Abstract:
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has deployed advanced weather systems and products to support maintenance operations and to provide public information. The expanded system has tremendously improved the availability and quality of weather information for WSDOT crews and the traveling public. Use of current and forecast weather information has increased from nearly non-existent to an actively used, Department-wide resource. This summary report overviews the various efforts, products, and reports generated since the beginning of the road weather project.

Authors:
Senn,L.

Keywords:
availability, information systems, maintenance, public, public information, quality, Road Weather Information System, System, systems, transportation, Washington, Washington state, weather prediction, winter road maintenance, WSDOT

Download Report:

External Links: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/research/reports/fullreports/624.1.pdf http://wsdot.wa.gov/Research/Reports/600/624.1.htm

Abstract:
This report documents the development of data collection methodologies that can be used to cost effectively measure truck movements along specific roadway corridors selected by transportation agencies in Washington State. The intent of this study was to design and test methodologies that could be used to measure the performance of freight mobility roadway improvement projects against benchmarks, or selected standards, that would be used both as part of the project selection process and to report on speed and volume improvements that resulted from completed freight mobility projects. One technology tested was Commercial Vehicle Information System and Networks (CVISN) electronic truck transponders, which are mounted on the windshields of approximately 20,000 trucks in Washington. By using software to link the transponder reads from sites anywhere in the state, the transponder-equipped trucks could become a travel-time probe fleet. The second technology tested involved global positioning systems (GPS) placed in volunteer trucks to collect specific truck movement data at 5-second intervals. With GPS data it was possible to understand when and where the monitored trucks experienced congestion and to generate useful performance statistics. The study found that both data collection technologies could be useful; however, the key to both technologies is whether enough instrumented vehicles pass over the roadways for which data are required. This basic condition affects whether the technologies will be effective at collecting the data required for any given benchmark project. The report also recommends the traffic data that should be collected for a benchmark program and the potential costs of using either data collection technology.

Authors:
McCormack,E. D., Hallenbeck,M. E.

Keywords:
agencies, commercial vehicle, condition, congestion, construction, corridors, cost, costs, data, data collection, design, development, freight, freight mobility, freight movement reliability, global positioning, global positioning systems, GPS, improvement, methodology, mobility, networks, performance, positioning, probe program, project, research, roadway, software, speed, statistics, Study, System, systems, technology, traffic, traffic data, transportation, travel time, truck, truck monitoring, trucks, volume, Washington, Washington state

Download Report:

External Links: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/research/reports/fullreports/607.1.pdf http://wsdot.wa.gov/Research/Reports/600/607.1.htm

Abstract:
Increasing traffic volumes and a deteriorating transportation infrastructure have stimulated the development of new systems and methods to accelerate the construction of highway bridges. Precast concrete bridge components offer a potential alternative to conventional reinforced, cast-in-place concrete components. The use of precast components has the potential to minimize traffic disruptions, improve work zone safety, reduce environmental impacts, improve constructability, increase quality, and lower life-cycle costs. This study compared two precast concrete bridge pier systems for rapid construction of bridges in seismic regions. One was a reinforced concrete system, in which mild steel deformed bars connect the precast concrete components and provide the flexural strength of the columns. The other was a hybrid system, which uses a combination of unbonded post-tensioning and mild steel deformed bars to make the connections. A parametric study of the two types of systems was conducted using nonlinear finite element models to investigate the global response and likelihood of damage for various frame configurations. On the basis of this study, a practical method was developed to estimate maximum seismic displacements from the cracked section properties of the columns, the elastic design displacement response spectrum, and the base-shear strength ratio. The results of the global nonlinear finite element analyses suggest that the systems have the potential for good seismic performance. Further analytical and experimental research is needed to investigate the constructability and seismic performance of the connection details.

Authors:
Hieber,D. G., Wacker,J. M., Eberhard,M. O., Stanton,J. F.

Keywords:
Alternative, bridge, bridges, columns, concrete, concrete bridge, connections, constructability, construction, cost, costs, damage, design, developed, development, environmental, environmental impact experimental, finite element, highway, impact, impacts, infrastructure, methods, models, performance piers, precast, precast concrete, prestressed concete, quality, Rapid construction, Regions, reinforce concrete, research, response spectra, response spectrum, safety, seismic, seismic performance, steel strength, Study, substructures, System, systems, traffic, traffic volumes, trasportation, volume

Download Report:

External Links: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/research/reports/fullreports/611.1.pdf http://wsdot.wa.gov/Research/Reports/600/611.1.htm

Abstract:
TrafficTV is a traffic and traveler information resource available on cable television (UWTV2 Channel 76). It began operation June 1, 1998, as part of the SmartTrek Operational Deployment under the name Traffic Channel. The SmartTrek evaluation of May 2001 identified several problems with Traffic Channel and recommended some improvements. This project made those changes and renamed the application TrafficTV. A series of meetings was held in June 2003. These meetings involved personnel from the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) Northwest Region, WSDOT Advanced Technology Branch, WSDOT Olympia office, the University of Washington's UWTV, and the UW Intelligent Transportation Systems Research Program. From these meetings came a set of recommended changes. These changes were made to TrafficTV and are documented in this report. Battelle Institute conducted a focus group in May 2004 to evaluate the resulting program. This focus group concluded that TrafficTV is a useful traveler information tool but has not had sufficient public exposure to make it widely known to the traveling public. A market penetration audit conducted by Media Audit in June and July 2004 indicated that when viewers were asked about TrafficTV, over 94,000 had seen the program within the last week. This was deemed surprisingly high, given the lack of external exposure and that viewers would have found TrafficTV only by word of mouth or by "channel surfing." Again, a conclusion of the audit was that additional exposure would make TrafficTV more valuable as a traveler information tool. As a result of the publicity recommendations, a banner has been added to the North West Region's traveler information page to alert users to the availability of TrafficTV.

Authors:
Dailey,D. J., Bradbury,J.

