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County receives funding for
county-wide guardrail upgrades
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 [July 14, 2018]
The Logan County Highway Department has
been awarded up to $1,000,000 from IDOT’s Highway Safety Improvement
Program. The funding will be used to replace guardrail and terminals
along various County Highways in Logan County. Construction will be
planned for 2020.
Safety standards for guardrail has changed over the years. Most of
the bridges on Logan County Highways were built before current
safety standards were in place. 68% of the existing rail sections
and terminals are either substandard or damaged. This funding will
help us to replace up to 7,800 feet of guardrail and 146 terminals.
The Highway Safety Improvement Program provides funding to address
roadside safety issues without complete reconstruction. These funds
are made available to local highway agencies through a competitive
application process. Approximately $15 Million was made available
statewide through this IDOT program.
The Logan County Highway Department has been steadily focused on
low-cost safety improvements over the years. Road signs have been
upgraded for night-time reflectivity, and they are routinely
inspected for damage.
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Rural reference signs at intersections are being replaced with larger signs that
are easier to read. Roadway shoulders are maintained to reduce drop-offs
at the edge of the pavement. To improve visibility on rural roads, delineator
reflectors have been placed along curves and guardrail areas. These improvements
to our County Highway system have been done through routine maintenance at a
minimal cost. And yet, this minor investment can be lifesaving.
For these guardrail improvements, IDOT will provide funding for 90% of the total
project cost. Logan County will provide the 10% local match. Local property tax
funds are limited. By applying for state and federal programs, we are able to
leverage our local funds. We can make significant improvements to the level of
safety on our roadways for a fraction of the overall cost.
[Bret A. Aukamp
Logan County Engineer] |
