designer,
MassDOT
Yes
Modify the driveway entrance to the Shell station to reduce
significant vehicle slowing and a resulting queue.
Medium
Long-term
High
Designer,
MassDOT
Yes
Medium
Long-term
High
Low
Short-term
Low
Designer,
MassDOT
MassDOT
Low
Short-term
Low
MassDOT
No
Medium
Long-term
High
Designer,
MassDOT
Yes
Low
Short-term
Low
MassDOT
No
Safety Enhancement
Modify the driveway entrance to the bank to reduce significant
vehicle slowing and a resulting queue.
Post a speed limit 40 MPH sign on the eastbound approach.
Speed
Conduct a post-construction speed study upon completion of
the Route 20 project and analyze the impacts of the roadway
improvements.
Provide wider shoulders in accordance with the MassDOT
Bicycle
Development and Design Guide for proper bicycle
Accommodation
accommodation.
Vegetative
Overgrowth
Perform selective clearing and trimming to overgrowth along
the roadway.
Yes
No
Page 14
APPENDIX A
RSA Meeting Agenda
Agenda
Project:
MassDOT Route 20 Reconstruction Project – Route 20 at Route 56 Road Safety Audit
Subject:
High Crash Location
Date:
Location:
Attendees:
Monday, October 27, 2014
Oxford Police Department – Community Room
503 Main Street, Oxford, MA 01540
Lisa Schletzbaum (MassDOT)
Joe Frawley (MassDOT D3)
Lola Campbell (MassDOT D3)
Sujatha Mohanakrishnan (CMRPC)
Lieutenant Anthony Saad (Oxford PD)
Captain Ken Sellers (Oxford FD)
Sean Divoll (Oxford DPW)
Joseph Ouellette (ConnDOT)
Paul Bakis (HDR)
Alicia Nitsch (HDR)
Pre-Audit
•
•
•
•
Participants are encouraged to drive through the intersection to
become familiar with the location.
Consider elements on the Road Safety Audit Prompt List (attached).
Participants are encouraged to review existing conditions provided.
Participants should bring Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) with
them to the Audit.
Road Safety Audit
1:00 PM
Welcome and Introductions
1:15 PM
Review of Site Specific Material
•
•
2:00 PM
Site Visit
•
•
2:30 PM
Drive to Route 20 at Route 56
As a group, identify areas for improvement
Post Site Visit Discussion
•
•
3:00 PM
Crash, Speed & Volume Summaries
Existing Geometrics and Conditions
Return to Oxford Police Department Community Room
Discuss observations and finalize findings
Adjourn for the Day
695 Atlantic Avenue, Boston, MA 02111
T 617.357.7700
hdrinc.com
1
Post Audit/Action Items
•
•
695 Atlantic Avenue, Boston, MA 02111
Participants will be asked to provide comments on the draft Road
Safety Audit report prepared by HDR within 5 business days.
Participants will be asked to provide comments on the final draft
report within 5 business days.
T 617.357.7700
hdrinc.com
2
APPENDIX B
RSA Audit Team Attendance/Contact List
APPENDIX C
Collision Diagram
APPENDIX D
Crash Data Summary Tables
Route 20 Crash Data Summary Charts
CRASH MONTH
14%
12%
10%
8%
6%
4%
2%
0%
13%
13%
13%
11%
10%
7%
7%
7%
7%
5%
5%
3%
Jan
Feb
MAR
Apr
MAY
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sept
Oct
Nov
Dec
CRASH DAY OF WEEK
23%
25%
18%
20%
18%
15%
15%
10%
10%
10%
7%
5%
0%
Mon
Tues
Wed
Thurs
Fri
Sat
Sun
CRASH TIME OF DAY
18%
20%
15%
10%
7%
5%
0%
2% 2%
8%
3%
2%
0% 0% 0% 0%
8%
7%
5%
3%
8%
5%
5%
7% 7%
2% 2% 2%
0%
12 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9 10 11 12 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9 10 11
AM AM AM AM AM AM AM AM AM AM AM AM PM PM PM PM PM PM PM PM PM PM PM PM
CRASH MANNER OF COLLISION
56%
60%
50%
40%
33%
30%
20%
10%
3%
3%
3%
2%
0%
0%
Sideswipe,
opposite
direction
Sideswipe,
same direction
Head on