Keywords:
traveler information, cable TV, Intelligent transportation system, congestion information, traffic, evaluation, Washington, Washington state, transportation, WSDOT, intelligent transportation systems, systems, research, program, group, public

Download Report:

External Links: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/research/reports/fullreports/603.1.pdf http://wsdot.wa.gov/Research/Reports/600/603.1.htm

Abstract:
The Falling weight deflectometer test (FWD) is a commonly used method for the evaluation of the structural performance of pavement systems. In the FWD test, a large weight is raised off the ground and dropped onto a rubber loading pad creating an impulse load representative of the real loading imposed by heavy traffic on the pavement. The excitation produced by the loading sets off waves in the pavement and underlying soil. Deflection time histories are gathered by an array of sensors placed at several nearby locations. The traditional method for interpreting the FWD data to backcalculate structural pavement properties, involves extracting the peak deflection from each displacement trace of the sensors (deflection basin) and matching it through an iterative optimization method to the deflections predicted by a static model of the pavement. This approach is computationally efficient; and when the depths of the layers are known, and their properties are largely homogeneous with depth, the procedure is effective in backcalculating layer properties. However, when the depths are uncertain or when the moduli vary within a layer, the static backcalculation scheme may not yield reliable results.The goal of this study is to investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of using the complete time history of the FWD test to overcome some of the limitations of the static backcalculation procedure, and recover pavement layer moduli distribution and thickness. The problem is also formulated as a numerical minimization problem, where the unknowns are the resilient moduli of thin "computational layers" that discretize the profile. Our initial finding is that this optimization formulation regularized by constraints on the magnitude and spatial gradient of the moduli, coupled with a continuation scheme for imposing the regularization terms, can overcome the ill-posedness nature or the original optimization problem. The computational effort for solving this inverse problem, however, is very significant as it requires repeated calls to the expensive forward problem: an elastodynamic simulation in stiff heterogeneous media. Additional work is needed to speed up the forward problem to be able to perform a more comprehensive evaluation with field data.

Authors:
Turkiyyah,G. M.

Keywords:
research, falling weight deflectometer, weight, evaluation, performance, pavement, systems, traffic, data, moduli, profile, speed

Download Report:

External Links: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/research/reports/fullreports/586.1.pdf http://wsdot.wa.gov/Research/Reports/500/586.1.htm

Abstract:
This report documents the development of data collection methodologies that can be used to cost effectively measure truck movements along specific roadway corridors selected by the Freight Mobility Strategic Investment Board (FMSIB.) The intent of this study was to design and test methodologies that could be used to measure the performance of freight mobility roadway improvement projects against benchmarks, or selected standards, which would be used both as part of the project selection process and to report on speed and volume improvements that resulted from completed FMSIB projects. One technology tested was Commercial Vehicle Information System and Networks (CVISN) electronic truck transponders, which are mounted on the windshields of approximately 20,000 trucks traveling in Washington. These transponders are used at weigh stations across the state to improve the efficiency of truck regulatory compliance checks. By using software to link the transponder reads from sites anywhere in the state, the transponder-equipped trucks could become a travel time probe fleet. The second technology tested involved global positioning systems (GPS) placed in volunteer trucks recruited for this project to collect specific truck movement data at 5-second intervals. With GPS data it was possible to understand when and where the monitored trucks experienced congestion. By aggregating this information over time, it was possible to generate performance statistics related to the reliability of truck trips, and even examine changes in route choice for trips between high volume origin/destination pairs. The study found that both data collection technologies could be useful; however, the key to both technologies is whether enough instrumented vehicles pass over the roadways for which data are required. This basic condition significantly affects whether the transponder and GPS technologies will be effective at collecting the data required for any given FMSIB benchmark project . The report also recommends the traffic data that should be collected for a benchmark program and the potential costs of using either data collection technology.

Authors:
McCormack,E. D., Hallenbeck,M. E.

Keywords:
freight movement reliability, truck monitoring, development, data, data collection, methodology, cost, truck, roadway, corridors, freight, freight mobility, mobility, design, performance, speed, volume, commercial vehicle, networks, trucks, Washington, software, travel time, probe, global positioning, global positioning systems, positioning, systems, GPS, congestion, statistics, reliability, condition, traffic, traffic data, program, costs

Download Report:

Abstract:
The goal of advanced traveler information systems (ATIS) is to provide travelers with information that will facilitate their decisions concerning route choice, departure time, trip delay or elimination, and mode of transportation. The benefits of ATIS projects can be evaluated through field studies, simulation software, and surveys. An evaluation method called the ITS Deployment Analysis System (IDAS) is suggested for use by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT). IDAS is a "sketch" planning tool intended for screening and prioritizing all intelligent transportation systems (ITS) projects (not just ATIS projects). The software evaluates a number of benefits. These are determined by changes attributable to the deployment of ITS in vehicle miles traveled (VMT), vehicle hours traveled (VHT), volume-capacity (v/c) ratios, and vehicle speeds throughout a given network. The IDAS evaluation depends on a number of assumptions that affect the calculations of costs and benefits. The IDAS developers recommend that these assumptions be inspected by local agencies and adjusted to better represent local conditions. The assumptions about the impacts on VMT, VHT, v/c ratios, and vehicle speed are particularly important. Consequently, suggestions are made within this report for adjustments that WSDOT should make to these default values. These values will allow the WSDOT to successfully employ IDAS for ATIS evaluation.

Authors:
Kristof,T., Lowry,M., Rutherford,G. S.

Keywords:
advanced traveler information systems, agencies, analysis, Assessing, ATIS, ATIS benefits, ATIS evaluation, benefit, benefits, condition, cost, costs, Deployment, evaluation, IDAS, impact, impacts, information systems, Intelligent transportation system, intelligent transportation systems, ITS, ITS Deployment Analysis System, planning, prioritizing, project, research, software, speed, Study, survey, Surveys, System, systems, transportation, traveler information, Washington, Washington state, WSDOT

Download Report:

External Links: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/research/reports/fullreports/597.1.pdf http://wsdot.wa.gov/Research/Reports/500/597.1.htm

Abstract:
This research study was conducted to evaluate the in-service performance of existing guardrail end treatments and unrestrained pre-cast concrete barrier in Washington State. For a selected area of the state highway system over a one-year period, local area maintenance personnel were tasked to document incidents, including extent of damage and repair costs, into a database using NCHRP Project 22-13 methodology. Additional information (accident severity, e.g.) from police reports was gathered from the incidents and added to the database. The installation characteristics measured for Breakaway Cable Terminals (BCT) and Slotted Rail Terminals (SRT), along with the related crash data for these devices, showed overall acceptable performance when struck. Review of the incident severities, together with the displacement and damage data on struck barriers in the study area, revealed no significant difference in BCT and SRT performance. The installation, damage, and displacement characteristics examined on struck concrete barrier showed that the pin and loop connections were holding well in incidents, and the barrier displacements during incidents were within the WSDOT design specification for such systems.

Authors:
Igharo,P. O., Murphy,J., Glad,R. W.

