AUTHOR

Mary K. Hurd
Ingeniero Consultor
Farmington Hills

ABSTRACT

Median barriers for Texas, curb and gutter in Chicago, bridge parapets on the Pensylvania Turnpike - why are department of transportation turning to white concrete for these and other applications? Enhanced driving safety due to the high visibility of the white structures is a primary reason, but aesthetic considerations are also a factor.

Contractors build white concrete median barriers in much the same way as gray ones, some with the classic New Jersey barrier shape and other following the single-slope Texas barrier design. Steel reinforcement guards against pieces of concrete being dislodged by a crash, as well as adding to the barrier’s flexural strength. Tie-down bars, dowels, or keyways recessed into the base prevent lateral displacement or overturning during impact.