DOT must review and approve any changes to the layout of City streets. The process for securing this approval will vary depending on context and proposed changes. The following information provides a helpful guide; however, DOT may require different or additional materials in order to approve a specific project.
Process:
Well before making significant investment in a project’s design, reach out to DOT staff early to discuss project goals and understand DOT’s requirements for the process.
A traffic study or other transportation analysis may be required depending on the changes proposed. Any work requiring a traffic study must be closely coordinated with DOT. Key considerations and requirements for preparation of a traffic study include, but are not limited to:
- Identification of study intersections;
- Identification of study time periods (i.e., weekday and/or weekend peak hours);
- Existing and projected future traffic volumes – daily and peak hour on weekdays and/or weekends;
- Existing and proposed street directions – one-way or two-way;
- Intersection control devices – traffic signals, stop-controls (two-way or all-way), roundabouts;
- Traffic control devices – posted speed signs, warning signs, turn-ban signs, guiderail/barrier, etc.;
- Traffic signal operation parameters – signal timings, phasing, cycle lengths, and offsets;
- Roadway geometry/pavement markings – lane configurations, lane widths, and related channelization features;
- Pedestrian amenities – crosswalks, pedestrian signals, sidewalks, pedestrian ramps;
- Bicycle facilities – conventional lanes, parking-protected lanes, shared lanes;
- Bus transit facilities – designated bus lanes, bus stops, bus shelters;
- Curbside usage/activity – presence of on-street parking (alternate-side, metered), posted regulations (No Stopping, No Standing, No Parking), level of parking activity and truck loading/unloading activity; and
- Existing and proposed curb cuts for vehicular access to abutting property.
DOT may also utilize operational measures to evaluate traffic impacts, (e.g. barricades closing or restricting Open Streets) so traffic counts can be taken that are more experimental and less theoretical. This methodology has proven very successful in advancing projects.
To start, develop an initial design based on the project goals and submit to DOT for review. Designs should address the Key Considerations and adhere to the various design treatments, as applicable, outlined in this Chapter. The submission package should include a Geometric Design Plan, a Signage and Pavement Markings Plan, and a Swept-Path Analysis (review details below). A Traffic Study, if required, should be developed in consultation with DOT. This is an iterative process, with DOT reviewing and providing comments throughout. The design team should address and incorporate DOT’s feedback before resubmitting for further review. Once the curb design changes are finalized, DOT will issue Geometric Design approval. The design is then typically developed further to account for below-grade utilities, grading and drainage considerations, and other factors that might impact the proposed design, though these should also be factored in during the initial design phase to the greatest extent feasible. Subsequent changes to the curb line require a new approval from DOT.
Submission Requirements:
- Geometric Design Plan
- This plan generally communicates the proposed curb changes. New curb lines are shown in a heavier line-weight overlaid on an existing conditions survey plan. Key changes should be annotated.
- Relocated street infrastructure should also be shown in bold (fire hydrants, catch basins, etc.).
- Signage and Pavement Markings Plan
- This drawing includes proposed pavement markings and associated signage changes. New pavement markings should be shown in a heavier line-weight.
- Swept-path Analysis
- These drawings should show all required swept-path diagrams with the appropriate design vehicles; review Swept-Path Analysis for more guidance.
- General Drawing Conventions:
- Include all relevant dimensions (sidewalk widths, corner radii, etc.).
- Include a north arrow, scale, match-lines where necessary, proper stationing and reference points.
- Remove extraneous survey information to improve drawing legibility.
- Traffic Study (if required, review above)
DOT requires these materials be submitted in multiple formats, specifically PDF and DWG, and in a manner that meets DOT requirements. Please reach out to DOT for specific drawing format requirements.