Keywords:
performance, guardrail, Washington, Washington state, guardrail end treaments, breakaway cable terminal (BCT), roadside safety, slotted rail terminal (SRT), research, end treatment, precast concrete, concrete, concrete barrier, highway, maintenance, incident, damage, repair, costs, cost, database, methodology, accident severity, data, barriers, WSDOT, design, specification, systems

Download Report:

External Links: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/research/reports/fullreports/580.1.pdf http://wsdot.wa.gov/Research/Reports/500/580.1.htm

Abstract:
More extensive use of precast concrete components, which are fabricated off-site and then connected on-site, could allow bridges to be constructed more rapidly. The increased use of precast components in bridges also promises to increase work-zone safety and reduce environmental impacts for bridges that span waterways. This report discusses precast concrete systems that have been used for rapid bridge construction outside of Washington State and evaluates whether they are suitable for use within Western Washington. The report also identifies key features that are important for successful precast concrete system applications. Information on previously used systems was gathered through an extensive review of published literature. Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) design and construction engineers, precast concrete producers, and bridge contractors were also consulted to obtain their input on the positive and negative aspects of applied systems. Most applications have been used in areas of low seismic potential. By contrast, Western Washington is subject to strong earthquakes. Because precast systems contain connections, and connections are typically vulnerable to seismic loading, a qualitative evaluation of the expected seismic performance of each system was deemed necessary. The researchers identified four types of precast concrete superstructure systems: full-depth precast concrete panels, partial-depth precast concrete panels, prestressed concrete multibeam superstructures, and preconstructed composite units. The four systems appear to have acceptable seismic behavior, but there are concerns associated with constructability and durability. Precast concrete substructure systems have received much less attention than have superstructure systems. The use of precast substructure components can provide significant time savings by eliminating the time needed to erect formwork, fix steel, and cure concrete in the substructure. The success of the system depends strongly on the connections, which must hae good seismic resistance, have tolerances that allow easy assembly, and be suitable for rapid construction.

Authors:
Hieber,D. G., Wacker,J. M., Eberhard,M. O., Stanton,J. F.

Keywords:
bridge, bridges, concrete, construction, multibeam superstructures, precast concrete, precast substructures, prestressed concrete, Rapid construction, state-of-the-art, systems, safety, environmental, environmental impact, impacts, span, Washington, Washington state, applications, transportation, WSDOT, design, seismic, earthquake, seismic loading, evaluation, performance, superstructure, prestressed, seismic behavior, constructability, durability, steel, resistance

Download Report:

External Links: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/research/reports/fullreports/594.1.pdf http://wsdot.wa.gov/Research/Reports/500/594.1.htm

Abstract:
This research project was an effort to improve our understanding of the internal stress-strain distribution in GRS retaining structures. Our numerical modelling techniques utilized a commercially available element program, FLAC (Fast Lagrangian Analysis of Continua). In this research, we investigated and appropriately considered the plane strain soil properties, the effect of low confining pressure on the soil dilation angle, and in-soil and low strain rate geosynthetic reinforcement properties.Modeling techniques that are able to predict both the internal and external performance of GRS walls simultaneously were developed. Instrumentation measurements such as wall deflection and reinforcement strain distributions of a number of selected case histories were successfully reproduced by our numerical modeling techniques. Moreover, these techniques were verified by successfully performing true "Class A" predictions of three large-scale experimental walls.An extensive parametric study that included more than 250 numerical models was then performed to investigate the influence of design factors such as soil properties, reinforcement stiffness, and reinforcement spacing on GRS wall performance. Moreover, effects of design options such as toe restraint and structural facing systems were examined. An alternative method for internal stress-strain analysis based on the stress-strain behavior of GRS as a composite material was also developed. Finally, the modeling results were used to develop a new technique for predicting GRS wall face deformations and to make recommendations for the internal stability design of GRS walls.

Authors:
Holtz,R. D., Lee,W. F.

Keywords:
analysis, behavior, design, experimental, FLAC, geosynthetic, geotechnical, materials, modeling, models, performance, prediction, pressure, program, reinforcement, research, retaining wall, retaining walls, stability, structures, systems, walls

Download Report:

External Links: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/research/reports/fullreports/532.1.pdf http://wsdot.wa.gov/Research/Reports/500/532.1.htm

Abstract:
The SWIFT (Seattle Wide-area for Travelers) project was a field operational test of a wide area ITS communications system using a flexible FM sub-carrier High Speed Data System (HSDS). The test was conducted in a partnership with WSDOT, King County Metro Transit, Delco Electronics, Inc., IBM, Seiko Communications Systems, Metro Traffic Control and the Federal Highway Administration. Three devices were used, by the public, to receive the traveler a Delco car radio (capable of providing vector navigation in addition to personal paging and the messages); a Seiko wrist watch pager; and a portable computer (capable of providing graphic displays of traffic advisories and bus positions). After the 15-month test, interviews with the 600 Seattle commuters/participants were conducted to assess user acceptance. A communications study evaluated the adequacy of the HSDS system to disseminate traveler information. Architecture study assessed the effectiveness of the various components to carry out SWIFT operations. institutional issues study documented the history of the project and assessed the institutional issues confronted. A deployment cost study investigated the cost of deployment of a SWIFT system and assessment of potential profitability. The first five reports in this series detail individual aspects of the project.

Authors:
Wetherby,B., Perez,W.

Keywords:
Acceptance, Assessment, bus, computer, control, cost, counties, data, Deployment, effectiveness, evaluation, highway, Institutional, interviews, Issues, ITS, Miscellaneous Library, paging, portable computer, project, public, seattle, speed, Study, SWIFT, System, systems, traffic, traffic advisories, traffic control, transit, traveler information, WSDOT

Download Report:

Abstract:
The Seattle Wide-area Information for Travelers (SWIFT) Operational Test was intended to evaluate the performance of a large-scale, urban Advanced Traveler Information System (ATIS) deployment in the Seattle area. With the majority the SWIFT system completed by June 30,1996, the SWIFT Field Operational Test (FOT) evaluation was conducted from July 1, 1996 through September 20, 1997. The unique features of the SWIFT ATIS included the provision of information for multiple transportation modes, the delivery of this information using three different devices and the use of FM sideband as the primary communications medium. A total of 690 system users were recruited during the course of the study, including 520 Seiko Message watch users, 90 users of the Delco in-vehicle-navigation device and 80 users of the SWIFT portable computers.Purpose of Test. The SWIFT Consumer Acceptance Study was one of five component studies to the overall system evaluation. This report details the findings for the SWIFT Consumer Acceptance Study based on the evaluation objectives that were identified in the SWIFT Evaluation Plan (1 995). The primary objectives of the SWIFT Consumer Acceptance Study were to assess the following:Importance of traveler information in travel planningUsefulness of SWIFT traveler information in travel planningMinimum set of user services and device features required to provide viable productand servicesUser perceptions of SWIFT device usefulnessWillingness-to-pay for different services.User perceptions of changes in travel convenience and efficiencyUser perceptions of changes in traffic congestion, air quality, energy consumption,and safety.Additional SWIFT Consumer Acceptance Study objectives, conducted in support of the SWIFTArchitecture Study, were to assess the following:SWIFT system reliability from a user perspectiveSWIFT system availability from a user perspective.Methods. A variety of data-collection efforts were completed, including questionnaires, focus groups and telephone interviews. The questionnaires contained items that addressed objectives set out in the evaluation plan. The focus groups were conducted with small groups of users to obtain qualitative impressions from a smaller subset of users who were encouraged to speak openly and share their perceptions with other users. The SWIFT Consumer Acceptance Study focused on measurement and analysis of user perceptions toward SWIFT system usefulness and performance. No attempt was made to quantify the system level impacts of SWIFT services on congestion, air quality, energy consumption or safety in the Seattle region. Rather, the assessment of system-level transportation impacts was limited to examining subjective data (e.g., traveler's perceptions) collected from users and determining whether these perceptions were consistent with a benefit.Perceptions of Importance of Traveler In formationResults indicated that SWIFT users tended to place a high degree of importance on incident and congestion-related information in travel planning. Incident location and duration information was rated quite high in importance along with general traffic congestion information. For the group as a whole, information concerning bus schedule and route information and bus-location information was rated very low in importance, although these ratings were much higher in those users that actually used the bus. This was consistent with the automobile dependence reported by the group, and suggests that information concerning non-automobile options would not be used by the automobile-dependent group. Since users of the SWIFT portable computer were recruited from among transit users, this group generally rated transit information higher than other device users groups. However, the importance of this information was not as high as congestion and incident-related information. Receipt of various general-information messages was not rated very high in importance by questionnaire respondents, with the exception of weather, sports and news items. Most SWIFT respondents indicated that the receipt of financial and other environmental information was not important. Of course, from a transportation-impact point of view, the receipt of these general information messages was inconsequential. However, if device users were attracted by thesemessages it may make such services commercially viable to augment any potential benefitperceived by users through the receipt of travel-related information.Perceptions of S WIFT Traveler In formation UsefulnessUsers tended to view the messages they received from the SWIFT systems as accurate, reliable,timely, easy to understand and useful. Among device types, respondents representing users of the Seiko Message Watch expressed concern with the timeliness of incident-related messages. In addition, these respondents tended to rate ease of understanding lower than other user groups. Users of the Delco in-vehicle-navigation devices and SWIFT portable computers experienced problems in receiving personal-paging messages and these problems were reflected in respondent ratings. The map-based display provided by the SWIFT portable computer resulted in generally higher ratings for this device over other devices in understanding incident location and the nature of congestion. Seiko Message Watch users reported difficulty in understanding the extent of expected delay as well as the nature of congestion, while Delco in-vehicle-navigation device respondents reported difficulty in understanding the period of time for which a message applied. Generally speaking, SWIFT participants endorsed a wide-range of improvements to messages provided by the SWIFT system. Most seemed to consider the operational test as a suggestion of what might be possible, rather than a demonstration of a final product. Among Seiko Message Watch users, respondents expressed a desire for improved timeliness of messages as atop priority.

Authors:
Trombly,J., Wetherby,B., Dixson,A.

Keywords:
Acceptance, air quality, analysis, Assessment, ATIS, availability, bus, computer, congestion, congestion information, Consumer, data, data collection, Energy, environmental, evaluation, group, impact, impacts, improvement, incident, interviews, Miscellaneous Library, objectives, performance, planning, portable computer, quality, reliability, safety, seattle, Study, SWIFT, System, systems, traffic, traffic congestion, transit, transportation, travel, traveler information, urban

Download Report:

Abstract:
The Seattle Wide-area Information For Travelers (SWIFT) project was a highly successful Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) Field Operational Test (FOT) that was conducted over a four-year period from 1993 to 1997. The purpose of the project was to test the efficacy of a High Speed Data System (HSDS), or FM Sub-carrier, to disseminate incident, bus and speedlcongestion information via three different end-user devices: pager watch, portable computer and in-vehicle navigation device. Six hundred ninety (690) commuters, many with route- or mode-choice options, participated in the FOT and provided user-acceptance evaluations. Other evaluation components examined the system architecture, communications coverage, institutional issues, and consumer acceptance. The primary purpose of the SWIFT Deployment Cost Study was to provide an independent Life Cycle Cost Estimate (LCCE) of an operational and fully deployed SWIFT system. Moreover, it is intended to provide both the SWIFT participants and the FHWA with a measure of the commercial viability of \"SWIFT-like\" systems nationwide. Table ES- 1 shows the organizations that were included in the SWIFT Deployment Cost Study LCCE and commercial viability analysis.Table ES-1. Deployed SWIFT Participants (CostIRevenue Participants).Industry Government/InstitutionaISeiko Communications Systems, Inc. (SCS) King CountyMetro Networks University of WashingtonEtak, Inc.IBM (FOT Development Only)Delco Electronics (FOT Development Only)The methodology for the SWlFT Deployment Cost Study LCCE relied on standard proven costestimation and data collection and analysis techniques to provide cost estimates for each SWIFTparticipant shown above across the following three life-cycle phases:1) FOT development (costs of current SWIFT Test)King County Metro TransitUniversity of Washington (UW)2) Commercial Development (additional development and procurement costs for fullydeploying an operational SWIFT system (follows the completion of the SWIFT test)3) Annual Commercial Operations (annual operations costs for a fully deployed SWIFTsystem)A summary of the resulting life cycle cost estimate (LCCE) for the deployed SWIFT system ispresented in Table ES-2. Here, the FOT Development phase (based on SWIFT test actuals) wasestimated to cost $6.4 Million, the Commercial Development phase was estimated to cost $1.5Million, and the Annual Commercial Operations costs were estimated to be $0.8 Million.-- -SWIFT Deployment Cost Study I

Authors:
Jensen,M.