Rear to Rear
Unknown
0%
Single Vehicle
Crash
Rear-end
Angle
Crash Data Route 20 @ Route 56 - Oxford MA
1 of 2
Route 20 Crash Data Summary Charts
CRASH LIGHT CONDITION
80%
69%
60%
40%
20%
20%
2%
5%
Dawn
Dusk
3%
0%
0%
Dark unknown
roadway
lighting
Other
Unknown
2%
0%
Daylight
Dark - lighted
Dark roadway
roadway not
lighted
CRASH WEATHER CONDITION
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%
49%
30%
13%
0%
Clear
Cloudy
Rain
0%
0%
0%
0%
Blowing
Sleet, Hail, Fog, Smog, Severe
Freezing
Smoke Crosswinds Sand, Snow
Rain
Snow
2%
Other
7%
Unknown
CRASH ROAD SURFACE
80%
70%
60%
30%
40%
20%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
Snow
Ice
Sand, Mud,
Dirt, Oil,
Grabel
Water
(Standing,
Moving)
Slush
Other
Unknown
2%
2%
65-74
75-84
0%
Dry
Wet
CRASH DRIVER AGES
23%
25%
20%
20%
19%
15%
15%
10%
11%
8%
5%
1%
0%
16-20
21-24
25-34
35-44
Crash Data Route 20 @ Route 56 - Oxford MA
45-54
2 of 2
55-64
85-94
APPENDIX E
Detailed Crash Data
#
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
Crash Date
2/6/2009
2/19/2009
6/5/2009
6/22/2009
7/10/2009
7/11/2009
9/23/2009
10/5/2009
12/26/2009
3/13/2010
4/19/2010
4/28/2010
5/8/2010
9/8/2010
10/7/2010
10/11/2010
11/26/2010
12/1/2010
12/20/2010
12/24/2010
1/6/2011
4/9/2011
4/22/2011
8/15/2011
8/26/2011
8/30/2011
9/12/2011
9/19/2011
9/28/2011
9/28/2011
10/27/2011
10/30/2011
12/10/2011
12/11/2011
2/13/2012
2/17/2012
8/28/2012
8/29/2012
10/19/2012
10/28/2012
10/31/2012
11/1/2012
11/6/2012
12/14/2012
6/2/2013
6/26/2013
7/18/2013
8/13/2013
8/14/2013
9/10/2013
11/22/2013
12/6/2013
1/25/2014
2/1/2014
2/19/2014
3/11/2014
3/21/2014
3/31/2014
5/14/2014
5/23/2014
8/4/2014
Crash Day
Friday
Thursday
Friday
Monday
Friday
Saturday
Wednesday
Monday
Saturday
Saturday
Monday
Wednesday
Saturday
Wednesday
Thursday
Monday
Friday
Wednesday
Monday
Friday
Thursday
Saturday
Friday
Monday
Friday
Tuesday
Monday
Monday
Wednesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Sunday
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Friday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Friday
Sunday
Wednesday
Thursday
Tuesday
Friday
Sunday
Wednesday
Thursday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Tuesday
Friday
Friday
Saturday
Saturday
Wednesday
Tuesday
Friday
Monday
Wednesday
Friday
Monday
Time of Day
8:16 PM
5:22 PM
3:03 PM
7:03 PM
4:24 PM
12:36 PM
11:08 PM
5:29 PM
5:47 PM
12:39 PM
6:08 PM
3:07 PM
7:29 PM
7:58 AM
8:52 PM
3:53 PM
2:01 PM
7:56 AM
8:45 AM
6:18 PM
3:05 PM
3:59 PM
2:12 PM
3:46 PM
1:57 AM
11:22 AM
2:26 PM
3:25 PM
10:03 AM
10:57 AM
8:54 PM
10:21 AM
1:36 PM
10:20 PM
2:17 PM
1:24 PM
2:00 PM
7:21 PM
3:56 PM
8:40 PM
7:15 AM
2:15 AM
5:18 PM
7:34 AM
9:07 PM
4:55 PM
3:34 PM
12:31 PM
8:04 AM
4:14 PM
10:15 AM
6:22 PM
3:30 PM
11:59 AM
5:44 PM
8:11 AM
7:15 PM
8:05 AM
8:06 AM
3:01 PM
9:30 AM
Manner of Collision Light Condition
Weather Condition
Angle
Dark - lighted roadway Clear
Angle
Dusk
Rain
Rear-end
Daylight
Rain
Angle
Daylight
Rain
Angle
Daylight
Clear
Rear-end
Daylight
Cloudy
Angle
Dark - lighted roadway Clear
Rear-end
Daylight
Clear
ted
Rear-end
Dark - roadway not lighCloudy
Rear-end
Daylight
Rain
Rear-end
Daylight
Clear
Rear-end
Daylight
Rain
Angle
Dusk
Rain
Rear-end
Daylight
Clear/Cloudy
Single Vehicle Crash Dark - lighted roadway Clear
Angle
Daylight
Clear
Angle
Daylight
Not Reported
Rear-end
Daylight
Rain
Angle
Daylight
Cloudy
Angle
Dark - lighted roadway Clear
Angle
Daylight
Clear
Rear-end
Daylight
Clear
Rear-end
Daylight
Clear
Rear-end
Daylight
Rain
Angle
Dark - lighted roadway Rain
