ROAD SAFETY AUDIT
Vernon Street, Winthrop Street and Providence Street
City of Worcester
March 14, 2014
Prepared For:
MassDOT Highway Division
Prepared By:
BETA Group, Inc.
Road Safety Audit—Vernon Street, Winthrop Street, Providence Street—Worcester, MA
Prepared by BETA Group, Inc.
Table of Contents
Project Data ................................................................................................................................. 1
Background ................................................................................................................................. 2
Project Description ..................................................................................................................... 2
Audit Observations ..................................................................................................................... 7
Potential Safety Enhancements ............................................................................................... 10
Summary of Road Safety Audit ............................................................................................... 14
List of Appendices
Appendix A.
Appendix B.
Appendix C.
Appendix D.
Appendix E.
RSA Meeting Agenda
RSA Audit Team Contact List
Detailed Crash Data
Traffic Volume Data
Design Plans
List of Figures
Figure 1.
Location Map ......................................................................................................................... 3
List of Tables
Table 1.
Table 2.
Table 3.
Participating Audit Team Members ....................................................................................... 1
Estimated Time Frame and Costs Breakdown ..................................................................... 10
Potential Safety Enhancement Summary ............................................................................. 15
Road Safety Audit—Vernon Street, Winthrop Street, Providence Street—Worcester, MA
Prepared by BETA Group, Inc.
Project Data
A Road Safety Audit for Vernon Street, Winthrop Street and Providence Street in the City of Worcester
was held on February 6, 2014 at the Central Massachusetts Regional Planning Commission (CMRPC)
offices in Worcester, 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.
Table 1. Participating Audit Team Members
Audit Team Member
Agency/Affiliation
Lisa Schletzbaum
MassDOT Highway Division – Safety Section
Corey O’Connor
MassDOT Highway Division – Safety Section
Craig Roberts
MassDOT Highway Division – Safety Section (Intern)
Sujatha Mohanakrishnan
CMRPC
Dan Daniska
CMRPC
Kevin Krasnecky
CMRPC
Karin Valentine Goins
WalkBike Worcester
Jerry Powers
WalkBike Worcester
Zach Dyer
Worcester Department of Public Health
Joe Borbone
City of Worcester Department of Public Works and Parks
Kevin Krusas
Worcester Police
Lloyd Bristol
Bristol Traffic & Trans.
Lola Campbell
MassDOT Highway Division – District 3 Traffic
Greg Lucas
BETA Group, Inc.
Justin Curewitz
BETA Group, Inc.
Page 1
Road Safety Audit—Vernon Street, Winthrop Street, Providence Street—Worcester, MA
Prepared by BETA Group, 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 Road Safety Audit was scheduled for Vernon Street,
Winthrop Street and Providence Street because the intersections of Winthrop Street at Vernon Street and
Winthrop Street at Providence Street are identified as high crash locations within the Central
Massachusetts Regional Planning Commission (CMRPC) region. 25% design plans were submitted in
2013 for the reconstruction of Winthrop Street, including intersections at Vernon Street, Providence
Street and Granite Street (MassDOT File No. 605470). The project is identified as a supplemental project
on the 2014-2017 Central Massachusetts Municipal Planning Organization (CMMPO) Transportation
Improvement Program (TIP). The RSA is intended to identify potential short and long term safety
improvements that can be made at the intersections, which can then be implemented through general
maintenance for short term low cost improvements or incorporated into the reconstruction project to the
greatest extent practicable.
Project Description
Vernon Street, Winthrop Street and Heywood Street form a continuous corridor, connecting Massasoit
Road to the east with I-290 and Kelley Square to the west. Route 122A follows the corridor from
Providence Street west towards I-290, and follows Providence Street south of Winthrop Street towards
Route 146. The segments of Vernon Street, Winthrop Street and Providence Street carrying Route 122A
are functionally classified as Urban Minor Arterials; the remaining segments of each roadway are
classified as Urban Collectors. All other intersecting side streets discussed in this report are local
roadways. All roadways within the study area, shown in Figure 1, are under City of Worcester
jurisdiction.
The two intersections included in the audit are discussed in detail below.
Winthrop Street at Vernon Street
Winthrop Street and Vernon Street
form a Y-shaped intersection with the
south leg of Vernon Street under yield
control. The northwest leg of Vernon
Street and the Winthrop Street leg
form a continuous corridor carrying
Route 122A. All intersecting
roadways provide a single lane of
travel in each direction. It was noted
that the Vernon Street leg previously
operated under STOP control.
Winthrop Street at Vernon Street
(looking northwest)
Page 2
ET
T RE
N S 122A)
NO
VER OUT E
(R
IN
(R TH
O RO
UT P
E S
12 TR
2A E
) ET
SUFFIELD STREET
VERNON STREET
SEYMOUR STREET
PROVIDENCE STREET
W
ARLINGTON STREET
ENDICOTT STREET
WI
NT
STUDY INTERSECTION
Road Safety Audit
Winthrop Street,
Vernon Street and
Providence Street
Worcester, MA
OP
S
TR
EE
T
T
TREE
ITE S
GRAN
T
ST REE
ENCE
PROVID UTE 122A)
(RO
LEGEND
HR
Figure 1
Location Map
Road Safety Audit—Vernon Street, Winthrop Street, Providence Street—Worcester, MA
Prepared by BETA Group, Inc.
Area businesses, parking, bus stops and intersecting side streets create interruptions to flow that both
create and exacerbate mainline congestion along the Route 122A corridor. Parking is allowed along the
west side of the south leg of Vernon Street, adjacent to a strip of commercial establishments, and along
the east side of the Winthrop Street leg, adjacent to a strip of multi-family homes with limited off-street
parking. Residential side streets affecting intersection operations include Endicott Street, which intersects
Vernon Street from the west north of the intersection; Suffield Street, which intersects Vernon Street
immediately south of the intersection; and Arlington Street, which intersects Winthrop Street from the
east south of the intersection. The 9% downhill grade of Winthrop Street westbound also influences
traffic operations in the area. A sag vertical curve accompanies a slight horizontal curve for the Vernon
Street and Winthrop Street (Route 122A) mainline through the intersection.
Sidewalks are provided along both sides of both Vernon Street and Winthrop Street in the vicinity of the
intersection. Crosswalks are provided across all three legs of the intersection. Pavement markings are
generally faded on the intersection approaches, and are non-existent between the crosswalks in the center
of the intersection.
Crash data provided by the Worcester Police Department crash reports submitted to the RMV and
summarized by Bristol Traffic & Transportation Consulting, LLC (BTTC) show 48 crashes occurred at
the intersection for the three year period from 2008 through 2010. A crash data summary and a collision
diagram are included in the Appendix. The most prevalent crash type were angle crashes, occurring not
just at the intersection of the yield-controlled Vernon Street approach but also at the adjacent side street
intersections. Seven crashes involved a vehicle departing the yield-controlled Vernon Street approach;
five of these involved an eastbound vehicle, while two involved a westbound vehicle on the mainline.
Twelve crashes occurred at or in the vicinity of Endicott Street. Three of these 12 crashes involved a
pedestrian crossing Endicott Street; six involved a vehicle departing Endicott Street and a vehicle
traveling southeast on Vernon Street; one involved a vehicle turning left onto Endicott Street; one was a
rear-end crash on Endicott Street; and one was a rear-end crash on Vernon Street northbound, which
likely occurred either as a result of a vehicle stopped to turn left on Endicott Street or because of queued
traffic on Vernon Street.
Five crashes occurred at the intersection of Suffield Street and Vernon Street. Four involved a vehicle
departing Suffield Street, while one involved a vehicle turning left from Vernon Street onto Suffield
Street. Three crashes occurred at the intersection of Arlington Street and Winthrop Street; two involved
vehicles departing Arlington Street, while one involved a vehicle turning left onto Arlington Street. Two
pedestrian crashes occurred at the intersection in addition to the three already noted at Endicott Street.
One pedestrian crash involved a pedestrian crossing the yield controlled Vernon Street leg, and one
occurred crossing the medical center driveway at 10 Winthrop Street.
Five crashes with parked cars occurred within the study area. Three crashes occurred along the businesses
on the west side of the south leg of Vernon Street, where a vehicle pulling out from a parking space
collided with a vehicle traveling along Vernon Street. One additional crash in this area involved a vehicle
turning right on Suffield Street striking a car parked on Suffield Street. Another crash involved a
sideswipe of a parked car on the north side of Winthrop Street approaching Vernon Street.
Also of note are three crashes at the nose of the acute angle between Vernon Street and Winthrop Street.
Two eastbound vehicles mounted the grass area and struck fixed objects. The third involved a tractor
Page 4
Road Safety Audit—Vernon Street, Winthrop Street, Providence Street—Worcester, MA
Prepared by BETA Group, Inc.
trailer turning right from Vernon Street to Winthrop Street. The angle of the Vernon Street approach
makes this a challenging turn for a larger vehicle, and the trailer carried across the grass area and struck a
fixed object.
Winthrop Street at Providence Street
Winthrop Street and Providence Street
form a 4-way intersection under traffic
signal control. Winthrop Street forms
the east and west legs of the
intersection, while Providence Street
forms the north and south legs. The
traffic signal provides a lead protected
phase for the Winthrop Street
westbound approach and for the
Providence Street southbound
approach.
Providence Street at Winthrop Street
(looking south)
All four approaches to the intersection are single lane approaches, although it was noted that the
southbound approach is wide enough to allow through vehicles to pass left-turning vehicles if the leftturning driver stays close enough to the double yellow center line. The lack of dedicated left turn lanes on
all approaches was noted as a cause of congestion on all approaches, since a single stopped left turning
vehicle can block the entire approach. A triangular channelizing island on the northwest corner of the
intersection delineates a yield-controlled right turn from Providence Street southbound to Winthrop
Street. Crosswalks are provided across all four legs of the intersection, and a pushbutton activated
exclusive pedestrian phase is provided. A crosswalk is also provided across the channelized right turn
lane, but is not under signal control. Sidewalks are provided along both sides of both intersecting
roadways.
Worcester Academy is located on the east side of Providence Street north of the intersection, and
influences both vehicle and pedestrian traffic at the intersection. The school has athletic fields on the west
side of Providence Street south of the intersection, which requires students to cross both Providence
Street and Winthrop Street. The school also has recreational fields on the north side of Winthrop Street
east of the intersection, and recently purchased the former St. Vincent’s Hospital property on the
northeast corner of the intersection, including the parking area on the northwest corner of the intersection.
Crash data provided by the Worcester Police Department crash reports submitted to the RMV and
summarized by BTTC show 28 crashes occurred at the intersection for the three year period from 2008
through 2010. A crash data summary and a collision diagram are included in the Appendix. Of particular
note are rear-end crashes on three of the four intersection approaches – five northbound, four eastbound,
and three westbound. It was suggested that the lack of rear-end crashes on the southbound approach
compared to other approaches is because of the southbound lead phase for left turns, which reduces
congestion for southbound through vehicles. The lack of rear-end crashes on the southbound approach
was attributed to the lead phase for left turns. Angle crashes are also prevalent at the intersection,
including three between a northbound left and a southbound through, two between a westbound left and
an eastbound through, and two between a westbound through and a southbound through. Left turning
Page 5
Road Safety Audit—Vernon Street, Winthrop Street, Providence Street—Worcester, MA
Prepared by BETA Group, Inc.
vehicles colliding with opposite direction through vehicles are likely the result of drivers taking chances
on unacceptable gaps. Collisions between westbound and southbound vehicles could be the result of
drivers entering the intersection after the green phase has ended, potentially frustrated after waiting
behind a stopped left-turning vehicle. Also of note is a crash involving a fire truck turning right from
Providence Street northbound. The truck did not have enough room to navigate the turn, and struck a
queued westbound vehicle. Two fixed object crashes occurred on the southeast corner.
Page 6
Road Safety Audit—Vernon Street, Winthrop Street, Providence Street—Worcester, MA
Prepared by BETA Group, Inc.
Audit Observations
Following a brief introduction to the RSA process and a summary of existing geometry and crash
information, the audit participants were asked to discuss safety issues along Vernon Street, Winthrop
Street and Providence Street. Aerial imagery of the intersection was provided to prompt observations on
safety issues. A summary of those major safety considerations is as follows:
Winthrop Street at Vernon Street

