Median Barriers

RDG Chapter 6

Warrants for Median Barriers

• Prevent cross-over crashes

• Median width and traffic volumes are variables

Figure 6.1

Median Width (Feet)

*Avera

ge D

aily T

raffi

c

(Th

ou

san

ds)

Figure 6.1

*Based on a 5-Year Projection

Other Warrant Considerations for Median

Barriers

• Median Cross Slope

• Roadway Curvature

• Vehicle Speed and Traffic Mix

Median Cross Slope

Roadway Curvature

Vehicle Speed and Traffic Mix

Median Barrier Systems

• 3 or 4-Strand Cable• W-Beam (weak post)• Box-Beam• W-Beam (strong post)• Thrie Beam• Modified Thrie Beam• Concrete Safety Shape

Rude Awakening

New Vs. Old Design

NJ Concrete Barrier

42 inch safety shape

Constant slope barriers

Ultimate wall

Median Barrier Location

• Along Centerline

• Adjacent to Higher Roadway

• Paired Roadside Barriers

End Treatments for Median Barriers

• Flared

• Tapered

• Anchored In Backslope

• Shielded With Crash Cushion