Rear-end
Daylight
Not Reported
Rear-end
Daylight
Clear
Rear-end
Daylight
Clear
Rear-end
Daylight
Clear
Rear-end
Daylight
Clear
Angle
Dark - lighted roadway Rain/Cloudy
Angle
Daylight
Clear
Rear-end
Daylight
Clear
Angle
Dark - lighted roadway Not Reported
Rear-end
Daylight
Cloudy
Rear-end
Daylight
Clear
Head-on
Daylight
Not Reported
Rear-end
Dusk
Clear
Rear-end
Daylight
Rain
Rear-end
Dark - lighted roadway Clear
Rear-end
Daylight
Cloudy/Rain
Single vehicle crash Dark - lighted roadway Clear/Other
lighting
Sideswipe, same direction
Dark - unknown roadway
Clear
Rear-end
Dawn
Clear
Rear-end
Dark - lighted roadway Clear/Other
Rear-end
Daylight
Clear
Angle
Daylight
Clear
Rear-end
Daylight
Cloudy/Rain
Angle
Daylight
Clear
Rear-end
Daylight
Clear/Other
Rear-end
Daylight
Rain
lighting
Angle
Dark - unknown roadway
Rain
Rear-end
Daylight
Cloudy
Rear-end
Daylight
Clear
Angle
Dark - lighted roadway Rain
Rear-end
Daylight
Clear
Rear-end
Dark - lighted roadway Rain
Angle
Daylight
Cloudy/Rain
Rear-end
Daylight
Cloudy
Angle
Daylight
Clear
Angle
Daylight
Cloudy
Road Surfaces
Dry
Wet
Wet
Wet
Dry
Dry
Dry
Dry
Dry
Wet
Dry
Wet
Wet
Dry
Dry
Dry
Dry
Wet
Dry
Dry
Dry
Dry
Dry
Wet
Wet
Dry
Dry
Dry
Dry
Dry
Wet
Wet
Dry
Dry
Dry
Dry
Dry
Dry
Wet
Dry
Wet
Dry
Dry
Dry
Dry
Dry
Dry
Wet
Dry
Dry
Wet
Wet
Dry
Dry
Wet
Dry
Dry
Wet
Dry
Dry
Dry
ode
rity Reported
Driver Contributing CMaximum
Injury SeveInjury
Status
Unknown
No injury
No injury
ay
Failed to yield right of wPossible
No Injury
Possible
Followed too closely No Injury
No Injury
No Injury
ay Injury
Failed to yield right of wNo
No Injury
No Injury
ay Injury
Failed to yield right of wNo
No Injury
No Injury
s, signals,
Disregarded traffic signNo
Injury road markings
No Injury
No Injury
or running off road
Failure to keep in proper
Nolane
injury
Followed too closely No Injury
No Injury
No Injury
Distracted
No injury
No injury
ditions
Driving too fast for conNo
Injury
No Injury
No Injury
reckless, careless, negligent or aggressive manner
Operating vehicle in erratic,
No injury
Followed too closely No Injury
No Injury
No Injury
s, signals,
Disregarded traffic signNo
Injury road markings
No Injury
No Injury
Inattention
No injury
/ Fainting
History Heart/ EpilepsyNo
Injury
No Injury
No Improper Driving Non-fatal injury - Non-incapacitating
Failed to yield right of wncapacitating
I ay
Incapacitating
Distracted, Inattention No Injury
No Injury
No Injury
Made an improper turnNon-incapacitating
Non-incapacitating
No Injury
ay Injury
Failed to yield right of wNo
No Injury
No Injury
s, signals,
Disregarded traffic signNo
Injury road markings
No injury
Distracted
Non-incapacitating
No Injury
No Injury
Inattention
No injury
No injury
Followed too closely No Injury
No Injury
No Injury
No Injury
s, signals, road markings
Disregarded traffic signPossible
Possible
Inattention
No Injury
No Injury
No Injury
Inattention
Unknown
Physical Impairment No Injury
No Injury
No Injury
Inattention
No injury
reckless, careless, negligent or aggressive manner
Operating vehicle in erratic,
No injury
ay Injury
Failed to yield right of wNo
No Injury
No Injury
Inattention
No Injury
No Injury
No Injury
Unknown
Incapacitating
Incapacitating
Unknown
No Injury
No Injury
No Injury
Inattention
No injury
Made an improper turnNo Injury
No injury
No Improper Driving No Injury
No Injury
No Injury
Inattention
No Injury
No Injury
No Injury
Followed too closely No Injury
No Injury
No Injury
ditions
Driving too fast for conNon-incapacitating
Non-incapacitating
