PART IV: Summary of Comments - SCOR/RAC

PART IV: Summary of Comments17-May-10Reviewer Comments Distribution of Ratings■ The need statement didn't make clear why roundabout corridors compared to signalized intersections are uniquecompared to individual comparisons. The research objectives are inadequately described.■ High Priority Will compliment our K-TRAN study on roundabouts■ Reasonable topic for research. This project should advance the science of roundabout performance.■ The current accident rate on urban and suburban roads is sufficient to warrant additional research. Data is available tosupport the drop in accident and an increase in business where traditional traffic lights were replaced by roundabouts.Municipalities and constructions firms should be involved in the planning of roundabouts although NCHRP should headthe efforts and create guidelines for construction and operation. The benefits can be realized throughout the country aswell as foreign countries. Case studies in the United States and the United Kingdom has returned very positive results.■ With the increase in the use of roundabouts, this research has some merit.Other■ [Rating: 4]Item #47:F-05Convincing the Stakeholders: Developing a Guide forCommunicating Maintenance and Preservation Needs(17)(46)NR 0 1 2 3 4 5SCOR 3 4 3 3 4RAC 1 5 8 11 13 11Standing Committee on Research■ Rating is based on this proposal as a stand alone project. NCHRP staff review of this proposal recommends adding thisto NCHRP Project 14-20, Consequences of Delayed Maintenance, and increasing the project estimate by $250,000. Thisseems appropriate.■ Decision makers need this kind of guide to show value and to validate needs■ look at NCHRP 14-20■ Possible overlap with NCHRP 8-71 and 14-20■ Seems like a lot of money to develop a marketing plan. Should try to take advantage of other industries and businessesthat have already done this.■ [Rating: 3] Other efforts are underway at AASHTO (the National Public Affairs workshop) that spotlight and awardsuccessful communications campaigns. This proposed research supplements efforts such as that.Research Advisory Committee■ Incorporate into NCHRP Project 14-20■ The trend in funding maintenance operations has led to a nationwide deterioration of our highway system.Communicating these effects more effectively would lead to better understanding and improving funding levels ofservice. Would suggest that the funding be reduced from $350,000 to $100,000 and the research period be cut in halffrom two years to one.■ Could be useful. but cost seems high.■ If this issue can result in improved communication to increase the amount funded for bridge and highway repair, it shouldbe rated very high■ This seems to be a logical add-on to NCHRP 14-20 and would address how to implement the findings of 14-20.■ Agree with modifying NCHRP 14-20IV-31