Keywords:
Acceptance, analysis, Annual, bus, computer, Consumer, cost, costs, counties, data, data collection, Deployment, development, evaluation, incident, Institutional, Intelligent transportation system, Issues, ITS, methodology, Miscellaneous Library, mode choice, networks, portable computer, project, seattle, speed, Study, SWIFT, System, systems, transportation, Washington

Download Report:

Abstract:
The purpose of this study is to provide the Washington State Department of Transportation, Aviation Division (WSDOT/AD) with the broad-based vision needed to apply new and emerging technology in geographic information systems (GIS) to aviation planning and reporting systems.The purpose of this study is to provide the Washington State Department of Transportation, Aviatior Division with the broad-based vision needed to apply new and emerging technology ir geographic information systems to aviation planning and systems. This is the second two reports. report documented the user needs, established data and application priorities, and presented a conceptual design for sharing geographic information pertaining to Washington\'s airports with airport sponsors, the Aviation Administration (FAA), and other WSDOT divisions. report provides an implementation plan. This report builds upon the conceptual design to provide a broad-based implementation plan. Three implementation activities are described in phases. Project organization and staffing requirements for policy, management, technical operations, and technical support are discussed in Section 3. Section 4 addresses the estimated resource requirements for WSDOT to make the implementation of WINGS a success. Included are requirements for personnel, data conversion from a manual to a computer-based system, and hardware. The of the report discusses issues and what next steps are required to begin the implementation of WINGS.

Authors:
Weston,R. F., Sandersen,J., Walker,L. A., Middleton,R.

Keywords:
airports, aviation, aviation planning, data, design, geographic information system, geographic information systems, GIS, implementation plan, information systems, management, manual, planning, policy, project, System, systems, technology, transportation, Washington, Washington state, WINGS, WSDOT

Download Report:

Abstract:
This working paper, 'Travel Patterns in Mixed Use Neighborhoods,' summarizes Phase I of a research effort by the Innovations Unit of the Washington State Transportation Commission. The study is based on previous Innovations Unit research, described in the 1992 report, Land Use-Transportation Linkage (Kestle et al. 1992), the focus of which was the impact of land use policies on transportation systems. This working paper describes surveys conducted in four neighborhoods in the state of Washington (three in King County and one in Spokane) to gather data on travel behavior in neighborhoods that have a good mix of housing, shopping, and services; in other words, mixed use neighborhoods. The survey consisted of telephone interviews to determine household characteristics and the subsequent collection of travel diaries to assess household travel habits by mode and purpose. Preliminary results indicate the preponderance of trips for both family and personal business on both weekdays and weekends. Although auto is the dominant mode, results indicate the potential for shared rides in all neighborhoods and for the walk mode in the in-city neighborhoods. Directions for future research are suggested, including the study of the potential for reducing vehicle miles traveled (VMT) in mixed use neighborhoods; the relationships among mixed use development, household demographics, and travel behavior; the possibility of substituting walking for auto use; and methods for alleviating weekend traffic congestion based on a better understanding of the components of weekend travel.

Authors:
Zemotel,L., Nielsen,K., Rutherford,G. S., Ishimaru,J. M.

Keywords:
mixed use, research, innovation, Washington, Washington state, transportation, linkage, land use, land-use, policy, systems, survey, counties, data, travel behavior, behavior, development, walking, traffic, traffic congestion, congestion

Abstract:
Dames & Moore And their subcontractor, Inco Engineers, have prepared this Manual of Practice for conducting bridge foundation-soil interaction analyses. The manual is intended to assist engineers in the Bridge Design office at the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) who perform dynamic analysis of bridge-foundation systems. The primary purpose of the manual is to present practical and accurate methods of estimating the foundation stiffness matrices for abutment or pier foundations supported on footings or piles. These matrices are needed for soil-structure interaction analysis to more accurately determine the seismic loads acting on the bridge superstructure and on the abutment and pier foundations.This Manual of Practice consists of two volumes. Volume I presents five bridge example problems:1. Coldwater Creek2. Deadwater Slough3. Ebey Slough4. Northup Way5. FHWAThe first four examples are actual WSDOT bridges and the fifth example is a fictitious bridge that appeared in a 1991 FHWA course notebook on seismic design of highway bridges.Volume II presents the input and output files of the SEISAB computer program for the dynamic soil-structure interaction analysis of bridges. The SEISAB computer program is currently used by WSDOT in the seismic design of Washington state bridges.Dames & Moore recommends the FHWA and Novak methods to estimate bridge foundation stiffness matrices. These methodologies are presented in detail in the Coldwater Creek example problem in Volume I. In this example, the basic theory and relevant equations or inputs for implementing these methodologies are provided first and are immediately followed by their application to the Coldwater Creek bridge. The appropriate equations or inputs from the FHWA and Novak methodologies presented not the Coldwater Creek example problem are identified and applied in the other four bridge example problems. Volume I also contains three appendices. The basis for the recommendation of the FHWA and Novak methods is provided in Appendix A, which is a reproduction of the 1992 Dames & Moore report to WSDOT on the evaluation of methods to estimate foundation stiffnesses. Appendix B consists of selected pages from the BMCOL 76 computer program user guide; this computer program, which computes the load-deflection and moment-rotation curves for single piles, is part of the FHWA methodology. Appendix C presents the method for transforming the foundation stiffness matrices from one coordinate system to another. This transformation process is important because the coordinate systems assumed in the FHWA and Novak methods are generally different and therefore are not necessarily the same as the SEISAB coordinate system. Coordinate transformations are also discussed in the ColdWater Creek example problem.

Authors:
Dames & Moore- Inca Engineering

Keywords:
analysis, bridge, bridge design, bridge foundation, bridges, computer, computer program, design, equations, evaluation, Foudation-Soil, foundation, foundation stiffness, highway, interaction, loads, manual, methodology, methods, piles, program, seismic, seismic design, soil-structure interaction, superstructure, System, systems, transportation, volume, Volumes I & II, Washington, Washington state, WSDOT

Download Report:

Abstract:
A survey of standards for bridges, which exist in the U.S., was conducted, pertinent information concerning these standards was placed into a matrix spread sheet format using Lotus 1-2-3 and an IBM/PC. This information was reviewed for possible use in developing plans .for standard bridge systems, which could be used by county engineers in Washington.Information on types of standard bridge systems to be developed was obtained from Washington county engineers via a questionnaire. It is recommended that designs for at least one standard bridge system be developed for each of the primary materials readily available in Washington, namely: steel, concrete and wood. Other details, which should be included in the standards, are given.

Authors:
Sorensen,H., Olson,C. D.

