Omaha, Nebraska – The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) is taking measures to enhance safety on state highways.
Technical teams are deploying a high-friction surface treatment on sections of Interstate 80, designed to augment traction between vehicles and the roadway.
“This specialized treatment consists of an epoxy, akin to commercial products, onto which we affix a particular aggregate,” informed district construction engineer Barbara Gerbino-Bevins.
This procedure is intended to mitigate the risk of vehicles skidding, particularly on damp surfaces. Once applied, the road surface manifests a slightly darker hue, and vehicular tires may produce a distinctive sound.
The ongoing initiative targets the curve where I-80 transitions from a northern to an eastern direction at the I-680 junction.
Gerbino-Bevins remarked, “This curve is known for its accident rates. To qualify for the treatment, the site must fulfill specific accident-related criteria, which it does.”
Two other key areas — the stretch from I-680 south to I-80 east and a segment of Highway 275 near Waterloo that extends over the viaduct — already benefit from this friction treatment.
NDOT has received positive feedback regarding these enhancements. “With the treatment, accident rates on damp roads can potentially reduce by up to 83%,” added Gerbino-Bevins.
Funding for the current project exceeds $700,000, covering an expanse of over 15,000 square yards. Officials concur that the investment is justified if it substantially reduces accidents and maintains smooth traffic flow.
As the project progresses, traffic diversions will be in effect. The majority of the work will be executed during nighttime hours, between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. NDOT anticipates project completion by the forthcoming fall season.
