Legislature(2011 - 2012)Anch LIO Rm 220
10/06/2011 01:00 PM House TRANSPORTATION
| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| Presentation: Traffic Safety Corridors | |
| Adjourn |
* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
ALASKA STATE LEGISLATURE
HOUSE TRANSPORTATION STANDING COMMITTEE
Anchorage, Alaska
October 6, 2011
1:09 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT
Representative Peggy Wilson, Chair
Representative Lance Pruitt, Vice Chair
Representative Eric Feige
Representative Max Gruenberg
Representative Pete Petersen
MEMBERS ABSENT
Representative Craig Johnson
Representative Cathy Engstrom Munoz
OTHER LEGISLATORS PRESENT
Representative Mike Hawker
COMMITTEE CALENDAR
PRESENTATION: TRAFFIC SAFETY CORRIDORS
- HEARD
PREVIOUS COMMITTEE ACTION
No previous action to record
WITNESS REGISTER
MARC LUIKEN, Commissioner
Department of Transportation & Public Facilities
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Provided a presentation with regard to the
traffic safety corridors established in 2006.
SCOTT THOMAS, Engineer
Traffic Section
Department of Transportation & Public Facilities
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: During presentation regarding traffic
safety corridors, answered questions.
ROB CAMPBELL, Regional Director
Central Region
Department of Transportation & Public Facilities
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: During presentation regarding traffic
safety corridors, answered questions.
TERRY VRABEC, Deputy Commissioner
Department of Public Safety
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: During presentation regarding traffic
safety corridors, provided comments.
LIEUTENANT TOM DUNN, Deputy Commander
Alaska Bureau of Highway Patrol
Alaska State Troopers
Department of Public Safety
Wasilla, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Provided a presentation regarding traffic
safety corridors.
CAPTAIN RANDAHL HAHN, Commander
Alaska Bureau of Investigations
Department of Public Safety
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: During presentation regarding traffic
safety corridors, answered questions.
ACTION NARRATIVE
1:09:07 PM
CHAIR PEGGY WILSON called the House Transportation Standing
Committee meeting to order at 1:09 p.m. Representatives Feige,
Pruitt, Gruenberg, Petersen, and P. Wilson were present at the
call to order. Also in attendance was Representative Hawker.
^Presentation: Traffic Safety Corridors
Presentation: Traffic Safety Corridors
1:09:48 PM
CHAIR P. WILSON announced that the only order of business would
be presentations regarding traffic safety corridors in Alaska.
She stated that this meeting is a follow-up of a meeting that
occurred two years ago. She related her understanding that new
safety data is now available for review.
1:11:21 PM
MARC LUIKEN, Commissioner, Department of Transportation & Public
Facilities, informed the committee that today he is going to
focus on the traffic safety corridors that were identified in
2006. The identification of those traffic safety corridors were
driven by head-on collisions occurring between 2001 and 2007.
The map on the slide entitled "Define the Problem" uses dots to
represent a head-on collision or major injury accident during
2001-2007. The other issue [driving the designation of traffic
safety corridors] is the 50 years of two-lane interstates in
Alaska. In 1960 Alaska was excluded from the Interstate Highway
Program; the federal government decided that Alaska could get by
without an interstate highway system for about 20 years. Fifty
years later and Alaska still has little to no multi-lane,
divided, interstate highway. He noted that he tried to point
out the aforementioned to U.S. Department of Transportation
Secretary LaHood when he was in Alaska a couple of weeks ago.
He said he also pointed out the challenges Alaska faces as it's
the only state with national highways over permafrost and a good
portion of its national highway is gravel. The aforementioned
didn't seem to faze Secretary LaHood. He then shared a
photograph of the Seward Highway in the summer when it's at
capacity, which illustrates the various use conflicts of the
highway.
1:17:16 PM
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN pointed out that the chart entitled "TOTAL
Fatal Crashes & Fatalities in ALASKA: 1977-2011 with Annual
Statewide Vehicle-Mile TOTALS" illustrates that the traffic
volume on Alaska's roads are gradually increasing. However,
over the last 35 years there has been a downward trend in the
number of crashes, major injuries, and fatalities. Although the
traffic safety corridors were established five years ago, the
aforementioned downward trend illustrates the ongoing effort
over the last 20-30 years to identify and address safety issues.
Again, the Seward Highway is a good example of the
aforementioned as it was realigned to its current alignment
several years ago to address safety issues, although it wasn't
identified as a traffic safety corridor. He then pointed out
the chart entitled "2008-2011 Statewide Fatal & Major Injury
Crashes with Annual Statewide Vehicle-Mile Totals", which
illustrates that the number of fatal crashes and major injuries
is down compared to how many more vehicle miles are being
transited on Alaska's roads. He then informed the committee
that all the traffic safety corridors have been recognized as a
service level A, which results in those corridors receiving a
significant amount more of attention in terms of maintenance and
operation annually. He then directed attention to the map on
the slide entitled "Current Traffic Safety Corridors", which
illustrates where these traffic safety corridors are located.
The traffic safety corridor idea was taken from Oregon and Ohio,
both of which had similar programs that were successful.
Initially, this was approached from the "3 E's" perspective such
that engineering, education, and enforcement would be addressed.
The DOT&PF deals with the engineering and adds signs, lanes,
rumble strips, guardrails, and reflective striping. He noted
that he and Commissioner Masters, Department of Public Safety
(DPS), are part of an ongoing education effort via radio spots,
public safety announcements, and various other initiatives to
educate the public. Enforcement is left to the Department of
Public Safety. He mentioned that two years ago DOT&PF utilized
its funds to help establish the Alaska Bureau of Highway Patrol
(ABHP) in order to help enforce the driving under the influence
(DUI) safety aspect. Again, the goal is to concentrate on the
high volume roads that have been identified.
1:22:44 PM
CHAIR P. WILSON inquired as to the percent [of accidents] in
which drinking was part of the problem.
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN deferred to the Department of Public Safety.