Keywords:
bridge, bridge standards, bridges, concrete, counties, design, lotus 1-2-3, materials, microcomputer, spread sheet, steel, survey, systems, Washington, Washington County Engineers

Download Report:

Abstract:
The Telecom Link established between the University of Washington and the WSDOT Traffic Systems Management Center (TSMC) was updated during this project in order to handle the shift made by the TSMC from a 1700 loop surveillance system to a 2200 loop system. Special computer programs were also written to provide specialized summary statistics for key stations. The new software allowed statistics for key stations to be collected and summarized during data transfer. The entire transfer retrieval system was streamlined during the Telecom project to reduce costs. Finally, freeway incident analysis was performed with a data set to demonstrate the use of the new system for TSM research.

Authors:
Nihan,N. L.

Keywords:
analysis, computer, computer program, cost, costs, data, data management, data transfer, freeway, freeway surveillance and control, incident, management, program, ramp metering, research, software, statistics, surveillance, systems, telecommunications, telecommunications link, traffic, traffic systems management, transportation systems management, TSM, Washington, WSDOT

Download Report:

Abstract:
A Highway Advisory Radio (HAR) system was installed on I-90, Snoqualmie Pass to inform motorists of winter driving conditions. Despite numerous operational problems with equipment, the service has been well received by the traveling public. The system was found to have an added benefit during the summer months as an information system to alert motorists of delays or other problems caused by construction activities. The HAR system on Snoqualmie Pass has been expanded and additional systems have been installed in the Seattle area to inform motorists of construction activities.

Authors:
Krug,H. O.

Keywords:
benefit, condition, construction, HAR, highway, Highway Advisory Radio, public, seattle, systems, winter, winter driving

Download Report:

Abstract:
This report is designed to provide information to guide inspectors of wood highway structures in the use of stress wave inspection technology. It explains the methods and instruments used to measure the velocity of stress waves (sound) in wood. The characteristic behavior of sound waves in wood of various species, moisture content, preservative treatment and infection by wood destroying organisms is described. The important effects of the anatomy of wood and the orientation of grain and annual rings to the wave path are discussed to aid in the interpretation of measurements. Characteristics of the instrumentation essential to its calibration are explained and instruction is provided in the appropriate use of these tools. This report has been written to serve as a manual for \"on site \" stress wave inspection of the kind of wood structures found in highway systems. It is a compendium or experience in the field inspection of many wood buildings and highway bridges. Original research conducted to fill in voids in the published studies, is described in the Appendices.

Authors:
Hoyle,R. J. Jr, Rutherford,G. S.

Keywords:
behavior, bridge, bridges, calibration, grain, highway, insect damage, inspection, ITS, manual, nondestructive testing, research, sound waves, Stress waves, stresses, structures, systems, technology, termite damage, velocity, wood decay

Download Report:

Abstract:
This report describes the feasibility, costs and benefits of automating the vessel and crew scheduling functions of the Marine Division of the Washington State Department of Transportation. The project examined the needs of the Marine Division, reviewed its current procedures, and compared available commercial and public domain software packages. Some existing packages intended for use by the transit and airline industries offer promise, but all the packages examined require considerable modification to meet the needs of the Marine Division.

Authors:
Hallenbeck,M. E.

Keywords:
analysis, automated toll collection, automated vehicle identification, AVI, benefit, benefits, billing, cost, costs, crew scheduling, data, ferry, ferry system, ITS, marine, public, scheduling, scheduling systems, software, systems, transit, transportation, vessel, Washington, Washington state

Download Report:

Abstract:
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) designed and installed Service Level 1 (SL-1) bridge rails on three treated timber bridges in the state. To date there have been no accidents or maintenance problems reported at any of the modified bridges.

Authors:
Gripne,D.

Keywords:
accidents, bridge, Bridge rail modification, bridges, maintenance, Rail for Timber Bridge, systems, traffic, transportation, Washington, Washington state, WSDOT

Download Report:

Abstract:
An extensive state-of-the-art review of construction methods and results for latex modified concrete (LMC) and low slump, dense concrete (LSDC) overlays is presented in this report. Recommendations are made for improvements in construction procedures, inspection, and specifications. An analysis and preventative measures for plastic shrinkage cracks in LMC are presented. Other alternate bridge deck protective systems were examined.

Authors:
LaFraugh,R. W., Zinserling,M. H.

Keywords:
analysis, bridge, bridge deck, bridges, concrete, concrete overlays, construction, construction methods, cracking, Deck, improvement, inspection, Interim, latex modified concrete, low slump dense concrete, methods, overlay, overlays, plastic, review, shrinkage, specification, specifications, state-of-the-art, System, systems

Download Report:

Abstract:
This report describes a newly established telecommunications link between Seattle\'s Traffic System Management Center (TSMC) and the University of Washington\'s (UW) Information Retrieval System. Volume data in five-minute intervals collected by the TSMC is transferred to the UW computer system. The reports contains a description of this 1 ink and a User\'s Guide for those who wish to access the data.

Authors:
Nihan,N. L.

Keywords:
computer, data, freeway surveillance, information retrieval, management, seattle, System, systems, telecommunications, telecommunications link, traffic, traffic systems management, traffic volumes, volume, Washington

Download Report:

Abstract:
This report examines major issues, concepts and methods of bus transit performance evaluation and suggests procedures and guidelines for internal and external monitoring in Washington State. In support of suggested procedures, data analysis on six years of operational and financial characteristics of Washington State systems, 1979-80 Section 15 data, and collected samples of small community/rural systems from other states was conducted. The major objective of the analysis was to test methodologies for developing and assessing transit peer groups\" relative to size and scale of operations, and prior to comparative within-group evaluation. The methodology entailed employing cluster analysis using up to 10 variables depicting service design and distribution. Two key variables were population and line miles. Problems were encountered in using Section 15 data. Due to its use of urban area, as opposed to service area population, clear distinctions of operating environments could not be determined. Thus, cluster groupings using Section 15 data were inconclusive. Cluster State systems (1980) were satisfactory and following additional verification, a suggested \"peer group\" classification for Washington State was recommended. The seven group types ranged in size from a rural regional (<40,000 population) to metropolitan (<1,000,00 population). Values for 8 efficiency and effectiveness indicators were used to assess \"peer group\" trends in performance in Washington over a five-year period (1976-80). Comparative evaluations of individual systems were not made. Despite only partial success in determining \"peer groups\", the study does identify methods and procedures for assisting in external and internal performance evaluation.

Authors:
Kelly,W. J., Rutherford,G. S.