Alignment, Visibility and Intersection Geometry – A number of safety issues discussed by the audit
team related to the alignment of the Vernon Street leg, the horizontal and vertical alignment of the
Vernon Street/Winthrop Street (Route 122A) mainline, and the resultant intersection geometry.
o
The alignment of the yield-controlled south leg of Vernon Street creates a safety concern, as
evidenced by the seven crashes between vehicles departing Vernon Street and through vehicles
on the Vernon Street/Winthrop Street (Route 122A) mainline. Visibility of drivers approaching
from the east is compromised by the alignment, which requires drivers to look back over their
right shoulder to judge available gaps.
o
The steep grade of Winthrop Street and the slight horizontal curve through the Vernon Street
intersection creates a visibility constraint for westbound drivers, which is exacerbated by the
presence of parked cars along the north side on Winthrop Street in front of a row of multi-family
homes. One crash occurred involving a parked car in this area, and it was suggested that crashes
at Endicott Street may be the result of the lack of adequate sight distance for stopped or slowed
traffic. The steep downgrade creates an additional challenge for westbound drivers who need to
stop for stopped or slowed traffic.

Yield Control – The current yield control of the Vernon Street northbound approach was also noted as
a safety concern, and a contributing factor in the seven crashes involving vehicles departing this
approach. It was suggested that drivers do not obey the yield control and often are observed entering
the intersection without yielding.

Pavement Markings – The absence of pavement markings in the center of the intersection results in a
lack of delineation for the eastbound movement from Vernon Street to Winthrop Street. This can
make it difficult for drivers departing the yield-controlled south leg of Vernon Street to discern
whether vehicles are continuing along the mainline or turning right to Vernon Street, especially if
approaching drivers do not use turn signals. This can also confuse drivers turning right from Vernon
Street to stay on Vernon Street, who quickly transition from the wide open intersection to a travel
lane width restricted by a double yellow centerline and parked vehicles. This may impact crashes
involving parked vehicles in this area.

Truck Turns – The width of Vernon Street and the acute angle of Vernon Street and Winthrop Street
create challenges for trucks turning right from Vernon Street northbound to Winthrop Street, as
evidenced by the crash involving a tractor trailer traversing this corner. It was noted that tractor
trailers would not typically need to make this turn, but that it is challenging even for a box truck.
Page 7
Road Safety Audit—Vernon Street, Winthrop Street, Providence Street—Worcester, MA
Prepared by BETA Group, Inc.

Traffic Queuing and Congestion – Local officials noted that queuing is an issue along the Vernon
Street/Winthrop Street corridor both at the intersection with Providence Street and along Winthrop
Street and Vernon Street westbound. Queuing is influenced by vehicles stopped to turn left on
Endicott Street, and may be a factor in crashes at Endicott Street. The downgrade and horizontal
curve approaching from the east may also be contributing factors in a rear-end crash approaching
Endicott Street.

Shrubs at Endicott Street – A hedgerow bordering the property on the northwest corner of the
intersection of Vernon Street and Endicott Street impacts visibility for drivers departing Endicott
Street, and may be a factor in crashes involving vehicles pulling out of Endicott Street, including
pedestrian-related crashes. It was noted that the shrubs can block the view of a pedestrian
approaching from the left. The uphill grade of the Endicott Street approach exacerbates this concern.

Suffield Street Intersection – Visibility for drivers departing Suffield Street is potentially impacted by
cars parked along the west edge of Vernon Street approaching Suffield Street. Three crashes involved
vehicles departing Suffield Street.

Lighting – It was suggested that lighting may be insufficient at the intersection. Lighting is of
particular importance at this location because of the sag vertical curve, which reduces the
effectiveness of headlights for illuminated items a distance down the road. It was noted that a street
light was knocked down at the corner of Vernon Street and Winthrop Street.

Bus Stops – Several bus stops are located in close proximity to the intersection, including one on
Vernon Street in the center of the intersection and one on Vernon Street south of the intersection
opposite Suffield Street. A stopped bus could further impact visibility concerns for vehicles departing
Suffield Street.

Bicycle Accommodations – Accommodation is not provided for bicycles at the intersection.
Shoulders, where provided, are of an inadequate width for accommodation.

Solar Glare – It was noted that solar glare is a concern for vehicles traveling east in the morning and
west in the afternoon. Solar glare may reduce visibility and exacerbate other previously identified
safety concerns.
Winthrop Street at Providence Street

Left Turn Capacity – The lack of left turns was noted as both a safety and operational issue at the
intersection. Vehicles stopped to turn left block the single lane of travel on both Winthrop Street
approaches and on the northbound Providence Street approach. The southbound Providence Street
approach is also marked as a single lane, but is wide enough to allow passage by a stopped vehicle as
long as that vehicle is close to the center line. Crashes on all approaches can likely be attributed to
this delay caused by stopped left turn vehicles, as congestion creates frustration, increases aggression
and increases red light violations and acceptance of inadequate gaps. It was noted that westbound
queues can back up to Granite Street, a distance of approximately 600 feet.
Page 8
Road Safety Audit—Vernon Street, Winthrop Street, Providence Street—Worcester, MA
Prepared by BETA Group, Inc.

