Highway & Network Management

Our series of profiles on winning projects from the 2010 Global Road Achievement (GRAA) Awards continues with the Construction Methodology Category won by Barrier Systems/Utah Department of Transportation With any major road construction project, the disruption of traffic flow is of paramount concern for engineers, workers and travellers, particularly as it relates to increased traffic delays and the safety of those driving through the work zone.

Christophe Nicodème, ERF's Director General, explores a missing link in the road safety chain

A key road project is now commencing in Peruvian port Callao. The work is costing some US$186.4 million and is being carried out by Brazilian contractor Andrade Gutierrez.

Siemens is offering a sophisticated variable message sign (VMS), developed in the UK. The firm's new Elektra family of VMS is said to offer a versatile solution to meet the requirements of variable message signs in a wide variety of applications. Elektra provides visible information to drivers, helping reduce traffic congestion and journey times while minimising pollution levels from queuing traffic. Available in a range of different enclosure sizes, with display characters from 100-320mm and easy integrati

SAY Security is offering a novel technology developed for the lighting sector that can help reduce energy consumption. The firm is offering novel Chinese-developed eco lighting that features specially designed reflectors and light tubes. The products are design to operate in high--frequency and operate flicker free with electronic instant start, reduced electromagnetic and ultra-violet radiation between 20%-40%, prolonged durability and soft lighting characteristics. The lights are also said to be effective

The Japanese Government is planning to make several expressway sections toll-free. This forms part of a pilot programme, with six sections of the country's expressway network intended to be made toll-free for all vehicles.