Schwab-Eaton completed design and construction services for the intersection of K-18 highway and Miller Parkway/Davis Drive in western Manhattan, Kansas. Through-traffic on K-18 increased such that traffic signal warrants were met. Minor street drivers experienced significant delay and a reduction in safety during peak hours. The City of Manhattan selected Schwab-Eaton to determine the proposed improvements, complete the proposed design, and provide construction observation and support services. Schwab-Eaton held public information meetings, solicited community input, performed a detailed traffic study, and presented the project before the City Commission in order to determine the scope of improvements. A traffic signal was chosen over no-build and roundabout concepts.
Improvements included installation of a traffic signal and lighting equipment, pavement markings, traffic signage, and seeding. Turn lanes were evaluated and extended to accommodate the design traffic queues. Due to the high speeds on K-18, advanced video detection was used to eliminate dilemma zone impacts for K-18 motorists. Advanced warning signs with flashing beacons were coordinated to flash only when K-18 drivers must stop. This innovative strategy was used to provide advanced warning to motorists approaching the intersection located on both horizontal and vertical curves.