Keywords:
peer group evaluation, analysis, bus, bus transit, cluster analysis, data, data collection, design, effectiveness, efficiency, environment, evaluation, group, indicator, indicators, Issues, ITS, line, methodology, methods, monitoring, Operating, performance, performance evaluation, performance measures, performance standards, population, rural, section 15 data, Study, System, systems, transit, urban, Washington, Washington state

Download Report:

Abstract:
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) designed and installed Service Level 1 (SL-1) bridge rails on three treated timber bridges in the state. To date there have been no accidents or maintenance problems reported at any of the modified bridges.

Authors:
Gripne,D.

Keywords:
accidents, bridge, Bridge rail modification, bridges, maintenance, Rail for Timber Bridge, systems, traffic, transportation, Washington, Washington state, WSDOT

Download Report:

Abstract:
The Motor Carrier Act of 1980 and the Staggers Act of 1980 have partially set aside decades of rigid regulations of interstate freight movement. These actions have the potential to bring forth significant changes to the networks of interstate freight transportation. The object of this research was to ascertain the impacts of deregulation of the Washington State transportation system. Information was obtained by surveying and interviewing shippers and freight transportation providers throughout the state. Anticipated impacts, e.g. accelerated rail abandonment or lost of motor carrier service to small communities were not present. The study reflects a relative increase in truck service and decrease in rail service since deregulation. Indications are this may be further amplified in certain regions of the state. The study recommends that potential highway impacts be incorporated into pavement management systems. Transportation officials are enjoined to treat issues relative to truck size and weight, highway cost allocation and deregulation as a single issue. Also, the Local Rail Service Assistance Program should be considered for use to offset any adverse impacts resulting from deregulation. During this period of the study, general economic conditions were poor. This resulted in a decrease in freight shipments and would suggest that some impacts of deregulation have been suppressed.

Authors:
Public Transportation and Planning Division, Washington State Department of Transportation

Keywords:
condition, cost, Deregulation, freight, highway, highway impacts, impact, impacts, management, management system, management systems, motor carrier, networks, pavement, pavement management, pavement management systems, program, rail service, railroads, regulation, research, System, systems, transportation, truck, trucking, trucks, Washington, Washington state, weight

Download Report:

Abstract:
A composite sampling device was developed that can be installed at less than ten percent of the cost of automatic sampling systems currently used in Federal highway runoff studics. This dcvi ce was operated for one year, along-side an automatic sampler at the 1-5 side, to demonstrate that the two systems provide statistically identical storm composites.

Authors:
Clark,David L., Mar,B. W.

Keywords:
cost, developed, highway, highway runoff, Interim, runoff, sampling, System, systems, Water Pollutants, Washington State Monitoring

Download Report:

Abstract:
As part of their continuing effort to prolong the life of existing pavement systems, highway engineers must continue to improve upon design and rehabilitation methods. In past years, design methods based upon empericism have been employed with considerable success. As loading and materials change or become more complex, the older practices become less useful and a new approach undertaken. Throughout the U.S. and elsewhere, there has been emerging new technology often termed " rational " , "systematic", "mechanistic", and other terms used to describe new approaches to pavement analysis and design. Mostof these are based on elastic or viscoelastic layered representation of the pavement structure and have the potential to become powerful tools for the highway engineer. In recent years, the University of Washington has assisted the Washington State Highway Department on various research projects . One project resulted in a report that has been used to develop guidelines for allowable truck traffic through the concept of pavement damage and/or remaining life . The basis forth is report was the concept that pavement structures can be reasonably well represented by elastic layered systems. Analysis of the mechanistic behavior can then be used to predict pavement response and l i f e expectancy. As a result of this study and after discussions with Highway Department personnel, it was determined that the procedures, techniques, as well as other information used in the above report may be of further interest to them. In other words, the methods as well as results had potential utilization in a wide range of applications . As a result , a seminar program was set up whereby the writer would conduct or lead weekly discussion sessions on key topics.

Authors:
Terrel,R. L.

Keywords:
analysis, applications, behavior, damage, design, highway, materials, mechanistic, pavement, pavement damage, program, rehabilitation, remaining life, research, seminar, structures, systems, technology, traffic, truck, Washington, Washington state

Download Report:

Abstract:
This report documents the results of an investigation to determine the attenuative effect of two cascaded walls or barrier screens on the transmission of sound. The study was for point sources and involved the use of tone burst techniques for the experimental determination of the attenuation produced by a wide variety of two-wall configurations. This work was modeled at 5 and 10 kHz. The final result was the development of an algorithm for accurately predicting the attenuation of two-wall systems.

Authors:
Foss,R. N.

Keywords:
attenuation, barrier, barriers, development, experimental, Fresenel diffraction, Highway acoustics, noise, noise screens, Noise supression, systems, walls

Download Report:

Abstract:
The purpose of this study is to establish guidelines and procedures for the measurement of the social effects of transportation systems and facilities on both a regional and community or neighborhood level. This coincides with the increased emphasis on human factors in the planning and design of transportation systems and facilities, which has necessitated the development of a systematic approach to gathering social data and developing normative standards. In part of this increased emphasis has been mandated by Federal statutes such as the National Environmental Policy Act o f 1969 and the Intergovernmental Act of 1968.A detailed examination of the seven-fold classification scheme of social factors and an emphasis on the methodologies used to evaluate social impacts is discussed. Emphasis is placed on the analytical framework utilizing the major phases of inventing existing social conditions, identifying potential changes and measurement of probable impacts. From this analysis a systematic approach to identifying and measuring social impact in transportation planning is put forth, for use by those assigned this responsibility.

Authors:
Social and Econonomic Planning Section of the WA State Department of Highways

Keywords:
analysis, condition, data, design, development, environmental, facilities, framework, human factors, impact, impacts, Measurement of Social Impact, social factors, community identity, community values and desires, community cohesion, disruption, displacement, relocation, minority interest, methodology, planning, policy, systems, transportation, transportation planning

Download Report:

Abstract:
Tests were conducted on various pavements t o investigate the correlation between measurements obtained using the Impulse Index Computer and pavement condition as determined by other means. Benkelman Beam deflection measurements and Impulse Index measurements are compared along with Washington State Pavement Rating System results. Effect of temperature on the apparent Impulse Index is evaluated..

Authors:
Brands,F., Cook,C. J.

