Bridge Drainage Systems and Discharge to Waterways

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Date Created
2023-06
Report Number
TRS 2304
Description
The MnDOT Bridge Office sought out information on best practices regarding the use of drainage systems on bridges. Minnesota regulations strongly discourage the discharge of runoff directly into waterways; however, bridge drainage systems can lead to accelerated deterioration in bridge elements. MnDOT requested a synthesis to gather information to assist them in future development of guidance on design, detailing, specifications, construction, and maintenance procedures for bridge needs, focusing specifically on agencies with similar northern climates to the greatest extent possible.

Guidelines for Using Intelligent Warning Devices

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Date Created
2023-01
Report Number
2023RIC02
Description
The purpose of this reference guide is to provide local agency staff a resource on four intelligent warning devices (active warning signs) that includes a general explanation on the use of the sign and their effectiveness, recommended installation protocols, alternative countermeasures to consider and maintenance considerations. With this guide, agency staff can identify whether implementation is warranted and further provide sourced responses to citizen’s requests for them. The four intelligent warning devices covered in this reference guide includes: • LED Enabled Signs, • Radar Speed Feedback Signs, • Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons, and • Dynamic “No Turn on Red” Signs. Nevertheless, the information provided must be used with engineering judgement. Due to the differences between urban vs. rural environments, city vs. county agencies and staff availability, there is no one size fits all approach. This document provides general guidance that should be modified to meet each agency’s needs.

Mitigating Seasonal Movement at Culverts and Utilities

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Date Created
2021-02
Report Number
2021RIC01
Description
Over the past years, the Local Road Research Board (LRRB) has developed several resources to address and mitigate issues associated with seasonal movement (heaving and depressions). The focus of this document is to specifically address seasonal movements at culverts and utilities. This document synthesizes several of the earlier resources.

Remote Sensing in Maintenance Work

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Date Created
2020
Report Number
TRS2005
Description
SRF Consulting Group worked with MnDOT in identifying specific uses for the remote sensing tools; a list of potential tools was generated; MnDOT reviewed and then developed a short list of five tools which SRF then investigated. This Transportation Research Synthesis presents the findings including information on tool applications and details for MnDOT's specific application including pros and cons of each.