He then informed the committee that less than 10 percent of
fatal or major injury crashes were attributed to passing
maneuvers. Therefore, [accidents] are more about loss of
control, speeding, impairment, and fatigue.
1:23:37 PM
REPRESENTATIVE PRUITT inquired as to the impact of new
technology in vehicles with regard to people surviving
accidents. He then asked if the engineering on the roads is
resulting in safer [accident outcomes].
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN opined that the earlier related statistics
are the result of the combination of the 3E strategy and new
[automobile] technology. Although he didn't have the specific
numbers, he offered to carve out what he could from the data.
He highlighted that all of the decisions being made are driven
by the data. In further response to Representative Pruitt,
Commissioner Luiken said that regarding whether [the 3E strategy
and new automobile technology] make drivers feel more
comfortable with passing and going faster would be relevant to
the driver behavior, which DPS could discuss.
1:25:41 PM
REPRESENTATIVE GRUENBERG surmised that there seem to be two
types of collisions: multi-vehicle collisions and single-
vehicle collisions. Therefore, he inquired as to why the
problem was devised such that it only involved multi-car
collisions.
1:27:26 PM
SCOTT THOMAS, Engineer, Traffic Section, Department of
Transportation & Public Facilities, clarified that DOT&PF isn't
exclusively concerned with head-on traffic collisions. The
department is just as concerned about single-vehicle run-off-
the-road collisions, which also lead to fatalities and major
injuries. Often, [crashes] begin as a single-vehicle event
[caused by driver behavior], but then meet another vehicle,
particularly on the higher volume stretches of road. Therefore,
such situations become multi-vehicle collisions [and thus the
focus on head-on collisions]. [The statistics presented], he
clarified, actually consider total crashes and other types [of
crashes].
1:28:15 PM
REPRESENTATIVE GRUENBERG acknowledged that less than 10 percent
of crashes are due to passing maneuvers. He then inquired as to
the percentage of the total crashes that are single-vehicle
crashes versus multi-vehicle crashes that are not attributable
to passing maneuvers.
MR. THOMAS informed the committee that DOT&PF and DPS are
working together to develop a strategic highway safety plan,
including an emphasis on single-vehicle crashes. Although the
totals per year are still being compiled, there are 26 deaths
and over 100 injuries statewide annually for single-vehicle run-
off-the-road crashes. Therefore, he estimated that 26 deaths
would be about one-quarter to 30 percent of the deaths. All the
fatal and major injury crashes are being reviewed, albeit in
different ways. For example, rumble strips are being used down
the center line as well as the shoulders of roads.
1:29:35 PM
CHAIR P. WILSON asked if the department has any information
regarding the success of the rumble strips.
MR. THOMAS answered that the department only has such
information from other states, which illustrate a possible 30
percent reduction in head-on collisions.
1:30:13 PM
REPRESENTATIVE PETERSEN opined that it's important to remind
visitors to turn on headlights at all times in the [traffic
safety] corridors and have signage to inform drivers of pull
outs. Furthermore, visitors need to be educated with regard to
the rule that a vehicle with five or more vehicles behind it
should pull over. The aforementioned could be related via
signage/message boards.
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN added that the department could also work
with rental agencies to educate its out-of-town clients with
regard to the aforementioned rules.
1:31:31 PM
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN, returning to the presentation, directed
attention to the slide entitled "4 E's-EMS", which relates that
the department has included the emergency management system
(EMS) in its coordinated effort to gather data on DOT&PF's
emphasis areas. He then continued on to the slide entitled
"What has been done?", which lays out the following
accomplishments:
Identified traffic safety corridors
Ruts repaved
3+ signals in Mat-Su
DOT/DPS audits with EMS
Message boards, Joint agency media on REDDI [report
every dangerous driver immediately], holidays
Public acceptance, change in behavior
2009 ABHP staffed; two positions in Girdwood
2010 shoulder, centerline rumble strips
2011 headlights required, REDDI signs
2011 Potters Marsh repaving
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN provided the committee with photographs of
aerial enforcement marks, rumble strips, additional passing
lanes, and electronic message boards. However, the weather
wasn't conducive to much of the aerial support.
1:34:11 PM
CHAIR P. WILSON asked if there has been an increase in calls
since the REDDI initiative has been [advertised].
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN deferred to DPS.
1:34:58 PM
REPRESENTATIVE GRUENBERG inquired as to what can be done to
improve the situation in a way that isn't the traditional use of
highway funds.
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN stated this year that the legislature will
see a focused effort on some budget themes for capital funding,
regardless of whether it's state or federal capital funding.
This effort will include focusing on safety first, reliability,
maintaining the current system, and other aspects. The point,
he specified, is to build a prioritized list of projects that
are aligned with budget themes with the hope to address what is
really necessary. In further response to Representative
Gruenberg, Commissioner Luiken said he could share the
aforementioned information now or at a future briefing. He
noted that the budget is an ongoing discussion at this point.
REPRESENTATIVE GRUENBERG expressed interest in hearing a preview
from DOT&PF today, if time is available.
1:37:39 PM
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN, continuing his presentation, moved on to
the slide entitled "Alaska Highway Safety Office." The Alaska
Highway Safety Office is very much involved in the education
piece of this effort. He reviewed the various advertisements
used by the Alaska Highway Safety Office, noting that he and
Commissioner Masters target specific topics at specific times of
the year. Much of the advertising efforts are funded through
the Alaska Highway Safety Office and the National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration. In response to Chair Wilson, the
committee was told that the acronym AIPC stands for Alaska
Injury Prevention Consultant.
1:38:59 PM
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN moved on to the slide entitled "Traffic
Reporting Upgrades" and explained that the 12-200 police crash
report form allows the collection of more detailed data. The
expanded form helps DOT&PF to better analyze crashes and
determine how to avoid them in the future. He then informed the
committee that TraCS is software that ties in traffic and
criminal activity so that [DOT&PF] can provide the appropriate
information to the appropriate parties. The aforementioned
allows better coordination for solutions, he noted. He then
informed the committee of the data driven accident and criminal
tracing system (DDACTS) that compares indices over time to
determine whether there are relationships. The aforementioned
automation allows for quicker analysis of data and decisions.
