Reducing speed limits to increase public safety is a controversial issue that has been debated by safety advocates, engineers, politicians, transportation officials, and the public for years. A recent statutory change put a spotlight on the topic, requiring a deeper look at how speed limits are established and the effectiveness that lowering speed limits has on reducing vehicle speeds, as well as the impacts on pedestrian and bicycle traffic. This guide examines the history of speed limits, the recent statutory change and consequences to communities. It also examines the effectiveness of speed limit changes, outlines a process to follow when deciding to make a change, and offers alternative strategies for pedestrian and bicycle safety.

This interactive tool serves as a guide to assist agencies in understanding drainage problems and options to consider for mitigating structural damage to pavements due to moisture. It includes information on design, construction, maintenance, typical sections and specifications, resources and more. Weather and soil conditions vary drastically across Minnesota, engineers should use their judgment and seek expert guidance when necessary.

Construction projects are increasing in complexity, size, cost, and constraints, and that can lead to missing deadlines. This resource offers guidance on contract language and pro­cesses that when used will improve the likelihood of delivering a construction project on time. It includes a review of current industry standards regarding contracts such as time determination, type, and contract disputes and claims. It also offers a look at contract language that produces successful completion and ways to mitigate potential project delays during the construction and design phase of a project. 

Fatal crash rates are two times higher in rural areas than in urban areas. A substantial portion of rural crashes happen at intersections due to high speeds and drivers failing to stop. Transverse rumble strips, which run across a traffic lane, are a low-cost and easily deployable safety countermeasure for intersection approaches. While some studies have shown transverse rumble strips are effective at slowing speeds and encouraging stopping, there is little consistency in placement or design. This research evaluated which transverse rumble strip designs are most effective in changing driver behaviors.

Polymer-modified binders (PMB) have been shown to improve the mechanical properties of asphalt mixtures compared to unmodified binders. Considering the higher initial cost of PMB, selecting the best alternative is important. This research investigated the use of PMB binders (grade C) and unmodified binders (grade B) for low-volume roads in Minnesota. The field performance of modified and unmodified mixtures was compared, and the low-temperature cracking properties of both binder types and mixtures was analyzed. A life-cycle cost analysis was also performed. The research confirmed the benefits of PMB. Extra costs are likely justified, even on lower traffic roads, due to the longer life cycle of a road paved with these binders.

Transit systems in cities and suburban areas don’t always meet the transportation needs of rural communities. Dispersed populations and destinations make it difficult for public agencies to provide sufficient transit services, and private providers may not have the demand to justify their operation in rural areas. An alternative shared mobility services approach may better meet rural transit needs while strengthening communities and local economies. Researchers identified the needs and issues with transit in Wabasha, Minn. They developed a menu of strategies that uses existing community assets to promote walking, biking, car sharing, bus sharing, and car and van pooling.

Do you have an idea for a new tool, design or practice that would improve the way you do your job or make it safer? If budget is a barrier, the Local Operational Research Assistance (OPERA) Program can help. OPERA provides funding of up to $20,000 per project for local agencies in Minnesota.  Counties, cities, and townships, this is your opportunity to encourage your maintenance staff to become actively involved in researching and testing their ideas. Funded by the LRRB and administered by Minnesota LTAP, OPERA is here to help facilitate homegrown, innovative solutions to the everyday challenges transportation workers face on the job. For inspiration, check out Otter Tail County's latest innovation, the Otter Claw! 

The MnDOT Library is your access point to a vast network of transportation information. Check out the new MnDOT Library video to learn about the resources and research services available to Minnesota city and county practitioners, university researchers, consultants, MnDOT staff and the public.  

The LRRB project, 20 Tips to Up Your Agency's Social Media Game, was recognized by communications professionals at the Minnesota Association of Government Communicators (MAGC) Annual Northern Lights Awards in the multipage publication category.  Designed for use by local agencies, the guide offers real-world examples that document social media best practices and lessons learned by public agencies across Minnesota. 

The Local Road Research Board and Research Implementation Committee are at work advancing new research projects that will help improve the quality of Minnesota’s transportation systems. At their recent summer meeting, they conducted final reviews of need statements and selected projects that will be funded for implementation.

LRRB members: Top row (l-r): Matt Leonard, City of Monticello; Brian Giese, Pope County; Paul Oehme, City of Lakeville. Middle row (l-r): Duane Hill, MnDOT; Lon Aune, Marshall County. Bottom row (l-r): Kristine Elwood, MnDOT; Jim Foldesi, St. Louis County; Katie Walker, MnDOT. Not pictured: Wayne Sandberg, Washington County; Kyle Shelton, Center for Transportation Studies.

RIC members: Top row (l-r): Ted Schoenecker, MnDOT; Ryan Thilges, Blue Earth County; Aaron Holmbeck, Nobles County. Second row from top (l-r): Steve Bot, City of St. Michael; Dave Conkel, MnDOT; Third row from top (l-r): Will Manchester, City of Minnetonka; Darrick Anderson, Cass County; Ben Worel, MnDOT; Bottom row (l-r): Stephanie Malinoff, Minnesota LTAP; Fausto Cabral, MnDOT; Hafiz Munir, MnDOT.