Abstract
Since Kentucky’s initial rumble strip designs were adopted, there has been additional research and experimentation in other states with alternative designs as a response to complaints from the public about noise pollution caused by rumble strips. The new research indicates that other rumble strip designs might provide increased interior noise/vibration with decreased exterior noise. Application of these alternative designs in Kentucky could result in improved rumble performance, reduced damage to new pavement, decreased noise pollution, installation on roadways with lower speed limits, and allow reinstallation of rumbles on thin overlays/microsurfacing.
The research team reviewed national and state guidelines for conventional and alternative rumble strip designs and compiled a synthesis of current rumble strip practices. A series of site visits to rumble strip installations across the state revealed many findings about Kentucky’s current rumble strip practices.
This research provides recommendations for conventional, sinusoidal, and shallow rumble strips as well as for rumble strip maintenance, rumble strips on thin overlays, and the use of edgeline and centerline rumble strips.
Report Date
6-2020
Report Number
KTC-20-28/SPR20-595-1F
Digital Object Identifier
https://doi.org/10.13023/ktc.rr.2020.28
Repository Citation
Staats, William Nicholas; Agent, Kenneth R.; and Howell, Brian K., "Evaluation of Alternative Rumble Strip Designs" (2020). Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report. 1706.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/ktc_researchreports/1706
Notes
© 2020 University of Kentucky, Kentucky Transportation Center
Information may not be used, reproduced, or republished without KTC’s written consent.
The contents of this report reflect the views of the authors, who are responsible for the facts and accuracy of the data presented herein. The contents do not necessarily reflect the official views or policies of the University of Kentucky, the Kentucky Transportation Center, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, the United States Department of Transportation, or the Federal Highway Administration. This report does not constitute a standard, specification, or regulation. The inclusion of manufacturer names or trade names is for identification purposes and should not be considered an endorsement.