Pedestrian Accommodations – Although sidewalks are provided on all approaches and crosswalks are
provided across all four legs, it was suggested that the intersection is not friendly to pedestrians. It
was also noted that the sidewalk on the south side of Winthrop Street east of the intersection ends at
Granite Street.

Signal Equipment – All signal heads are post-mounted at the intersection, which are less visible than
overhead signals. It was also noted that some signal heads are older 8” lenses instead of the current
MassDOT standard 12” lenses, and that no signal head backplates are currently provided.

Solar Glare – Solar glare is a concern for vehicles traveling east uphill in the morning and west in the
afternoon. Solar glare can reduce visibility of the post-mounted signals.

Southeast Corner Turning Radius – It was suggested that the southeast corner turning radius is
inadequate, as evidenced by the crash involving a fire truck turning right from Providence Street to
Winthrop Street.

Bicycle Accommodations – Accommodation is not provided for bicycles at the intersection.
Shoulders, where provided, are of an inadequate width for accommodation.

Signal Timing – Existing signals are pretimed, which provides less efficient operation than actuated
signals. This may lead to congestion, which leads to driver frustration and can contribute to the
history of both angle and rear-end crashes at the intersection. It was noted that the signal runs under
flash at night, with Providence Street getting the flashing yellow while Winthrop Street gets the
flashing red. Five angle crashes at the intersection occurred during flashing operation.

Wall on Northeast Corner – A wall running along the back of sidewalk restricts sight lines for
vehicles traveling west on Winthrop Street.

Shrubs on Southwest Corner – Shrubs along Winthrop Street on the southwest corner of the
intersection are overgrown and are blocking existing signage, as well as encroaching on the clear
sidewalk path.

Bus Stops – A bus stop is located on Providence Street just north of the intersection. A permanent
shelter is provided, but no bus pullout area is present.

Lighting – It was suggested that lighting may be insufficient at the intersection.
Page 9
Road Safety Audit—Vernon Street, Winthrop Street, Providence Street—Worcester, MA
Prepared by BETA Group, Inc.
Potential Safety Enhancements
After discussing safety issues, audit participants were asked to consider improvements. Audit participants
were encouraged to consider both short and long term improvements for each issue. Each improvement
considered has been categorized as short-term, mid-term, or long-term based on the definitions shown in
Table 2. Additionally, a cost category has been assigned to each improvement based on the parameters set
forth in Table 2.
Table 2. Estimated Time Frame and Costs Breakdown
Time Frame
Short-term
<1 year
Costs
Low
Mid-term
1–3 years
Medium
Long-term
>3 years
High
<$10,000
$10,000–$50,000
>$50,000
Winthrop Street at Vernon Street





Provide STOP sign control on Vernon Street at Winthrop Street, and include
graphical STOP Ahead signs on the Vernon Street approach. Changing from
yield to stop control will potentially reduce the frequency of angle collisions
because vehicles will be required to stop instead of “drift” through the
intersection. STOP sign control is already proposed as part of the long-term
improvements; STOP Ahead signs should also be incorporated into the project
design. A change from yield to stop control should also be considered as a
short-term improvement in advance of the project.
Realign the south leg of Vernon Street so that it intersects Winthrop Street at a right angle. This will
greatly improve a driver’s visibility of vehicles approaching from the east, and can reduce the
frequency of angle crashes. A slight widening of the approach with modified pavement markings
incorporates this recommendation into the long-term improvements.
Widen the acute corner of Vernon Street and Winthrop Street to accommodate truck turns. The
proposed design increases this radius to accommodate a single unit (SU) design vehicle. This will
accommodate the types of trucks commonly using the intersection; widening to accommodate a
tractor trailer on this acute corner is not practical.
Reduce the sag curve to the greatest extent feasible as part of the project design. It was noted that the
sag curve is slightly improved within the project as a long-term improvement, but will still be below
MassDOT design guidelines due to existing grading constraints from stairs at the back of sidewalk
along the north edge of Winthrop Street. Improvements to the sag curve will increase visibility for
vehicles traveling westbound on Route 122A.
Provide a median to separate approach and departure traffic on the south leg of Vernon Street. The
project incorporates a painted median on this leg. It was noted that the project originally incorporated
a raised median, but this was changed to a flush painted median due to concerns regarding trucks
Page 10
Road Safety Audit—Vernon Street, Winthrop Street, Providence Street—Worcester, MA
Prepared by BETA Group, Inc.
turning left from Winthrop Street. A raised median with an R4-7 “Keep Right” sign will more clearly
illustrate to drivers the need to stay to the right side of the island, which will align them at a right
angle with Winthrop Street, as previously suggested.







Consider adding rumble strips or scored concrete to the painted median. This improvement was
discussed as a means to enhance the painted median while still allowing encroachment by a turning
vehicle. Audit participants expressed concern that paint alone would fade over time and reduce the
effectiveness of the channelizing markings. It was noted that the noise from rumble strips or scored
concrete could be undesirable to area residents. This is a long-term, potentially medium cost
improvement that should be considered as part of the project.
Provide intersection warning signs along the Winthrop Street/Vernon Street (Route 122A) mainline.
Intersection warning signs with supplemental street name plaques on both sides of the roadway are
part of FHWA short-term, low cost fixes for unsignalized intersections, and can reduce crashes by
making approaching drivers aware of the potential for slowed or entering traffic.
Extend the double yellow centerline from the painted island along Vernon Street in the project design.
Audit participants expressed concern that the gap between the painted island and the beginning of the
double yellow centerline past Suffield Street would create confusion over lane assignments and rightof-way. It was suggested that an extension of the double yellow centerline in conjunction with a
single yellow dotted line could effectively connect the two markings and clearly indicate lane
assignments for through vehicles and for vehicles turning from Suffield Street.
Consider restricting left turns out of Endicott Street, and restricting left turns into Endicott Street on a
time of day basis. Restricting Endicott Street to right turn only was recommended due to the crash
history of Endicott Street and the impact of turning vehicles on queues along Vernon Street and
Winthrop Street. Restricting left turns into Endicott Street during peak periods would eliminate
conflicts created by left turning vehicles. This is a short-term, low cost improvement than can be
implemented in advance of the project improvements.
Provide a dotted yellow centerline extension through the intersection. The lack of markings creates
confusion today as to intended right-of-way, and does not convey that Route 122A is the intended
mainline. Extending the centerline would help channelize vehicles continuing along the Vernon Street
and Winthrop Street (Route 122A) mainline. This is a short-term, low cost improvement that should
also be incorporated into the proposed improvements.
Consider a dotted edge line through the intersection to enhance channelization of eastbound through
vehicles. A dotted edge line would be offset from the double yellow centerline, and would provide a
clear intended path for through vehicles separate from that of right-turning vehicles. This would
provide a clearer indication of a vehicle’s intended path for a driver waiting to depart the stopcontrolled Vernon Street leg. It would also provide definition of the edge of the road if a driver needs
to pull past the stop line to see approaching vehicles. This is a low cost improvement that can be
incorporated in the proposed project.
Consider signalization if STOP control proves ineffective at reducing the frequency and severity of
crashes. It was noted that the intersection meets warrants for signalization, but signalization was not
Page 11
Road Safety Audit—Vernon Street, Winthrop Street, Providence Street—Worcester, MA
Prepared by BETA Group, Inc.
considered due to the steep downhill grade of the Winthrop Street westbound approach. This is a
long-term, high cost improvement that would be considered after implementation and evaluation of
the project improvements.





Trim or relocate shrubs on the northwest corner of Endicott Street and Vernon Street. Shrubs appear
to follow the property line, and could not be relocated without cooperation of the property owner.
Trimming shrubs would improve visibility of approaching vehicles and pedestrians for drivers
departing Endicott Street. This is a short-term, low cost improvement.
Consider converting Suffield Street to one-way away from Vernon Street. This improvement would
eliminate conflicts and concerns for vehicles departing Suffield Street. It was noted that the street grid
easily accommodates this modification, although it could increase traffic exiting via Endicott Street.
This is a short-term, low cost improvement that can be implemented in advance of the project
improvements.
Upgrade street lighting at the intersection, where feasible. Street lighting should be reviewed as part
of the project and upgraded where necessary to provide improved lighting. Lighting assists both
drivers and pedestrians.
Consider relocating or eliminating bus stops in the vicinity of the intersection. It was suggested that
the existing bus stop in the center of the intersection could be relocated outside of the intersection,
and that one of the two stops along Vernon Street could be eliminated. This should be done as part of
the project improvements in coordination with Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA). This
improvement, if implemented, would reduce conflicts between buses and vehicles within the
intersection.
Widen shoulders. The intersecting roadways should be widened to provide minimum 5-foot shoulders
where feasible as part of the planned improvements. This mid-term, high cost improvement will
provide additional pavement width for turning vehicles and will meet MassDOT’s standard for
bicycle accommodation. Audit participants suggested that further shoulder widening, if implemented,
should be accomplished by overall widening or by reduction in lane widths, not by reduction in
sidewalk widths.
Winthrop Street at Providence Street


Upgrade signals to provide overhead signals with retroreflective backplates, and add supplemental
heads where appropriate to increase visibility. This is a long-term, high cost improvement assumed to
be incorporated into the proposed project. The upgraded signal should be fully actuated with detection
on all approaches.
Eliminate overnight flashing operation. It was noted that existing pretimed signals are put on flash to
prevent drivers from having to make unnecessary stops during overnight hours. A fully actuated
signal only stops mainline vehicles when a vehicle is present on the side street. This is a short-term
improvement that should also be incorporated into the project design. This improvement is likely to
reduce the frequency of crashes occurring at night.
Page 12
Road Safety Audit—Vernon Street, Winthrop Street, Providence Street—Worcester, MA
Prepared by BETA Group, Inc.








Provide left turn lanes on all intersection approaches. It was noted that this improvement is included
in the proposed project, and that protected/permissive phasing will be provided for the Providence
Street approaches while permissive only phasing will be provided for the Winthrop Street approaches.
The introduction of left turn lanes will eliminate delay that exists today for through vehicles blocked
by waiting left turning vehicles.
Consider flashing yellow arrows for protected/permissive operation. The flashing yellow arrow is
included in the 2009 MUTCD and supplants the green ball indication for permissive operation. A
flashing yellow arrow should be considered for incorporation into the project design at this location.
Consider streetscape improvements. It was suggested that street trees in the sidewalk would enhance
the area and provide a buffer between vehicles and pedestrians. The project design should be
reviewed to determine if trees can be incorporated as a long-term improvement.
Consider an illuminated “Red Signal Ahead” sign if signal visibility
is inadequate for the Winthrop Street eastbound approach. An
illuminated Red Signal Ahead sign would alert drivers both to the
presence and current indication of the traffic signal. This is a medium
cost improvement that can be incorporated into the project.
Widen the southeast corner to accommodate truck turns. It was noted
that the project includes a channelized right turn lane on this corner
from Providence Street northbound to Winthrop Street eastbound,
matching the channelized right turn lane which is to be retained and
upgraded on the northwest corner. This improvement would better
accommodate turning vehicles, including emergency vehicles.
Widen shoulders. The intersecting roadways should be widened to provide minimum 5-foot shoulders
where feasible as part of the planned improvements. This mid-term, high cost improvement will
provide additional pavement width for turning vehicles and will meet MassDOT’s standard for
bicycle accommodation. Audit participants suggested that further shoulder widening, if implemented,
should be accomplished by overall widening or by reduction in lane widths, not by reduction in
sidewalk widths.
Relocate the wall on the northeast corner of the intersection. The wall will be relocated in the
proposed design to facilitate widening of lanes and shoulders on the east leg of the intersection,
providing improved visibility for Winthrop Street traffic.
Work with Worcester Academy to incorporate pedestrian paths within the future redevelopment of
the St. Vincent’s property. Paths connecting to the sidewalk on both Winthrop Street and Providence
Street would provide an alternate route for pedestrians that is more aesthetically pleasing and
encourages walking in the area. This is a mid-term, medium cost improvement. Pedestrian paths
would provide an alternative to the sidewalk adjacent to the roadway, but sidewalks adjacent to the
roadway must still be provided as part of proposed improvements.
Page 13
Road Safety Audit—Vernon Street, Winthrop Street, Providence Street—Worcester, MA
Prepared by BETA Group, Inc.



Consider relocating bus stops in the vicinity of the intersection. Bus stops should be relocated to
reduce impacts to traffic while still meeting pedestrian desire lines. This should be done as part of the
project improvements in coordination with Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA).
Trim shrubs and other vegetation along the southwest corner of the intersection. This would reduce
encroachment on visibility and on existing signage. This is a short-term, low cost improvement that
can be done in advance of proposed improvements.
Upgrade street lighting at the intersection, where feasible. Street lighting should be reviewed as part
of the project and upgraded where necessary to provide improved lighting. Lighting assists both
drivers and pedestrians.
Summary of Road Safety Audit
Table 3 summarizes potential recommendations discussed by the audit team. The recommendations are
categorized based on the potential safety payoff, as well as by time frame and cost. The safety payoff is a
qualitative judgment of the effectiveness of the potential safety improvements. Each recommendation has
a responsibility assigned to it stating whether MassDOT or the City of Worcester would be responsible
for implementing the recommended improvement. The term “Project” refers to improvements that are
assumed to be included or could reasonably be accommodated as part of planned improvements.
Page 14
Road Safety Audit—Vernon Street, Winthrop Street, Providence Street—Worcester, MA
Prepared by BETA Group, Inc.
Table 3. Potential Safety Enhancement Summary
Responsibility
Safety
Payoff
Time
Frame
Cost
City
High
Short-term
$500
Project
High
Long-term
Low**
Alignment, Visibility
Realign the south leg of Vernon Street so that it intersects Winthrop
and Intersection
Street at a right angle.
Geometry
Project
High
Long-term
High**
Alignment, Truck
Turns
Widen the acute corner of Vernon Street and Winthrop Street to
accommodate truck turns.
Project
Medium
Long-term
Medium**
Alignment, Visibility
Reduce the sag curve to the greatest extent feasible as part of the
project design.
Project
Medium
Long-term
Medium**
Pavement
Markings
Provide a median to separate approach and departure traffic on the
south leg of Vernon Street.
Project
Medium
Long-term
Low**
Alignment
Consider adding rumble strips or scored concrete to the painted
median.
Project
Medium
Long-term
Medium*
Visibility
Provide intersection warning signs along the Winthrop Street/Vernon
Street (Route 122A) mainline.
City
Medium
Short-term
$1,000
Pavement
Markings
Extend the double yellow centerline from the painted island along
Vernon Street in the project design. This can include an extension of
the double yellow centerline in conjunction with a dotted yellow
centerline in the vicinity of Suffield Street.
Project
Medium
Long-term
Low*
Traffic Queuing
and Congestion
Consider restricting left turns out of Endicott Street, and restricting
left turns into Endicott Street on a time of day basis.
City
High
Short-term
$1,000
Pavement
Markings
Provide a dotted yellow centerline extension through the
intersection.
City
Medium
Short-term
$1,000
Project
Medium
Long-term
Low**
Pavement
Markings
Consider a dashed edge line through the intersection to enhance
channelization of eastbound through vehicles.
Project
Medium
Long-term
Low*
City
High
Long-term
High
Safety Issue
Safety Enhancement
Winthrop Street at Vernon Street
Yield Control
Provide STOP sign control on Vernon Street at Winthrop Street, and
include graphical STOP Ahead signs on the Vernon Street
approach.
Alignment, Visibility
Consider signalization if STOP control proves ineffective at reducing
and Intersection
the frequency and severity of crashes.
Geometry
Page 15
Road Safety Audit—Vernon Street, Winthrop Street, Providence Street—Worcester, MA
Prepared by BETA Group, Inc.
Table 3. Potential Safety Enhancement Summary
Responsibility
Safety
Payoff
Time
Frame
Cost
Trim or relocate shrubs on the northeast corner of Endicott Street
and Vernon Street.
City
High
Short-term
$2,000
Suffield Street
Consider converting Suffield Street to one-way away from Vernon
Street.
City
Medium
Short-term
$1,000
Lighting
Upgrade street lighting at the intersection, where feasible.
Project
Medium
Long-term
High**
Bus Stops
Consider relocating or eliminating bus stops in the vicinity of the
intersection.
Project/WRTA
Medium
Long-term
TBD*
Project
Medium
Long-term
High**
Project
High
Long-term
High**
Safety Issue
Safety Enhancement
Shrubs at Endicott
Street
Bicycle
Accommodation
Widen shoulders to provide a minimum 5-foot shoulder, where
feasible.
Winthrop Street at Providence Street
Signal Equipment,
Solar Glare
Upgrade signals to provide overhead signals with retroreflective
backplates, and add supplemental heads where appropriate to
increase visibility.
Signal Equipment,
Signal Timing
Eliminate overnight flashing operation under the proposed signal
design.
City
Low
Short-term
Low
Project
Low
Long-term
Low*
Left Turn Capacity
Provide left turn lanes on all intersection approaches.
Project
High
Long-term
High**
Left Turn Capacity
Consider flashing yellow arrows for protected/permissive operation.
Project
Low
Long-term
TBD*
Pedestrian
Accommodation
Consider streetscape improvements.
Project
Low
Long-term
Medium*
Solar Glare
Consider an illuminated “RED Signal Ahead” sign if signal visibility is
inadequate for the Winthrop Street eastbound approach.
Project
Medium
Long-term
$15,000
SE Corner Turning
Radius
Widen the southeast corner to accommodate truck turns.
Project
Medium
Long-term
High**
Bicycle
Accommodation
Widen shoulders to provide a minimum 5-foot shoulder, where
feasible.
Project
Medium
Long-term
High**
Wall on NE Corner
Relocate the wall on the northeast corner of the intersection.
Project
Medium
Long-term
High**
Page 16
Road Safety Audit—Vernon Street, Winthrop Street, Providence Street—Worcester, MA
Prepared by BETA Group, Inc.
Table 3. Potential Safety Enhancement Summary
Responsibility
Safety
Payoff
Time
Frame
Cost
Work with Worcester Academy to incorporate pedestrian paths
within the future redevelopment of the St. Vincent’s property.
City
Low
Mid-term
TBD
Bus Stops
Consider relocating bus stops in the vicinity of the intersection.
Project/WRTA
Medium
Long-term
TBD*
Shrubs on SW
Corner
Trim shrubs and other vegetation along the southwest corner of the
intersection.
City
Medium
Short-term
$2,000
Lighting
Upgrade street lighting at the intersection, where feasible.
Project
Medium
Long-term
High**
Safety Issue
Safety Enhancement
Pedestrian
Accommodation
*
These improvements are not known to be part of the proposed project and should be considered in the next submission. All other “Project”
safety enhancements are assumed to already be included in the proposed improvements.
** Improvements to be incorporated into the proposed project are assumed to be included as part of the overall project cost.
Page 17
Road Safety Audit—Vernon Street, Winthrop Street, Providence Street—Worcester, MA
Prepared by BETA Group, Inc.
Appendix A. RSA Meeting Agenda
Road Safety Audit
Worcester, MA
Vernon St., Winthrop St. and Providence St.
Meeting Location: CMRPC offices
2 Washington Square, Union Station, Worcester, MA
Thursday, February 6, 2014
10:00 AM – 12:00 noon
Type of meeting:
High Crash Location – Road Safety Audit
Attendees:
Invited Participants to Comprise a Multidisciplinary Team
Please bring:
Thoughts and Enthusiasm!!
10:00 AM
Welcome and Introductions
10:15 AM
Discussion of Safety Issues
• Crash history
• Existing Geometries and Conditions
11:00 AM
Site Visit
•
11:30 AM
Drive to the intersections of Vernon St., Winthrop St. and Providence St. As
a group, identify areas for improvement
Discussion of Potential Improvements
• Discuss observations and finalize safety issue areas
• Discuss potential improvements and finalize recommendations
12:00 noon
Adjourn for the Day – but the RSA has not ended
Instructions for Participants:
• Before attending the RSA on February 6, 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—Vernon Street, Winthrop Street, Providence Street—Worcester, MA
Prepared by BETA Group, Inc.
Appendix B. RSA Audit Team Contact List
Participating Audit Team Members
Worcester – Vernon St, Winthrop St, Providence St
Email Address
Date: February 6, 2014
Audit Team Member
Location:
Agency/Affiliation
Greg Lucas
Justin Curewitz
Lola Campbell
Jerry Powers
Karin Valentine Goins
Zach Dyer
Corey O’Connor
Craig Roberts
Lisa Schletzbaum
Kevin Krasnecky
Dan Daniska
Sujatha Mohanakrishnan
Joe Borbone
Kevin Krusas
Lloyd Bristol
BETA
BETA
MassDOT District 3
Walk Bike Worcester
Walk Bike Worcester
Worcester DPH
MassDOT – Safety
MassDOT – Safety
MassDOT – Safety
CMRPC
CMRPC
CMRPC
Worcester DPW+P
Worcester Police
Bristol Traffic & Trans.
GLucas@BETA-Inc.com
JCurewitz@BETA-Inc.com
Alolade.Campbell@dot.state.ma.us
Gerald.Powers@charter.net
KVGoins@charter.net
dyerz@worcesterma.gov
Corey.oconnor@state.ma.us
Craig.Roberts@state.ma.us
Lisa.schletzbaum@state.ma.us
KKrasnecky@CMRPC.org
ddaniska@CMRPC.org
sujatha@CMRPC.org
BorboneJ@worcesterma.gov
1971monte@Charter.net
Lloyd@Bristolttc.net
Phone Number
781-255-1982
781-255-1982
508-929-3887
508-791-3139
508-752-9742
508-799-8120
857-368-9638
857-368-9638
857-368-9634
508-459-3314
508-459-3331
508-459-3335
508-929-1300
508-769-9200
508-867-9048
Road Safety Audit—Vernon Street, Winthrop Street, Providence Street—Worcester, MA
Prepared by BETA Group, Inc.
Appendix C. Detailed Crash Data
CITY OF WORCESTER
Winthrop Street Roadway Improvement Project
Road Safety Audit Data
CITY OF WORCESTER
ROADWAY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
WINTHROP STREET AT VERNON AND PROVIDENCE STREETS
2010 HSIP CLUSTER INTERSECTIONS
(MassDOT Project File No. 605740)
NARRATIVE, LOCUS, MDOT ACCIDENT LISTING, 2008-2010
COLLISION DIAGRAMS FROM POLICE RECORDS & MDOTRMV RECORDS, SPEED DATA, TRAFFIC COUNTS, EXISTING
CONDITIONS PLANS, PROPOSED STRIPING 25% PLANS,
EXISTING SIGNAL TIMINGS
(ACCIDENT RECORDS FOUND IN SEPARATE PDF DOCUMENTS)
Prepared For:
City of Worcester Department of
Public Works & Parks
December 2013
Prepared By:
Bristol Traffic & Transportation Consulting LLC
N. Brookfield, MA
BTTC
2
CITY OF WORCESTER
Winthrop Street Roadway Improvement Project
PREFACE
This projects' 25% design and Functional Design Report analysis was previously completed
by Cullinan Engineering Co., Inc and was submitted to the City of Worcester in April of
2011 for internal review prior to submittal for the 25% MDOT review. Upon completion of
the City review, Cullinan closed for business, therefore the 25% could not be submitted at
that time. Bristol Traffic & Transportation Consulting LLC (BTTC) is now under
contract with the City of Worcester to complete the design. The majority of the design,
and this FDR, do not require modifications, therefore BTTC will retain the previous work
by Cullinan and will only revise portions or supply new information as necessary to
respond to comments as will be received by MDOT. Some documents will be submitted in
their entirety with the Cullinan name intact, to save the City the expense of simply revising
all previously completed work. BTTC will react to any questions on this submittal directly.
Upon receiving the 25% comments, all future documents will be solely authored by BTTC.
At this time BTTC has reviewed the Cullinan submittal items and will respond to any and
all review comments received. Unfortunately this has caused a delay in submittal so a presubmittal was made to District 3 with their comments addressed.
1.
NARRATIVE
The City of Worcester has identified the need to improve pedestrian and vehicular travel along
Winthrop Street / Vernon Street between Endicott Street and Granite Street. The limits of the
project are described in detail below and are shown in Figure 1. The project goal is to provide an
efficient, direct and aesthetically pleasing roadway for pedestrians and vehicles. Contained within
this report are analyses of the existing traffic conditions, future traffic projections and proposed
solutions to existing and future capacity shortfalls that meet established goals.
1.1
Study Area
Winthrop Street via Vernon Street connects with I-290 only 0.25 miles to the west. This arterial
provides access to the downtown area and the major interstate highway system and is a connector
from other arterials to the east. Improved operations will improve viability for businesses in the
Central Business District of Worcester. This report has studied this corridor, including the local
arterial intersections, within the project limits as directed by the City of Worcester.
The project is approximately 0.34 miles (1,805 ft) beginning at the intersection of Endicott Street
/ Vernon Street, and ending 200 feet east of the intersection of Granite Street / Winthrop Street /
Heywood Street. Within the project limits there are three major intersecting roadways (i.e.
Providence Street, Vernon Street and Granite Street), that are to be reconstructed to a distance of
approximately 125 to 500 feet from their intersection with Winthrop Street.
BTTC
3
CITY OF WORCESTER
Winthrop Street Roadway Improvement Project
2.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
The existing major roadways and intersections for this corridor are detailed in this section. Figure
1 provides a Locus of the existing roadways and intersections within the project limits.
2.1
Existing Street System
2.1.1 Existing Roadways
Winthrop Street
Winthrop Street spans between Vernon Street and Granite Street carrying traffic generally in an
east-west direction, connecting the downtown area with other minor arterials to the east. It is
classified as an Urban Minor Arterial and is designated as Route 122A between Vernon Street and
Providence Street. Between Providence Street and Granite Street, Winthrop Street is classified as
an Urban Collector. Currently the roadway is striped for two travel lanes, one for each travel
direction, with pavement width varying between 28 and 32 feet with no shoulder demarcation.
On-street parking is prohibited except on the north side between Vernon Street and Arlington
Street. There is no posted speed limit.
Providence Street
Providence Street is classified as an Urban Minor Arterial beginning at Winthrop Street south to
Millbury Street and it is designated as Route 122A for this segment. It is classified as an Urban
Collector north of Winthrop Street. Providence Street carries traffic in generally a north-south
direction connecting to Grafton Street to the north and to the Millbury Street / Route 146
interchange to the south. Roadway width varies from 28 to 32 feet and is striped for two travel
lanes. On street parking is permitted along various segments. Public transportation is provided
along this roadway with bus kiosks provided at stops. There is no posted speed limit.
Vernon Street
Vernon Street is classified as an Urban Minor Arterial and is designated as Route 122A between
Winthrop Street and I-290 to the northwest. It is classified as an Urban Collector south of its'
intersection with Winthrop Street. Vernon Street carries traffic in generally a north-south
direction connecting directly to I-290 to the north and to Millbury Street to the south. The
roadway is striped for two travel lanes. On street parking is permitted along various segments of
the roadway with public transportation access points. There is no posted speed limit.
2.1.2 Existing Study Intersections
There are three critical intersections along Winthrop Street that have been studied as part of this
functional design report. From west to east these are at Vernon Street, Providence Street and
Granite Street. Traffic control at the Winthrop Street / Providence Street intersection is
accomplished with a traffic signal while Vernon Street is yield controlled and Granite Street is
stop sign controlled. Winthrop Street at both Providence Street and Vernon Street are listed as
2010 HSIP intersection, thus requiring this Road Safety Audit.
BTTC
2
Crash Number
Crash Date
2362635
1/4/2008
2362977
Crash Time
Crash Severity
Manner of Collision
Street Number
Roadway
Police Agency
7:25 PM Non-fatal injury
Head-on
WINTHROP STREET / PROVIDENCE STREET
Local police
1/23/2008
5:00 AM Property damage only (none injured)
Angle
WINTHROP STREET / ARLINGTON STREET
Local police
2404138
4/9/2007
12:15 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Angle
VERNON STREET / WINTHROP STREET
2424238
4/15/2008
2:45 AM Property damage only (none injured)
Angle
ENDICOTT STREET / VERNON STREET
Local police
2429387
9/8/2008
2:02 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Angle
PROVIDENCE STREET
State police
2438350
3/16/2008
2:50 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Sideswipe, same direction
WINTHROP STREET / PROVIDENCE STREET
2438832
2/7/2008
1:36 AM Property damage only (none injured)
Angle
PROVIDENCE STREET / WINTHROP STREET
Local police
2438982
2/4/2008
9:30 AM Non-fatal injury
Angle
VERNON STREET / WINTHROP STREET
Local police
2438987
2/28/2008
10:50 AM Property damage only (none injured)
Head-on
WINTHROP STREET Rte 122A N /
PROVIDENCE STREET
Local police
2442956
2/15/2008
9:48 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Rear-end
PROVIDENCE STREET / WINTHROP STREET
Local police
2443531
3/24/2008
2:00 PM Non-fatal injury
Unknown
ENDICOTT STREET / VERNON STREET
Local police
2444096
3/3/2008
12:27 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Angle
VERNON STREET / SUFFIELD STREET
Local police
2444672
3/31/2008
6:00 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Sideswipe, same direction
VERNON STREET / SUFFIELD STREET
Local police
2445229
4/18/2008
4:30 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Rear-end
ENDICOTT STREET / VERNON STREET
Local police
2448425
5/27/2008
6:40 PM Non-fatal injury
Angle
SUFFIELD STREET / VERNON STREET
Local police
2448584
6/12/2008
12:15 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Angle
ENDICOTT STREET / VERNON STREET
Local police
2464051
8/22/2008
10:00 AM Not Reported
Angle
WINTHROP STREET / ARLINGTON STREET
Local police
2466445
8/3/2008
3:15 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Angle