No Improper Driving No injury
No Injury
No Injury
Other Improper Action No injury
No injury
Inattention
No injury
No injury
No Injury
ay
Failed to yield right of wNon-fatal
injury - Non-incapacitating
Physical Impairment No injury
Visibility Obstructed Non-fatal injury - Non-incapacitating
Followed too closely Non-fatal injury - Non-incapacitating
riving too fast for conditions
Followed too closely, DPossible
No Injury
Possible
Inattention
No injury
Inattention
Possible
No Injury
Possible
Glare
Possible
No Injury
No Injury
ay Injury
Failed to yield right of wNo
No Injury
No Injury
Inattention
No Injury
No Injury
No Injury
Distracted
No Injury
No Injury
No Injury
ay injury
Failed to yield right of wNo
Unknown
No Injury
No Injury
No Injury
ay Injury
Failed to yield right of wNo
No Injury
No Injury
s, signals,
Disregarded traffic signNo
injury road markings
No Injury
Non-incapacitating
Ages
16-20
53
24
22
22
21
25-34
20
16-20
30
21-24
48
45
45-54
61
25-34
25-34
24
57
19
35-44
17
16-20
26
25-34
75
21-24
37
25-34
25-34
22
31
35-44
49
55-64
25-34
25
48
30
21-24
35-44
25-34
35-44
Possible
21-24
45-54
35-44
21-24
18
35-44
23
42
33
22
18
35-44
30
56
35-44
Comments
21-24
42
47
46
38
36
35-44
64
55-64
81
35-44
33
45
45-54
25-34
55-64
22
29
54
42
45-54
33
62
25-34
41
31
35-44
37
45-54
46
65-74
35-44
53
60
55-64
38
55-64
55-64
39
31
25
45-54
35-44
33
45-54
45-54
32
45-54
75-84
55-64
35-44
41
45-54
19
47
48
31
30
50
35-44
63
88
45-54
First vehicle was yielding due to emergency vehicle.
Distracted operator (radio) did not see stopped vehicles in time.
Vehicle on Route 20 ran red light.
Operator suffers from epilepsy. Was conscious but lethargic after accident.
Cyclist travelling straight did not see vehicles directional and intention to turn right.
Operator that initiated accident was cited for operating under the influence.
Distracted operator (looked away from road) rear ended vehicle stopped at light.
Both vehicles entered intersection on yellow light.
Operator's foot slipped from brake pedal to gas pedal while attempting to pull up pants in red light queue.
Operator looked away from road when light turn red and vehicle in front stopped for red light.
Rear ended vehicle stopped when light turned yellow.
Rear ended vehicle was stopped at red light. Operator indicated bottle rolled under brake pedal.
Both vehicles stopped at red light when flat bed truck (first vehicle) rolled back into vehicle two.
Power outage. Temporary stop signs in place for Route 56 NB & SB.
Operator indicated vehicle was stopped when foot slipped of brake pedal causing crash.
Both vehicles stopped. Operator indicated vehicle was stopped when foot slipped of brake pedal causing crash.
Deer darted into roadway
Hit and Run
Rear ended vehicle pulled out of gas station and stopped at red light.
Rear ended vehicle was stopped at red light. Operator reached for wallet approaching intersection causing him to hit the gas pedal.
Vehicle in right lane allowed vehicle from parking lot to exit but vehicle in left lane did not stop.
Rear ended vehicle was stopped/slowing in traffic. Operator claimed water bottle on floor imparied ability to hit brake pedal.
Operator claimed distraction by solar glare.
Second vehicle accelarated after light turned green while first vehicle was waiting to make left turn.
Left turning vehicle from parking lot attempted to enter outside lane in queue.
Vehicle in left lane allowed vehicle from parking lot to exit but vehicle in right lane did not stop.