Development of Guidelines for Ramp Reversal Projects

Project Description

With mainlane expansion becoming an ever-diminishing possibility due to fiscal and land constraints, many Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) districts have modified freeway elements to maximize efficiency and safety. TxDOT implemented improvements such as new ramps, grade-separated ramps, and frontage road U-turn lanes. This research focused on the use, evaluation, and design of ramp reversals, a replacement of an entrance ramp with an exit ramp or vice versa.

Texas Transportation Institute researchers developed a project evaluation process and framework for determining whether or not a ramp reversal, X-ramp, or braided ramp project is worthwhile. Researchers formulated guidelines and a checklist to further assist TxDOT engineers in planning and implementing successful ramp modification projects. Lessons learned from case study evaluations indicated that operational impacts either were positive or had no measurable impact for all of the 15 sites. Evaluation of safety impacts revealed safety benefits. Basic economic indicators such as sales tax receipts, property values, and business development revealed positive trends for the majority of sites.

Overall, the operational, safety, and basic economic impacts of ramp modification projects are positive in nature. The detailed case study evaluation data and anecdotal information from stakeholders of previously implemented projects support further implementation of both ramp reversal and X-ramp corridor projects by TxDOT.

Project Publications

Ramp Reversal Projects: Guidelines for Successful Implementation 0-5105-1

Development of Guidelines for Ramp Reversal Projects 0-5105-S

For More Information