Turning to the slide entitled "511 Traveler Info System",
Commissioner Luiken informed the committee the 511 system is
expanding from being only computer-based to mobile devices. He
noted that individuals can sign up for this system and be
provided weather and road information and can provide
information to the system as well.
1:41:36 PM
CHAIR P. WILSON assumed that travelers and truck drivers would
be interested in the information provided by the 511 system.
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN agreed.
1:42:16 PM
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN, returning to his presentation, continued
with the slide entitled "5-1-1 Telephone", which ties into
Canada. He informed the committee that in the spring there will
be real time weight restrictions, such that the trucking
industry will be able to review a map with the weight
restrictions, weather conditions, warnings, and advisories. He
emphasized that the goal is to make these initiatives as
interactive as possible for the traveling public. He noted that
the system will also include information regarding construction.
In response to Representative Gruenberg, Commissioner Luiken
confirmed that all the information in the aforementioned systems
will be available to just about anyone. He then mentioned that
the system will be wireless so that folks can obtain up-to-date
information via wireless devices. The department is also
considering the use of social media websites like Facebook as
related on the slide entitled "Additional Features."
1:43:50 PM
REPRESENTATIVE GRUENBERG requested review of whether anything in
the text messaging laws would prohibit or impede the public
updating this system from wireless devices.
1:44:42 PM
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN, returning to his presentation, directed
attention to the slide entitled "The Difference is Night and
Day", which provides photographs illustrating the reflective
materials being used on Alaska's roads. Pointing to the chart
entitled "Seward Highway Traffic Safety Corridor Fatal & Major
Injury Crashes: 1977-2011", Commissioner Luiken highlighted that
through the traffic safety corridor initiative a difference has
been made in terms of fatal and major injury crashes. He opined
that part of the reason he is present today is because of the
increase in fatal accidents this year, a few of which occurred
in the traffic safety corridors. This marked increase is
following about three years in which there was a decrease in
[fatal] accidents.
1:46:04 PM
CHAIR P. WILSON related her belief that [these fatal accidents]
can be attributed to the fact that there have been no new
highways constructed in Alaska over the last 30 years. Roads
constructed in the 1970s are facing an increased amount of
traffic. Therefore, Alaska needs to [update] its roads to the
21st century.
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN agreed.
1:46:31 PM
REPRESENTATIVE GRUENBERG asked if the department is analyzing
the data to determine why there is an increase in accidents this
year or whether it's a statistical aberration.
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN said that the department will review the
data to determine if there's something that explains the
increase in accidents experienced this year. As mentioned
earlier, he predicted that driver behavior will be found to be a
significantly contributing factor to many of these crashes.
1:47:40 PM
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN informed the committee that since 2006 when
the traffic safety corridors were designated, there has been a
reduction of [fatal and major injury crashes] by about half over
all four of the traffic safety corridors. The combined efforts
of DOT&PF and DPS have resulted in this reduction in fatal and
major injury crashes. He then moved on to the slide entitled
"What is next?", which lies out the department's goals for 2011-
2013 and 2014 and beyond.
1:50:07 PM
REPRESENTATIVE GRUENBERG inquired as to the cost of the digital
message signs used by DOT&PF.
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN offered to provide that information to the
committee.
1:51:01 PM
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN informed the committee that for 2014 and
beyond, the department plans the following: continue to review
passing lanes in design, updating bridges, and [find funding] to
go to four lanes. He noted that the cost of four lanes in one
of the traffic safety corridors would be about double what the
department would expect in federal funds. He then moved on to
the slide entitled "Planned Enhancements", which relates that
the department is planning a 511 iPhone App, weight restrictions
on web maps, real-time ferry schedule via telephone and phone
transfers to the Alaska Marine Highway System, and real-time
public transit schedule information via telephone for Juneau,
Fairbanks, and Ketchikan.
1:52:37 PM
REPRESENTATIVE GRUENBERG asked if the reference to Twittering
was to occur while driving because that would run afoul of the
state's texting laws.
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN clarified that the intention is for that
information to be accessed on home computers.
1:53:15 PM
REPRESENTATIVE FEIGE thanked the commissioner for his work and
the presentation. Although there has been much effort, there
still are areas where work remains. Furthermore, many of the
improvements don't necessarily garner large changes in fatality
statistics. For instance, on the Glenn Highway mile post 66.5-
90 there are a lot of little accidents due to the vegetation
being so close to the highway and the freeze thaw cycle that
results in rocks on the highway. He then inquired as to the
plan to modernize specific sections of the highways by planning
some capital projects in those areas.
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN offered to provide such information, which
he indicated may be provided in the next State Transportation
Improvement Plan (STIP).
1:56:38 PM
ROB CAMPBELL, Regional Director, Central Region, Department of
Transportation & Public Facilities, surmised that the area being
referred to is north of Palmer to the region boundary on the
Glenn Highway. Much money has been spent in that area over the
last 10 years, specifically for projects at Caribou Creek and
Moose Creek. Currently, the department is reviewing remaining
segments in the area under a 3R analysis. The 3R analysis means
that the primary focus is on the existing alignment and accident
areas that are statistically above normal are identified and
fixed without realignment of the entire road. Those projects
are in development and are in the design side of the department.
In further response to Representative Feige, Mr. Campbell agreed
to provide [the committee] with more specific information on
these areas and projects.
1:58:06 PM
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN interjected that while the department has
concentrated on the traffic safety corridors, the Alaska Highway
Safety Office reviews all the state's highways to determine
areas in need. He then reiterated that the federal process to
design, obtain right-of-way, mark utilities, and construct
result in a 7- to 10-year process.
1:59:12 PM
CHAIR P. WILSON opined that any time federal government funds
are used more hoops are required than if all state funds are
used. She stressed that practically all roads built in the
1970s need to be replaced, and thus there has to be a
prioritization.
2:00:05 PM
REPRESENTATIVE PETERSEN informed the committee that the Muldoon
interchange has experienced increased traffic and requires
finding a solution before there is a severe accident,
particularly in terms of winter weather road conditions. He
offered to help with finding a solution for the Muldoon
interchange.
REPRESENTATIVE GRUENBERG characterized the Muldoon interchange
as a top priority.
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN confirmed that the department is aware of
the issue with the Muldoon interchange. In fact, it's something
that the department is studying and has placed money in the 2012
budget for it. Thus far, it's been determined that it will be a
significantly expensive project. However, he mentioned that
there are some things that can be done in the interim to calm
some of the conflicts in the area.
2:02:44 PM
REPRESENTATIVE GRUENBERG suggested that it would be helpful for
the department to hold a local meeting that brings residents up-
to-date with the department's intention.
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN agreed to do so.
TERRY VRABEC, Deputy Commissioner, Department of Public Safety,
thanked the committee for its support with regard to the traffic
safety corridors. He related that the ABHP started in December
2008 and has been working on a very pro-active program with
education, enforcement, and presence. Although there has been
an increase in enforcement and presence, he opined that
education is the most important aspect of [DPS's efforts].
2:07:39 PM
LIEUTENANT TOM DUNN, Deputy Commander, Alaska Bureau of Highway
Patrol, Alaska State Troopers, Department of Public Safety,
began by echoing Commissioner Luiken's remark that success
depends upon strong partnerships with various governmental
agencies as well as the public to improve the state's
transportation infrastructure. He then began his presentation
by informing the committee that the Alaska Strategic Highway
Safety Plan was adopted in September 2007. The plan is a
statewide, comprehensive, and data driven effort that addresses
highway safety issues unique to Alaska and its highway system.
The idea is to have a comprehensive guide that identifies the
issues for which objectives and strategies are developed to
resolve the issues within the resources available. The plan, he
further related, was designed to be fluid and long living in
order to adjust and grow with the needs of the state. He
informed the committee that in 2007 DPS had the following three
areas of emphasis: special users, driver behavior, and
roadways. In 2011, the plan has grown such that the group
decided that there should be sound and direct influence from
leadership, which has resulted in the top layer [of emphasis]
being the Governor's Road-Side Safety Advisory Committee
(GRSAC). He explained that the idea with [GRSAC] was for lead
folks within the departments to take an active role, obtain
information from the emphasis area groups, collect information,
develop strategies and objectives, and present plans to GRSAC.
The hope, he related, was to have sound and effective plans.
2:11:03 PM
LIEUTENANT DUNN, in response to Chair P. Wilson, explained that
for each emphasis area there are various strategies upon which
there is focus. He clarified that DWLR stands for driving while
license revoked.
2:11:42 PM
REPRESENTATIVE GRUENBERG asked if GRSAC considers any
legislative or budgetary changes of which the legislature should
be aware.
LIEUTENANT DUNN explained that these are preliminary discussions
with regard to highway safety. These groups don't
control/discuss the budgetary aspect of this; they just develop
ideas to address [highway safety problems].
CHAIR P. WILSON suggested that letting the legislature know if
during discussions legislative involvement/action would be
helpful.
LIEUTENANT DUNN agreed to do so. He added that essentially the
idea with the GRSAC structure is to have a chain of command such
that GRSAC can take ideas/suggestions to higher levels, such as
the legislature.
REPRESENTATIVE GRUENBERG interjected that with the 90-day
session the legislature needs to obtain information quicker,
particularly in the second session of a legislature.
2:13:40 PM
LIEUTENANT DUNN said that there will be more meetings and he
will be sure to mention this to all those involved. Returning
to his presentation, he directed attention to the slide entitled
"4E's", which was mentioned earlier. He opined that the traffic
safety plan hinges on the 4E's: engineering - DOT&PF,
enforcement - DPS, education - DOT&PF and DPS, and emergency
services. With the improvement of medical services and
training, equipment, and locations there is success in reducing
fatal collisions due to better responses. As the process
continues and the various entities work together more, the more
effective the organization will be. Ultimately, the goal is to
reduce fatality counts to zero. He then informed the committee
that ABHP was established December 1, 2008. As mentioned by
Commissioner Luiken, ABHP was established in partnership with
DOT&PF, which provided essential funding. The Alaska Bureau of
Highway Patrol is: "A statewide traffic law enforcement team
safeguarding the wellbeing of everyone through proactive
leadership, sustained high visibility and dedicated enforcement,
education, and technology."
2:16:30 PM
LIEUTENANT DUNN directed attention to the slide entitled
"Current Positions", which provides a chart of the current
structure of DPS. He pointed out that there are three teams
throughout the state, with the largest being in the Matanuska-
Susitna Valley. The notion was that as there were resource
needs elsewhere, the larger team could be separated to address
those. "We're trying to be as most effective as we can with the
resources we have," he remarked. The second largest team is
located in the Kenai Peninsula, which is a vast region. Two of
the troopers out of the Girdwood region are dedicated to the
Seward Highway traffic safety corridor. The smallest team is
the Fairbanks team. In total the Alaska Bureau of Highway
Patrol consists of 26 commissioned positions and 2 commercial
motor vehicle positions. The commercial motor vehicle
enforcement recognized the opportunity to partner with ABHP. He
then directed attention to the slide entitled "4 Safety
Corridors".
2:18:21 PM
CHAIR P. WILSON noticed that the traffic safety corridor on the
Sterling Highway is only 10 miles long and therefore she
questioned whether that stretch of road has lots of curves.
LIEUTENANT DUNN confirmed that the traffic safety corridor on
the Sterling Highway does have curves. For whatever reason, the
data relates that the designated 10-mile stretch is where most
problems occur. In further response to Chair P. Wilson,
Lieutenant Dunn related that the [data collection] system is
moving from a paper system to an electronic system. However,
it's not "quite there" yet. The data along with mapping from
DOT&PF has been extremely helpful in pinpointing problems from a
traffic safety standpoint and focusing resources more
effectively to address the concern.
2:19:50 PM
MR. VRABEC pointed out that mile 92 of the Sterling Highway is
the beginning of the city limits of Soldotna, which is a mix of
residential, business, and visitor traffic. Therefore, the 10-
mile traffic corridor has a lot of traffic.
2:20:23 PM
REPRESENTATIVE GRUENBERG suggested that perhaps there could be
federal funds available to gather the necessary data to make
preliminary determinations regarding what's occurring.
LIEUTENANT DUNN said some federal funds through the TraCS
program have been used to obtain electronic information quicker.
2:21:16 PM
LIEUTENANT DUNN continued with the slide entitled "2009 Seward
Highway" and highlighted that there were six crashes and eight
fatalities on the Seward Highway in 2009. Two of the crashes
were due to driver behavior and the remaining crashes were
suspected to be due to impairments of some type. Resolution of
some of these cases takes some time, and therefore he said he
doesn't always have access to or the ability to disclose all of
the information. In 2009 there were no fatalities on the Knik
Goose Bay traffic safety corridor, the Parks Highway traffic
safety corridor, and the Sterling Highway traffic safety
corridor. However, there were three fatalities on the Seward
Highway traffic safety corridor in 2009. In 2010 there were
four crashes and four fatalities on the Seward Highway. Within
the traffic safety corridors there were no fatalities, save two
in the Seward Highway traffic safety corridor in 2010. He
highlighted that 2010 was the lowest statewide fatal collision
rate of the state. In 2011 there have been, to date, two
crashes and two fatalities within the Seward Highway traffic
safety corridor. In 2011 there were also two fatalities within
the Knik Goose Bay traffic safety corridor, one in the Parks
Highway traffic safety corridor, one in the Sterling Highway
traffic safety corridor, and two within the Seward Highway
traffic safety corridor. Therefore, there has been an increase,
as pointed out by Commissioner Luiken. Lieutenant Dunn related
that it has become evident, through DOT&PF's 30 years' worth of
data, that about every seven years there appears to be a spike
[in the number of fatalities], although he couldn't provide a
good reason why. Still, as DOT&PF related, overall there has
been a regression in the number of serious injuries and
fatalities, even while vehicle traffic has increased.
Therefore, although it's important to review the annual data
it's also important to review the data over a longer term. He
then directed attention to the slide with the chart relating the
statewide fatalities, fatal crashes, alcohol-related fatal
crashes, and percent alcohol related fatal crashes per year.
2:25:33 PM
CHAIR P. WILSON asked if it's typical for there to be an
increase in fatal collisions during the holidays when people are
drinking more.
LIEUTENANT DUNN replied no.
2:26:02 PM
LIEUTENANT DUNN, returning to his presentation, told the
committee that the data in 2010 and 2011 is preliminary and
subject to change. The current data relates that in 2010, there
were 56 fatalities in 52 fatal crashes, which reflects a 12.5
percent decrease in fatalities and 11.9 percent decrease in
fatal crashes from 2009. Furthermore, the number of alcohol-
related fatal crashes in 2010 decreased by 22.7 percent from
2009. Again, he reminded the committee that the aforementioned
figures are subject to change depending upon the data that
becomes available from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System
(FARS). Returning to Chair P. Wilson's question regarding
alcohol use during the holidays, Lieutenant Dunn confirmed that
there is an increase in the use of alcohol during the holidays.
However, in Alaska the highest months for fatalities appear to
be June, July, August, and September when there is more volume
on the highways. The aforementioned is related in the chart
entitled "Alaska Traffic Fatalities Updated 09/19/2011".
2:27:55 PM
CHAIR P. WILSON expressed interest in knowing how much of an
increase in vehicle traffic there is in the summer.
LIEUTENANT DUNN offered to work with DOT&PF to obtain that data.
2:28:15 PM
REPRESENTATIVE PRUITT inquired as to whether there is any way to
determine how much of the increased vehicle traffic is from
outside visitors versus Alaskans.
LIEUTENANT DUNN said that he doesn't have such data.
REPRESENTATIVE PRUITT commented that this year there seemed to
be more traffic on the roads, including Alaskans.
LIEUTENANT DUNN offered that it was a nice weather year and
people were getting out and enjoying it.
2:29:38 PM
LIEUTENANT DUNN, continuing his presentation, directed attention
to the chart entitled "Fatalities Not Wearing Seatbelts", which
relates information from 1994-2011. The chart relates that as
seatbelt use has increased fatalities have decreased. Data also
relates that seatbelt use is increasing and fatalities of those
wearing seatbelts have decreased. With regard to an earlier
question, Lieutenant Dunn opined that new technology on vehicles
is helping reduce fatalities. However, there are ways to get
around the technology that people do and only education and
active enforcement can be used to thwart the aforementioned.
Lieutenant Dunn said that he didn't want society to hang its hat
on technology as there is always a level of self-accountability.
CHAIR P. WILSON asked if the legislation allowing law
enforcement to stop drivers for possible violations of the
primary seatbelt law is helping.
LIEUTENANT DUNN replied yes, adding that law enforcement does
actively engage in seatbelt enforcement as it's taken seriously.
As people learn and grow, there seems to be more compliance with
seatbelt use.
2:31:56 PM
REPRESENTATIVE PETERSEN congratulated DPS on its ripple-effect
advertisements that illustrate that the effects of an individual
killed because he/she didn't wear a seatbelt reach beyond that
individual. He encouraged continued use of such advertisements.
2:32:21 PM
REPRESENTATIVE GRUENBERG recalled the update of the kid seatbelt
law and asked if any data has been collected regarding its
effect.
LIEUTENANT DUNN replied no, but from his own experience he said
that he sees more kids buckled than in the past. He offered to
obtain data on kid seatbelt use.
REPRESENTATIVE GRUENBERG said he would like to review any of the
data collected related to the use of seatbelts by children. He
opined that data regarding whether seatbelt use makes a
difference [in fatalities] is of interest to legislators and the
public.
LIEUTENANT DUNN agreed to begin collecting the data and
providing it to the committee as soon as possible.
2:33:48 PM
MR. VRABEC interjected that the topic for the media yesterday
was child safety seats, which he opined would be a good
presentation.
2:34:08 PM
REPRESENTATIVE PRUITT commended the departments for their work
and collaboration. He then inquired as to the feedback with
regard to education.
LIEUTENANT DUNN related that he is receiving positive feedback,
which he believes makes a huge difference because it impacts
behavior before an incident. The success with seatbelt use is a
classic example of saturated education with enforcement.
2:35:31 PM
LIEUTENANT DUNN, in response to Representative Gruenberg,
related that there's a 50:50 split regarding whether people want
to be allowed to use hands free cell phones [while driving] or
to ban cell phone use [while driving] entirely.
MR. VRABEC interjected that many of those present today would
likely agree that although they consider the use of cell phones
while driving distracting, they still find the ability to use
them helpful.
CHAIR P. WILSON offered that there are also a certain amount of
folks who just don't want to be told what to do, regardless of
whether they believe it's the correct thing or safe thing to do.
2:38:29 PM
REPRESENTATIVE PRUITT inquired as to how successful law
enforcement is in enforcing situations in which an individual is
pulled over due to the distracted driving because of cell phone
use.
LIEUTENANT DUNN clarified that currently drivers are allowed to
use their cell phones while driving. Therefore, at present if
law enforcement identifies a safety risk due to the driver using
his/her cell phone, the office will initiate contact via an
investigative stop to determine the situation. If the driver's
actions do endanger the welfare of others, there are laws
addressing that; if action is necessary, law enforcement will
take it. However, he opined that most situations can be
remedied through roadside education. Lieutenant Dunn said that
identified safety risks cause law enforcement to take action in
order to avoid an accident.
2:40:12 PM
LIEUTENANT DUNN, continuing his presentation, stated that
enforcement and education are what's being used to reduce
fatalities and serious injury collisions in Alaska. He then
directed attention to the slides entitled "Citations 2009" and
"Citations 2010", which relate that law enforcement is active in
the traffic safety corridors and that activity increased in 2010
as did the staff. That activity, he reiterated, is to reduce
the number of serious collisions and fatalities. He moved on to
the slide entitled "Citations 2011", which relates data through
September 22, 2011 and relates another increase, although it's
fairly consistent with the 2009 and 2010 citations in the
traffic safety corridors. He noted that the citations aren't
for a particular type of citation issued, but rather for all
citations issued. However, he noted that typically the highest
issued citation category is for speeding. Although a lot of the
speeding citations are for speeding 9 miles per hour over the
limit rather than the higher amount that the driver was likely
speeding, law enforcement is trying to find a balance [between
enforcement and deterring behavior] while achieving safety.
2:42:58 PM
REPRESENTATIVE GRUENBERG observed that the citations from 2010
to 2011 seem to have increased for all the traffic safety
corridors except the Seward Highway traffic safety corridor. He
acknowledged that the information for 2011 is only through
September 22, 2011.
LIEUTENANT DUNN remarked that although the 2011 information is
not for the full year, much effort has been placed on the Seward
Highway traffic safety corridor. This year there have only been
two fatalities so far on the Seward Highway traffic safety
corridor, which he believes is making a difference.
REPRESENTATIVE GRUENBERG pointed out that the citations for the
Knik Goose Bay Road traffic safety corridor is also down.
However, the number of citations for the Parks Highway and
Sterling Highway traffic safety corridors has increased
significantly. He then inquired as to whether there is a
difference in enforcement in these areas.
LIEUTENANT DUNN related that the Alaska Bureau of Highway Patrol
shifts its resources as much as it can to address problematic
areas. For example, after observing the increases in the Seward
Highway traffic safety corridor, the bureau increased its
efforts in that area. As a result of shifting areas of focus,
the number of [citations] will shift as well.
2:45:28 PM
REPRESENTATIVE PRUITT pointed out that although the Seward
Highway traffic safety corridor citations have decreased, the
overall Seward Highway citations have increased.
LIEUTENANT DUNN highlighted that there is a significant penalty
for violations in traffic safety corridors, which he believes is
a powerful tool to curb behavior in those problem areas.
2:46:05 PM
CHAIR P. WILSON asked if more troopers would be helpful.
LIEUTENANT DUNN replied yes, but added that there will never be
enough troopers to police everyone at once. Therefore, there
needs to be a level of community partnership and self-
accountability in order to achieve success.
2:46:32 PM
LIEUTENANT DUNN, continuing his presentation, moved on to the
slide entitled "Education". He stressed that he believes in
influencing behavior prior to an incident happening, which can
only be achieved through education. He reviewed the various
education efforts and those that are coupled with the media.
2:47:14 PM
CHAIR P. WILSON relayed, from a testifier who had to leave, the
concern that Alaska's 16-year-olds obtain their driver's license
without receiving driver's education. Therefore, this testifier
expressed his desire to have driver's education returned to
schools.
LIEUTENANT DUNN said that he doesn't have a personal opinion on
requiring driver's education in schools other than that
education is always good. However, he recalled from the
Strategic Traffic Safety meetings that studies have shown that
the results of driver's education in comparison to the cost
don't balance. He confirmed that the public in Alaska has
expressed interest in returning driver's education to the
schools.
2:48:13 PM
REPRESENTATIVE PETERSEN told the committee that the issue he has
heard from education administrators is the liability of having
driver's education back in the curriculum, and therefore he
didn't believe it would be returned. He then expressed interest
in students having more hours of driving with parents in various
road conditions.
LIEUTENANT DUNN related his understanding that the graduated
driver's license program requires parental confirmation that the
student performed a certain amount of hours driving in various
road conditions.
2:50:06 PM
LIEUTENANT DUNN then played the ripple effect videos, which
provided the committee with a glimpse of the type of
advertisements the departments are putting forward. He
emphasized the need for drivers to wear seatbelts, which saves
lives as the data illustrates. The ABHP is also discussing
alcohol/drug use while driving, obedience to traffic rules,
headlight use, self-accountability, importance of rest, and a
partnership with law enforcement to reduce serious injuries and
fatal collisions.
2:55:32 PM
CHAIR P. WILSON recalled when she was an EMT and that those
involved in accidents who didn't wear a seatbelt were almost
always left in a worse situation than those who wore a seatbelt.
She also recalled that summer visitors, who are accustomed to
driving until its dark, didn't realize that it doesn't get dark
in Alaska until much later and would fall asleep at the wheel.
2:56:36 PM
REPRESENTATIVE GRUENBERG surmised that the medical community
would like to be involved in this education campaign.
LIEUTENANT DUNN agreed, adding that many private stakeholders
have approached the ABHP regarding partnering with them on
educational campaigns. As folks reach out to the bureau, it's
trying to grow and foster those relationships in an effort to
influence behavior.
2:57:42 PM
REPRESENTATIVE PETERSEN related a possible advertisement with
regard to falling asleep at the wheel in Alaska in which tag
team driving is suggested.
LIEUTENANT DUNN remarked that the aforementioned is a good idea
as the bureau has been trying to educate the public while
offering an easy and attainable solution.
REPRESENTATIVE GRUENBERG noted that there have been legislative
efforts to mandate the use of headlights in Alaska.
LIEUTENANT DUNN related the bureau's belief in headlight use.
MR. VRABEC relayed the department's support for the headlight
law and the need to use headlights at all times and places.
LIEUTENANT DUNN mentioned that it's important to recognize that
even on the brightest days, it's easier to see a vehicle with
its headlights illuminated and provides better safety.
3:01:24 PM
LIEUTENANT DUNN continued with the slide entitled "Specific
Outreach Efforts". He informed the committee that ABHP conducts
a minimum of two driver educational presentations in Fairbanks,
Soldotna, and the Mat-Su Valley. The topics of the
presentations include impaired driving, speeding, aggressive
driving, seatbelts, and/or distracted and drowsy driving each
year. These educational presentations have brought forth a
tremendous response from students, parents, partners, and the
school district. The ABHP also conducts a minimum of two
trainings, Drug Impairment Training for Educational
Professionals (DITEP), each year. He explained that during
DITEP drug recognition professionals teach education
professionals how to identify drug impairment in order to notify
the appropriate people prior to the student getting in the car.
The ABHP conducts a minimum of five Advanced Roadside Impaired
Driving Enforcement (ARIDE) courses for law enforcement agencies
each year. These courses help frontline officers to identify
roadside impairment and take appropriate action. The ARIDE
program has been successful. Lieutenant Dunn reiterated ABHP's
outreach efforts to establish a firm partnership with the
communities it serves and the other agencies with which it
works. Moving on to the slide entitled "Effective Partner
Relations DOT/AHSO", he emphasized that all of the partners have
been wonderful. He then informed the committee that during the
summer of 2011, DOT&PF and DPS installed headlight signs along
the four designated safety corridors based on the 2010 Safety
Corridor Audit. The purpose of using headlights is to maximize
the lives saved at the least public cost as is the installation
of centerline rumble strips in traffic safety corridors.
3:05:16 PM
LIEUTENANT DUNN then directed attention to the photograph that
highlights the various signage including the REDDI signs, half
mileposts, and headlight signs. He acknowledged that originally
REDDI focused on reporting "drunk drivers" rather than
"dangerous drivers," which is a broader focus. It's difficult
to know whether the calls for "dangerous drivers" are due to
alcohol involvement or distraction until the individual is
stopped. He acknowledged that the signs encourage people to
call about dangerous drivers, and ABHP encourages callers to
pull over or have a passenger call. Lieutenant Dunn opined that
the REDDI program is working and has been effective. Continuing
on to the slide entitled "Special Event Enforcement", he
reviewed the various efforts in place, including the national
enforcement crackdowns, Saturday night blues, Alaska Strategic
Traffic Enforcement Partnership (ASTEP), Arctic Man Event,
Memorial Day Enforcement, Fourth of July Enforcement, Deltana
Fair Traffic Enforcement, Tanana Valley Fair Traffic
Enforcement, and Alaska State Fair Traffic Enforcement.
Essentially wherever there is an expected or past increase in
traffic, ABHP will try to be present in order to reduce overall
incidents on the highway system.
3:09:09 PM
LIEUTENANT DUNN, continuing the presentation, directed attention
to the slide entitled "ABHP Statewide Focus". The ABHP, echoing
his earlier comments, is a statewide effort that will shift its
resources to wherever they are needed. The ABHP works to
maintain high visibility to deter dangerous driving behavior.
The aforementioned is most recently evident with the shift in
resources to the Sterling Highway to address difficulties
experienced there. He relayed reports that troopers were seen
every 20-25 miles. Still, there were fatalities, which
highlights that enforcement alone isn't the solution.
Lieutenant Dunn then moved on to the slide entitled "Short
Term", which relates that the following goals have been
achieved: direct assignment of two ABHP to Girdwood; secure
RADAR speed trailers for statewide use; secure crash data
retrieval (CDR) systems for Fairbanks, Mat-Su, and Soldotna
ABHP; and secure braking meter systems for Fairbanks, Mat-Su,
and Soldotna ABHP teams. He explained that CDR systems are
computers that plug into automobiles' computers after accidents
to determine what was occurring with the automobile prior to a
collision. The aforementioned will allow more accurate
reporting information. He then explained that the secure
braking meter systems allow troopers to perform a road test such
that the trooper can determine the surface condition of the
highway at a specific time. Those short-term goals that have
begun are as follows: train ABHP total station operators in
accident reconstruction; identify updated 3D accident mapping
systems for improved scene investigations; and identify updated
hand-held LIDAR units for improved stationary enforcement. He
noted that these hand-held LIDAR units now have video capability
as well as the ability to calculate the distance between two
automobiles. These units would be an effective tool in reducing
collisions. Those goals remaining are as follows: fill ABHP
vacancies, mandatory headlight legislation, aggressive driving
legislation, and ongoing traffic regulation review (13AAC).
With regard to aggressive driving legislation, Lieutenant Dunn
explained that of the 11 states with such laws, most define
"aggressive driving" as speeding coupled with one to two other
specified violations. Arizona has the longest standing and most
successful aggressive driving law and it's based on speed and a
combination of passing and/or following too close offenses. He
then directed attention to the slide entitled "Long Term" and
related that ABHP will continue to work with the Alaska Highway
Safety Office for grant applications for funding of ABHP through
2013 and 2014. He also pointed out that ABHP is in the process
of evaluating how it will continue to meet its mission in the
future. The ABHP is also evaluating the use of photo RADAR.
Lower 48 data has shown a reduction in the volume of collisions
when technology has been introduced. Since why and how the
aforementioned is being accomplished is unknown, ABHP wants to
evaluate it as well as sustainable aerial traffic enforcement.
3:14:31 PM
CHAIR P. WILSON recalled when she was driving a friend's
automobile in Iowa a few years ago. After turning off a main
road, it was several miles before there was a sign that
specified the speed on that road. Her friend was later sent a
photo radar ticket for speeding on the stretch of road that
Chair P. Wilson had to drive for several miles before there was
a sign that specified the speed limit. Therefore, Chair P.
Wilson stressed the need for there to be appropriate signage for
speed limits.
LIEUTENANT DUNN agreed, and added that appropriate
implementation of such a program would be vital to the success
of the program. Although photo radar is successful elsewhere
and is worthy of review, it needs to be addressed in a slow and
methodical manner.
3:16:14 PM
REPRESENTATIVE PRUITT inquired as to whether the implementation
of photo radar would require legislation or is the department
already authorized to implement it.
MR. VRABEC recalled that the last implementation of photo radar
went through the courts.
3:17:17 PM
CAPTAIN RANDAHL HAHN, Commander, Alaska Bureau of
Investigations, Department of Public Safety, related that photo
radar is only on the list because it's technology that's
available and is being used in other locations. He emphasized
that photo radar needs to be reviewed in terms of thinking
outside of the box in order to reach the goal. He further
emphasized that photo radar is in its conceptual phase.
3:17:58 PM
REPRESENTATIVE GRUENBERG recalled that in 1985 folks who passed
school buses couldn't be prosecuted by merely having their
license plate number because it couldn't be proven who was
actually driving at the time. Ultimately, Alaska followed a
Minnesota law that provided that if a vehicle owner of a vehicle
whose license plate number was identified as passing a bus could
prove he/she was not driving, the citation to the vehicle owner
could be dismissed and issued to the driver.
MR. VRABEC recalled the aforementioned situation. He further
recalled that law enforcement's direction at that time was to
obtain an interview with the owner. Although the aforementioned
is a little bit more work for law enforcement, it's doable, he
opined.
REPRESENTATIVE GRUENBERG asked whether there were problems
within the courts or was it effective.
MR. VRABEC confirmed that there were some problems. However, he
opined that it was probably more effective than not and often
law enforcement found out who was driving.
3:21:46 PM
REPRESENTATIVE PETERSEN related that there was much public
opposition to photo radar, which he partly attributed to the
change from the original strict use in school zones during
specific times to other times. Ultimately, the public
opposition resulted in the law being overturned.
3:22:40 PM
CHAIR P. WILSON thanked the presenters and opened public
testimony, but no one was present to testify.
3:23:09 PM
REPRESENTATIVE GRUENBERG related his thanks to the chair for
organizing the meeting.
3:23:16 PM
CHAIR P. WILSON encouraged the presenters to contact the
legislature for help when needed. She then inquired as to
whether any of the presenters felt that the night time
delineation has been effective.
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN answered that it's too early to provide
feedback on its effectiveness and suggested that it would be a
couple of years before there is enough data to review its
effectiveness. He then related that he has received quite a few
comments from those driving between Wasilla and Anchorage
regarding the lighting project up to the Palmer Flats.
CHAIR P. WILSON mentioned that in Juneau, between downtown and
the valley there is a stretch of unlit road. She noted that the
problems with unlit roads are of particular concern in areas
with moose. She then asked if there has been any review of
planting plants in the medians that don't attract moose.
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN responded that he doesn't have any specific
data, but did confirm that department staff is reviewing what
kinds of species of plants will discourage moose browse. He
related that the department will continue its efforts to keep
the brush mowed back from the road.
3:27:50 PM
CHAIR P. WILSON inquired as to the results of roundabouts being
used in the state.
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN said that although the jury is still out on
that, the department believes they are incredibly effective
traffic calming facilities. Roundabouts keep traffic moving and
reduce the potential for serious injury and fatal crashes.
There is data from the nation as well as the world that
roundabouts are much safer for pedestrians as well. In response
to Representative Petersen, Commissioner Luiken confirmed that
roundabouts increase the traffic flow at those intersections
with roundabouts.
3:29:31 PM
REPRESENTATIVE GRUENBERG recalled that a [municipal] roundabout
had recently been installed in the Anchorage area. He
encouraged the department to obtain comments/feedback from those
driving in the area of a roundabout.
COMMISSIONER LUIKEN noted that since it was on a municipal road,
the department was likely not very involved in it. However, in
the major roundabout installation projects in which the
department was involved, there was significant public
interaction before, during, and after the installation.
REPRESENTATIVE GRUENBERG mentioned that he has driven in Europe
where there are many roundabouts, which he considered a great
idea.
3:32:42 PM
CHAIR P. WILSON asked whether the areas already targeted for an
increase to four lanes have occurred.
MR. THOMAS told the committee that there are projects to
construct four lanes in the design stage now. The information
regarding which projects are in what stage is reported in an
annual audit that also includes questions posed. The 2009 and
2010 audit can be found on DOT&PF's website and the 2011 audit
is being compiled now.
3:35:06 PM
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business before the committee, the House
Transportation Standing Committee meeting was adjourned at 3:35
p.m.
| Document Name | Date/Time | Subjects |
|---|---|---|
| House Transportation Safety Corridors Final.pptx |
HTRA 10/6/2011 1:00:00 PM |
Trans Safety |
| 2011 Legislative Hearing Seward Highway DPS.ppt |
HTRA 10/6/2011 1:00:00 PM |
traffic safety |