Keywords:
Benkleman beam, computer, condition, Deflection test, impulse index, impulse testing, index, pavement, pavement condition, pavement deflection, pavement evaluation, pavement maintenance, pavements, systems, temperature, tests, Washington, Washington state

Download Report:

Abstract:
Four different types of pavement marking materials were tested in Ring #6; three brands of striping paints and one thermoplastic stripping tape. These striping materials were applied on two sections, the ploymer ranked on the basis of appearance, wear, and whiteness.The thermoplastic striping material consistently outperformed the three paints. The materials wore more rapidly on the polymer cement concrete that on the asphalt concrete and the ranking order for the paints was different for the two sections. The Type #3 stud seemed to have worn the paints more rapidly than either #4, #2, GST, US and UST studs and tires in that order respectively. The superiority of the ethermoplastic striping tape was due to its thickness and its construction. Last year Kennametal, Inc. sent the Transportation Systems Section four different types of traffic paint and a thermoplastic striping tape. Time did not permit the testing of these materials in Ring #5, so these materials were tested in Ring # 6.

Authors:
Krukar,M.

Keywords:
asphalt, asphalt concrete, concrete, construction, effects, ITS, materials, pavement, Phase II, polymer, striping, striping paints, stripping, Studded, studded tire, studded tires, studs, System, systems, tire, tires, traffic, transportation

Download Report:

Abstract:
A study was conducted of rest area wastewater disposal problems and related factors for the Washington State Highway Commission during the period of June - December 1971. This report on the study is intended to present an evaluation of present rest area wastewater systems together with feasibility analyses of alternative methods of waste handling. It is not intended to be a preliminary engineering design report.Data are presented on rest area problems as reported to or observed by the writers on field visitations. This is followed by discussions of criteria and standards presently used in rest area design together with data on water usage for those rest areas where "complete" data were available. Laboratory analyses were made on rest area wastewaters and on a certain additive, " Bacterial Waste Disposer", that has been used in some of the rest areas. A discussion is included on possible future trends and uses of rest areas and the need to minimize water usage. Chapter XI1 contains the principal thrust of the report in its discussion of possible rest area wastewater disposal methods with an evaluation and some relative cost data. With increasingly stringent requirements for wastewater disposal, it seems apparent that rest area wastewaters must continue to be disposed of on highway property. If not, the Department would find itself, in most instances, with the task of operating continuously and effectually some rather complicated treatment systems that require trained operators, operational reports and effluent analyses, and systems that are not usually amenable to the flow characteristics of rest area wastewaters. Since much national attention is being given to these problems, it is hoped that new or improved treatment schemes may be developed in the future that will be appropriate for rest areas. An intent of this study has thus been to suggest means of wastewater disposal, presently available that would offer an improvement to the septic tank drain field method of disposal.Conclusions and recommendations drawn from the study are as follows:1. There is no question but that septic tank- drain field disposal systems would, because of their simplicity, be the preferred method of disposal if their installation were applicable to most rest areas and if they would, from past experiences here and elsewhere give some assurance of a freedom from operating difficulties over a period of just a few years.

Authors:
Seabloom,Robert W.

Keywords:
additive, Alternative, cost, criteria, data, design, developed, disposal, evaluation, flow, highway, improvement, ITS, methods, Operating, rest area, rest areas, Study, System, systems, Washington, Washington state

Download Report:

Abstract:
At the request of the Washington Department of Highways a comprehensive study was conducted of the exposures of toll collectors to carbon monoxide at the Evergreen Point Bridge spanning Lake Washington between Seattle and Bellevue.The first phase of the study consisted of designing, installing and operating an automatic, continuous carbon monoxide monitoring system to establish typical air quality patterns in and around the toll booths.the second phase consisted of developing a prototype toll booth positive ventilation system. Air, which is introduced through a vertical diffuser situated at one wall of the booth, travels horizontally across the booth and out the door. Parametric studies of sources and rates of ventilation air, diffuser design and other toll booth modifications were conducted in the laboratory. Subsequently these modifications were installed and investigated at an operating booth at the toll plaza. Concentrations of carbon monoxide in the collectors breathing zone were reduced to acceptable levels. Methodologies and results of these systems are described, and design recommendations for the control system are offered.

Authors:
Rossana,T. A., Hall,F. A.

Keywords:
air quality, bridge, carbon monoxide, Concentrations, control, design, exposure, highway, Highways, methodology, monitoring, Operating, quality, seattle, System, systems, travel, Washington

Download Report:

Abstract:
Using full-scale construction equipment and truck loadings on a circular track of 260 feet circumference, evaluation of various base thicknesses and types has been accomplished in this first of a series of tests. Fractured and non-fractured aggregatre, treated and untreated bases, asphaltic and portland cement type bases are used. Results of the firest ring indicate type of failure under varied enviornmental conditions with pavement systems subjected to millions of load applications. Difficulties in determining comparative equivalencies are discussed. Instrumentations used and possibilities for future use in rational design are reported.

Authors:
Riedesel,G. A.

Keywords:
applications, base, condition, construction, design, equipment, evaluation, experimental, pavement, research, systems, test track, tests, truck, truck loadings, volume

Download Report:

Abstract:
Alternatives to control wastewater odors on board Washington State ferries and during discharge of the wastewater to sewerage systems were formulated, evaluated and tested.Holding tank aeration, using compressed air injection to a recycle line is an effective method. Sulfide is microbially oxidized, and anaerobic sulfate reducing bacteria are suppressed. Engineering and lab studies and a simulation model of the process were used to estimate suitable design parameters and costs. A prototype installation is recommended for optimization of operation. The addition of slug dosages of H202 was also found to be effective in laboratory and on-board vessels. The twice daily dose of about 50 mg/ should be stirred into the holding tank using recycle mixing. Peroxide was found to oxidize sulfide, increase dissolved oxygen and suppress sulfate reducing bacteria. Bottom suction sludge hoppers must be installed to prevent accumulation of sludge in tank bottom.Other alternatives, including chlorine addition, pH increase, iron sulfide precipitation and toxic odor control compounds, were found ineffective and/or uneconomic.Other finds are that sulfide is produced primarily from reduction of sulfates from the saltwater flushing water. Production is primarily in the slime layer on the bottom and sides of the holding tanks. On-shore force mains are sites of sulfide production during stagnant periods between tank pumpouts. These force mains should tanks was evaluated for hydraulic, organic loading, and salt toxicity effects on existing and planned sewage plants. No significant impacts were found.

Authors:
Sylvester,R. O., Ferguson,J. F., Parish,K. B., Brown,D. W., Leuelid,S.

Keywords:
control, cost, costs, design, disposal, dissolved oxygen, effects, ferries, ferry, impact, impacts, line, Marine wastewater holding tanks, odor control, wastewater aeration, hydrogen peroxide, model, Precipitation, salt, sewerage, Study, System, systems, Toxicity, vessel, vessels, Washington, Washington state

Download Report: