I-95 Express Lanes Miami, FL

About this project

FDOT District Six is implementing operational improvement projects along the I-95 Express to increase safety, maintain free-flow conditions in the Express Lanes, and ensure trip reliability. Versilis was selected by FDOT to provide automated access control solutions at three I-95 Express entrance points.

The SwiftGate product was specifically selected for its crashworthiness and increased visibility. These features were considered essential for motorist safety and compliance. As part of the process, an entire SwiftGate system was evaluated by FDOT’s Traffic Engineering Research Laboratory (TERL) in Tallahassee. Upon gaining approval from FDOT’s TERL, the SwiftGate was introduced on the FDOT Innovative Product List (IPL) Index.

The implemented SwiftGate systems allow road rangers and asset management staff to perform automated lane closures during incidents and planned closures along the corridor. Each entrance point system includes numerous advance warning signs (SwiftSign, flashing beacon, blank out sign) and automated gates, which can be controlled locally using a handheld remote control, and remotely from the district Traffic Management Center.

Challenges

Initial challenge: when VMS indicate that the express lanes are closed, motorists keep entering in the express lanes
The high level of violation causes a backup in the express lanes during peak period, a situation that is difficult to recover from
Incident Management Responders safety tending to incidents is a concern

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Solution

As part of this project, automated advance warning signs and highly visible crash tested gates have been installed at three entrance points of I-95 Express. The warning gates prevent drivers from entering the express lanes during traffic incidents and planned maintenance. All devices are activated from the Sunguide District 6 Traffic Management Center. Operators also have the capability of controlling the devices locally for maintenance purposes. The system aims to increase safety for incident responders and express lane users, while facilitating the quick clearance of incidents.