Title:
Concrete Enhances Highway Corridor Colored
Author(s):
Daniel Frentress
Publication:
Concrete International
Volume:
24
Issue:
6
Appears on pages(s):
68-70
Keywords:
DOI:
Date:
6/1/2002
Abstract:
Highway 96, an old state road now under the jurisdiction of Ramsey County, Minn., connects two federal highways in the Minneapolis and St. Paul area. With a current average traffic of 16,000 vehicles per day, which is projected to increase to 24,000 within 20 years, the road required additional capacity. Ramsey County proceeded to have the two-lane route reconstructed into a four-lane divided highway with turning lanes. As a result, the new road is visually striking, with colored quarry-red concrete and elaborate landscaping. The design and construction of the new Highway 96 corridor emphasizes good and safe service for motor and pedestrian traffic, longevity in that service, while maintaining an aesthetical appeal in the areas through which it passes. As designed, the rebuilt corridor features new storm sewers, curbs and gutters, and such environmental amenities as 4000 trees and shrubs, assorted wild flowers, noise barriers, and necessary sprinkler systems to keep the planted vegetation healthy.