 Rumble Strips Saves Lives, Time and Money for Maine
A new study led by civil engineers at the University of Maine provides the most relevant data yet for the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of centerline rumble strips on Maine’s sprawling network of rural roads, many of which remain without these life-saving grooves.
In a before-and-after analysis, the researchers found that installing centerline rumble strips on rural two-lane roads reduced head-on and opposite sideswipe collisions by anywhere from 28 to 48 percent. By limiting these dangerous crashes, the state saves not only lives but money, according to the authors, who estimated that “the benefits of the rumble strip installations are at least 14 times the cost.”
“They’re one of our most cost-effective safety countermeasures that we can deploy out there and also one of the most effective,” said Bob Skehan, the director of MaineDOT’s Office of Safety and Mobility.
Initially, the agency targeted corridors with a speed limit of at least 45 miles per hour and a traffic volume of more than 8,000 vehicles per day to add rumble strips. The pilot produced excellent results: the new rumble strips on these roads cut head-on crashes in half and eliminated fatal collisions entirely during an initial period, Skehan recalled.
That level of effectiveness wouldn’t quite hold up over the long term. And as MaineDOT installed more rumble strips in areas where head-on crashes were common, there were still some deadly collisions even after the safety measure was implemented.
But time after time, the little grooves significantly reduced crashes and fatalities.
“It’s still, by far, our biggest lifesaver with regards to two-lane, rural, head-on collisions,” Skehan said.
MaineDOT aims to add about 100 miles of rumble strips to state roads every year, according to Skehan. The agency prioritizes areas with high traffic and fresh pavement to maximize the service life of the grooves, allocating about $750,000 for these projects annually.
 Maine Potato Blossom Festival
July 18-20
Mark your calendar for the Maine Potato Blossom Festival, an annual celebration of our agricultural heritage and the service of our veterans to the country. For over 70 years, the festival has been the highlight of summer in Aroostook County, and you are invited to come and experience the fun and excitement of the week-long festival.
Throughout the festival, they offer a wide range of activities for all ages, including live music, delicious food, exciting games and contests, and a spectacular parade that is one of the largest in Maine. From the crowning of Maine Potato Blossom Queen to the traditional potato picking contests, there is something for everyone at the festival!
Of course, the Maine Potato Blossom Festival is more than just a fun summer event. It is a celebration of the proud agricultural traditions that have helped to shape our communities and a chance to honor the men and women who have served our country.
Don’t miss out on the fun, food, and festivities that make the Maine Potato Blossom Festival the premier summer event in Aroostook County!
 60th Anniversary of the Yarmouth Clam Festival
July 18-20
What began in 1965 as a local clambake has grown into Maine’s largest free-admission festival, drawing more than 100,000 visitors each year. Behind the scenes, hundreds of volunteers work together to create a weekend full of food, entertainment, and meaningful community impact.
In 2024, the festival took important steps to be more inclusive and family-friendly with increased handicapped parking and a revamped shuttle service and expanded the family area with interactive, low-cost activities.
For 2025, the festival is building on that progress with more inclusive programming, new entertainment, and a stronger commitment to sustainability and waste reduction.
Join the fun in honoring six decades of tradition, connection, and community pride. Whether you’re a long-time supporter or new to the festival, this is a special opportunity to celebrate Yarmouth’s history and support local nonprofits and youth programming.
For the schedule of events, please visit: https://www.clamfestival.com/schedule/
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