VERNON STREET / ENDICOTT STREET
Local police
2466630
8/3/2008
4:12 PM Non-fatal injury
Rear-end
PROVIDENCE STREET / WINTHROP STREET
Local police
2479117
9/6/2008
6:46 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Angle
VERNON STREET / ENDICOTT STREET
Local police
2481152
10/9/2008
9:30 PM Non-fatal injury
Head-on
VERNON STREET / WINTHROP STREET
Local police
2481689
10/7/2008
10:58 AM Property damage only (none injured)
Angle
VERNON STREET / WINTHROP STREET
Local police
2481759
10/11/2008
1:39 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Single vehicle crash
ENDICOTT STREET / VERNON STREET
Local police
2482031
10/4/2008
8:22 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Angle
WINTHROP STREET / VERNON STREET
Local police
2482290
10/18/2008
6:00 PM Non-fatal injury
Angle
67 VERNON STREET
Local police
2486020
12/11/2008
9:04 AM Property damage only (none injured)
Angle
12 WINTHROP STREET
Local police
2486230
12/12/2008
6:00 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Sideswipe, same direction
2487260
12/18/2008
2:15 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Sideswipe, same direction
2487760
12/23/2008
8:00 AM Not Reported
Single vehicle crash
2490526
11/7/2008
8:45 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Single vehicle crash
2497227
7/29/2008
5:45 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Single vehicle crash
VERNON STREET Rte 122A N / WINTHROP
STREET Rte 122A S
64 VERNON STREET
WINTHROP STREET / ARLINGTON STREET
10 WINTHROP STREET
WINTHROP STREET / PROVIDENCE STREET
Local police
Local police
Local police
Local police
2501259
1/16/2009
6:46 AM Property damage only (none injured)
Rear-end
17 WINTHROP STREET
2503910
1/17/2009
8:45 AM Non-fatal injury
Angle
PROVIDENCE STREET / WINTHROP STREET
Local police
2504089
1/16/2009
10:36 AM Property damage only (none injured)
Rear-end
WINTHROP STREET / PROVIDENCE STREET
Local police
2505458
1/19/2009
1:00 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Single vehicle crash
2505482
1/21/2009
7:21 PM Non-fatal injury
Angle
PROVIDENCE STREET / WINTHROP STREET /
HEYWOOD STREET
Local police
2510544
4/25/2009
12:52 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Angle
VERNON STREET / ENDICOTT STREET
Local police
2519178
5/2/2009
3:42 AM Property damage only (none injured)
Angle
PROVIDENCE STREET / WINTHROP STREET
Local police
2520256
5/4/2009
9:29 PM Non-fatal injury
Rear-end
WINTHROP STREET / PROVIDENCE STREET
Local police
2522642
6/12/2009
7:30 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Sideswipe, opposite direction
WINTHROP STREET / PROVIDENCE STREET
Local police
2529804
6/13/2009
2:04 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Rear-end
67 VERNON STREET
Local police
2531351
7/6/2009
11:05 AM Property damage only (none injured)
Angle
61 VERNON STREET
Local police
2531354
7/8/2009
10:44 AM Property damage only (none injured)
Single vehicle crash
VERNON STREET / ENDICOTT STREET
Local police
2535861
9/11/2009
10:03 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Angle
VERNON STREET Rte 122A N / ENDICOTT
STREET
Local police
2536330
9/5/2009
7:07 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Head-on
WINTHROP STREET / PROVIDENCE STREET
Local police
2538224
8/26/2009
3:44 AM Non-fatal injury
Angle
WINTHROP STREET / PROVIDENCE STREET
Local police
2538637
10/12/2009
8:52 AM Property damage only (none injured)
Rear-end
HEYWOOD STREET / PROVIDENCE STREET
Local police
2540726
10/29/2009
9:30 AM Not Reported
Angle
VERNON STREET Rte 122A N / ENDICOTT
STREET
Local police
2540731
10/27/2009
4:12 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Sideswipe, same direction
2555905
9/29/2009
7:15 AM Property damage only (none injured)
Rear-end
WINTHROP STREET / ARLINGTON STREET
Local police
2563391
11/2/2009
1:10 PM Non-fatal injury
Angle
VERNON STREET / WINTHROP STREET
Local police
2563517
12/19/2009
2:35 PM Non-fatal injury
Rear-end
2569314
11/14/2009
11:30 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Rear-end
WINTHROP STREET / PROVIDENCE STREET
Local police
2569315
11/15/2009
10:30 AM Property damage only (none injured)
Rear-end
VERNON STREET / ENDICOTT STREET
Local police
2569685
10/29/2009
8:15 AM Not Reported
Rear-end
PROVIDENCE STREET / WINTHROP STREET
Local police
2569779
10/31/2009
10:40 PM Non-fatal injury
Head-on
VERNON STREET / WINTHROP STREET
Local police
2572609
11/27/2009
10:30 AM Non-fatal injury
Angle
VERNON STREET / SUFFIELD STREET
Local police
2610750
1/17/2009
8:30 AM Non-fatal injury
Angle
PROVIDENCE STREET / WINTHROP STREET
2612385
6/5/2010
7:10 AM Property damage only (none injured)
Angle
PROVIDENCE STREET
10 WINTHROP STREET
19 WINTHROP STREET
20 WINTHROP STREET
Local police
Local police
Local police
Local police
State police
2619986
1/12/2010
8:20 AM Property damage only (none injured)
Angle
PROVIDENCE STREET / WINTHROP STREET
Local police
2620080
1/11/2010
9:20 AM Property damage only (none injured)
Angle
WINTHROP STREET / PROVIDENCE STREET
Local police
2623278
2/26/2010
2:15 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Sideswipe, same direction
2623308
2/27/2010
1:49 AM Non-fatal injury
Single vehicle crash
2623354
3/12/2010
12:20 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Angle
2623865
3/19/2010
1:40 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Angle
WINTHROP STREET / VERNON STREET
Local police
2625902
4/26/2010
12:24 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Rear-end
WINTHROP STREET / PROVIDENCE STREET
Local police
2625957
4/19/2010
8:03 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Sideswipe, opposite direction
2631565
5/31/2010
8:57 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Angle
2634431
8/13/2010
9:00 AM Property damage only (none injured)
Single vehicle crash
VERNON STREET / WINTHROP STREET
Local police
2654128
7/5/2010
7:11 PM Non-fatal injury
Rear-end
PROVIDENCE STREET / WINTHROP STREET
Local police
2660064
7/19/2010
3:30 PM Non-fatal injury
Single vehicle crash
VERNON STREET / SUFFIELD STREET
Local police
2667064
7/28/2010
5:34 PM Non-fatal injury
Angle
VERNON STREET / SUFFIELD STREET
Local police
2682034
8/19/2010
9:24 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Single vehicle crash
VERNON STREET / ENDICOTT STREET
Local police
2685989
8/29/2010
2:01 AM Property damage only (none injured)
Angle
PROVIDENCE STREET / WINTHROP STREET
Local police
2685992
8/29/2010
12:00 AM Non-fatal injury
2688133
9/1/2010
7:07 AM Not Reported
2690878
9/17/2010
2691751
8/8/2010
3:11 AM Non-fatal injury
2693645
9/20/2010
2694570
9/22/2010
2694587
9/20/2010
2699048
10:20 AM Property damage only (none injured)
Angle
Single vehicle crash
64 VERNON STREET
VERNON STREET / WINTHROP STREET
64 VERNON STREET
Local police
Local police
Local police
1 WINTHROP STREET
Local police
23 WINTHROP STREET
Local police
PROVIDENCE STREET / WINTHROP STREET / Local police
VERNON STREET / WINTHROP STREET /
64 VERNON STREET
Local police
Rear-end
ENDICOTT STREET / VERNON STREET
Local police
Single vehicle crash
PROVIDENCE STREET / WINTHROP STREET
Local police
12:35 PM Non-fatal injury
Rear-end
SUFFIELD STREET / VERNON STREET
Local police
12:54 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Rear-end
WINTHROP STREET / VERNON STREET
Local police
2:31 PM Non-fatal injury
Rear-end
VERNON STREET / WINTHROP STREET
Local police
10/13/2010
8:14 PM Non-fatal injury
Single vehicle crash
WINTHROP STREET / VERNON STREET
Local police
2722181
12/13/2010
6:20 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Angle
PROVIDENCE STREET / WINTHROP STREET
Local police
2725113
12/15/2010
7:45 PM Not Reported
Unknown
2765074
1/1/2010
11:20 AM Property damage only (none injured)
2784311
5/18/2010
5:50 PM Property damage only (none injured)
Rear-end
Sideswipe, same direction
42 WINTHROP STREET
WINTHROP STREET / PROVIDENCE STREET
64 VERNON STREET
Local police
Local police
Local police
Crash Data Summary Tables and Charts
Worcester, Vernon Street, Winthrop Street and Providence Street Intersections
CRASH MONTH
20%
15%
15%
12%
10%
8%
7%
5%
11%
8%
7%
9%
8%
7%
4%
5%
0%
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
CRASH DAY OF WEEK
25%
23%
23%
20%
16%
15%
11%
12%
10%
9%
7%
5%
0%
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
CRASH TIME OF DAY
20%
15%
10%
5%
0%
15%
12% 12% 12% 12%
5%
6AM8AM
9%
8%
4% 3%
8AM10AM
10AM12PM
12PM2PM
2PM4PM
4PM6PM
6PM8PM
8PM10PM
10PM12AM
7%
12AM2AM
1%
2AM4AM
4AM6AM
CRASH MANNER OF COLLISION
37%
40%
27%
30%
20%
16%
11%
10%
0%
1%
Single
Vehicle
Crash
Charts prepared by MassDOT
Rear-end
Angle
Sideswipe, Sideswipe,
same
opposite
direction
direction
Source: MassDOT's data base
5%
0%
Head on
Rear to
Rear
3%
Unknown
1 of 2
Crash Data Summary Tables and Charts
Worcester, Vernon Street, Winthrop Street and Providence Street Intersections
CRASH LIGHT CONDITION
80%
69%
60%
29%
40%
20%
0%
Daylight
0%
1%
Dawn
Dusk
Dark Lighted
Roadway
0%
0%
0%
0%
Dark Roadway
not lighted
Dark unknown
roadway
lighting
Other
Unknown
CRASH WEATHER CONDITION
80%
68%
60%
40%
80%
Severe
Crosswinds
Fog, Smog,
Smoke
0%
0%
0%
0%
Unknown
Sleet, Hail,
Freezing
Rain
0%
Other
0%
Blowing
sand, snow
1%
Snow
16%
Rain
Clear
0%
Cloudy
15%
20%
CRASH ROAD SURFACE
75%
60%
40%
23%
20%
0%
Dry
Charts prepared by MassDOT
Wet
3%
0%
Snow
Ice
0%
0%
Sand, mud, Water
dirt, oil, (standing,
gravel
moving)
Source: MassDOT's data base
0%
0%
0%
Slush
Other
Unknown
2 of 2
Road Safety Audit—Vernon Street, Winthrop Street, Providence Street—Worcester, MA
Prepared by BETA Group, Inc.
Appendix D. Traffic Volume Data
CITY OF WORCESTER
Winthrop Street Roadway Improvement Project
Speed Study
A spot speed was conducted over a three day period between September 14-16, along Winthrop
Street east and west of Providence Street, and over a two day period between September 22-23
along Providence Street north and south of Winthrop Street to determine the 85% travel speed.
The speed limit for both Winthrop Street and Providence Street is not posted, so the Prima Facie
speed limit is deemed to be 30 MPH. The results of the speed study are summarized in Table 5
below. All numbers are the average of the three day study period. The 85% speed for Winthrop
Street is 30 MPH or less and the design speed selected is 30 MPH.
Table 5
SPOT SPEED STUDY
50th
Percentil
e
85th
Percentile
10 Mph
Pace
Roadway
Posted Speed
Average
Speed
Winthrop St west of
Providence St
WB
EB
PRIMA FACIE
PRIMA FACIE
25.7
19
26
20
30
24
21-30
15-24
Winthrop St east of
Providence St
WB
EB
PRIMA FACIE
PRIMA FACIE
20
26
20.3
26
30
30
16.7-26.3
21-30
Providence St south
of Winthrop St
NB
SB
PRIMA FACIE
PRIMA FACIE
21
26
21
26
27
30
18-27
21.5-30.5
Providence St north
of Winthrop St
NB
SB
PRIMA FACIE
PRIMA FACIE
27.5
25.5
27.5
26
33
31
25-34
20-29
BTTC
20
Winthrop Street / Vernon Street
Existing 2010 Peak Hour Turning Movement Count
Worcester, MA - Winthrop Street @ Vernon Street
Turning Movements for One hour Starting with 7:15 AM
Counts conducted by Accurate Counts - Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Weather: Clear
N
WINTHROP STREET
797
564
7:15-8:15
AM
412
152
610
17
627
434
VERNON STREET
169
1400
22
Total Hour
Volume=
187
1061
209
K=
0.09
VERNON STREET
Turning Movements for One hour Starting with 1:00 PM
Counts conducted by Accurate Counts - Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Weather: Clear
N
WINTHROP STREET
563
606
1:00-2:00
MD
391
215
455
28
483
411
VERNON STREET
243
1217
20
Total Hour
Volume=
108
894
128
K=
0.09
VERNON STREET
Turning Movements for One hour Starting with 4:30 PM
Counts conducted by Accurate Counts - Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Weather: Clear
N
WINTHROP STREET
753
784
4:30-5:30
PM
526
258
581
33
614
550
VERNON STREET
291
1594
24
Total Hour
Volume=
172
1164
196
K=
0.09
VERNON STREET
TurnCountForm.xls
20800072/Winthrop/25%/
Rpt-Anal
Figure 2
Compiled By: Cullinan Engineering Co., Inc.
Winthrop Street / Providence Street
Existing 2010 Peak Hour Turning Movement Count
Worcester, MA - Winthrop Street @ Providence Street
Turning Movements for One hour Starting with 7:15 AM
Counts conducted by Accurate Counts - Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Weather: Clear
PROVIDENCE STREET
103
N
164
62
329
278
WINTHROP STREET
677
416
7:15-8:15
AM
27
353
36
47
461
52
560
546
WINTHROP STREET
90
252
1753
204
Total Hour
Volume=
154
1106
448
K=
0.09
PROVIDENCE STREET
Turning Movements for One hour Starting with 12:30 PM
Counts conducted by Accurate Counts - Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Weather: Clear
PROVIDENCE STREET
98
184
43
325
N
209
WINTHROP STREET
441
383
12:30-1:30
MD
20
324
39
34
324
94
452
489
WINTHROP STREET
67
317
1456
155
Total Hour
Volume=
74
941
296
K=
0.09
PROVIDENCE STREET
Turning Movements for One hour Starting with 4:30 PM
Counts conducted by Accurate Counts - Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Weather: Clear
PROVIDENCE STREET
119
309
75
503
N
212
WINTHROP STREET
577
577
4:30-5:30
PM
12
514
51
32
403
74
509
722
WINTHROP STREET
1945
89
168
434
99
1231
Total Hour
Volume=
356
K=
0.09
PROVIDENCE STREET
TurnCountForm.xls
20800072/Winthrop/25%/
Rpt_Anal
Figure 3
Compiled By: Cullinan Engineering Co., Inc.
Winthrop Street / Granite Street / Heywood Street
Existing 2010 Peak Hour Turning Movement Count
Worcester, MA - Winthrop Street / Granite Street / Heywood Street
Turning Movements for One hour Starting with 7:00 AM
Counts conducted by Accurate Counts - Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Weather: Clear
N
HEYWOOD STREET
558
552
7:00-8:00
AM
338
214
394
62
456
351
WINTHROP STREET
276
1185
13
Total Hour
Volume=
164
807
177
K=
0.09
GRANITE STREET
Turning Movements for One hour Starting with 1:00 PM
Counts conducted by Accurate Counts - Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Weather: Clear
N
HEYWOOD STREET
493
522
1:00-2:00
MD
367
155
345
79
424
384
WINTHROP STREET
234
1111
17
Total Hour
Volume=
148
808
165
K=
0.09
GRANITE STREET
Turning Movements for One hour Starting with 4:30-5:30 PM
Counts conducted by Accurate Counts - Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Weather: Clear
N
HEYWOOD STREET
538
712
4:30-5:30
PM
550
162
386
98
484
574
WINTHROP STREET
260
1372
24
Total Hour
Volume=
152
1058
176
K=
0.09
GRANITE STREET
TurnCountForm.xls
20800072Winthrop/25%/
Rpt_Anal
Figure 4
Compiled By: Cullinan Engineering Co., Inc.
Winthrop Street / Vernon Street
Future 2020 Peak Hour Turning Movement Count
Worcester, MA - Winthrop Street @ Vernon Street
Turning Movements for One hour Starting with 7:15 AM
Counts conducted by Accurate Counts - Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Weather: Clear
N
WINTHROP STREET
885
626
7:15-8:15
AM
457
169
677
19
696
481
VERNON STREET
188
1554
24
Total Hour
Volume=
208
1177
232
K=
0.09
VERNON STREET
Turning Movements for One hour Starting with 1:00 PM
Counts conducted by Accurate Counts - Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Weather: Clear
N
WINTHROP STREET
625
673
1:00-2:00
MD
434
239
505
31
536
456
VERNON STREET
270
1351
22
Total Hour
Volume=
120
992
142
K=
0.09
VERNON STREET
Turning Movements for One hour Starting with 4:30 PM
Counts conducted by Accurate Counts - Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Weather: Clear
N
WINTHROP STREET
836
870
4:30-5:30
PM
584
286
645
37
682
611
VERNON STREET
323
1770
27
Total Hour
Volume=
191
1293
218
K=
0.09
VERNON STREET
TurnCountForm.xls
20800072/Winthrop/25%/
Rpt-Anal
Figure 5
Compiled By: Cullinan Engineering Co., Inc.
Winthrop Street / Providence Street
Future 2020 Peak Hour Turning Movement Count
Worcester, MA - Winthrop Street @ Providence Street
Turning Movements for One hour Starting with 7:15 AM
Counts conducted by Accurate Counts - Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Weather: Clear
PROVIDENCE STREET
114
N
182
69
365
308
WINTHROP STREET
752
462
7:15-8:15
AM
30
392
40
52
512
58
622
606
WINTHROP STREET
100
280
1946
226
Total Hour
Volume=
171
1228
497
K=
0.09
PROVIDENCE STREET
Turning Movements for One hour Starting with 12:30 PM
Counts conducted by Accurate Counts - Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Weather: Clear
PROVIDENCE STREET
109
264
48
421
N
232
WINTHROP STREET
490
425
12:30-1:30
MD
22
360
43
38
360
104
502
543
WINTHROP STREET
74
411
1676
172
Total Hour
Volume=
82
1045
328
K=
0.09
PROVIDENCE STREET
Turning Movements for One hour Starting with 4:30 PM
Counts conducted by Accurate Counts - Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Weather: Clear
PROVIDENCE STREET
132
342
83
557
N
235
WINTHROP STREET
640
641
4:30-5:30
PM
13
571
57
36
447
82
565
802
WINTHROP STREET
2158
99
186
481
110
1367
Total Hour
Volume=
395
K=
0.09
PROVIDENCE STREET
TurnCountForm.xls
20800072/Winthrop/25%/
Rpt_Anal
Figure 6
Compiled By: Cullinan Engineering Co., Inc.
Winthrop Street / Granite Street / Heywood Street
Future 2020 Peak Hour Turning Movement Count
Worcester, MA - Winthrop Street / Granite Street / Heywood Street
Turning Movements for One hour Starting with 7:00 AM
Counts conducted by Accurate Counts - Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Weather: Clear
N
HEYWOOD STREET
619
613
7:00-8:00
AM
375
238
437
69
506
389
WINTHROP STREET
307
1315
14
Total Hour
Volume=
182
895
196
K=
0.09
GRANITE STREET
Turning Movements for One hour Starting with 1:00 PM
Counts conducted by Accurate Counts - Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Weather: Clear
N
HEYWOOD STREET
563
653
1:00-2:00
MD
462
191
405
94
499
485
WINTHROP STREET
285
1333
23
Total Hour
Volume=
158
984
181
K=
0.09
GRANITE STREET
Turning Movements for One hour Starting with 4:30-5:30 PM
Counts conducted by Accurate Counts - Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Weather: Clear
N
HEYWOOD STREET
597
791
4:30-5:30
PM
611
180
428
109
537
638
WINTHROP STREET
289
1524
27
Total Hour
Volume=
169
1175
196
K=
0.09
GRANITE STREET
TurnCountForm.xls
20800072Winthrop/25%/
Rpt_Anal
Figure 7
Compiled By: Cullinan Engineering Co., Inc.
2010 EXISTING SIGNAL TIMINGS
Winthrop Street at Providence Street
Functional Design Technical Appendix
Road Safety Audit—Vernon Street, Winthrop Street, Providence Street—Worcester, MA
Prepared by BETA Group, Inc.
Appendix E. Design Plans