Seamless Traffic Control Design and ROW Permits for a Downtown Austin Tree Installation

Orchestrating Traffic Control for a Landmark Project in Downtown Austin

TrafCon Services, a leader in temporary traffic control plan design and permitting in Austin, Texas, excels in navigating complex projects. Specializing in safe, efficient, and cost-effective work zones, TrafCon partners with general contractors, engineering firms, and developers to deliver unparalleled service.

One such project involved the replacement of a large oak tree in a private courtyard on the East side of Lavaca St. in downtown Austin. This ambitious endeavor required closing multiple lanes to accommodate a crane and other equipment, highlighting TrafCon’s expertise in negotiating with the city for work hours, necessary space for constructability, and project duration.

Comprehensive Traffic Control Plan and ROW Permits Overview

Detailed Client Profile: Rand Construction and Enco Consulting Partnership

Rand Construction, a general contractor known for tackling intricate projects, led this venture. Recognizing the challenges posed by the tree's size and the urban setting, Rand Construction collaborated with Enco Consulting, a trusted civil engineering firm frequently partnering with TrafCon Services.

Prime Location: Navigating Traffic on Lavaca St. in Downtown Austin

The project took place on Lavaca St., a crucial arterial roadway in downtown Austin, situated between W. 6th St. and W. 7th St. Lavaca St. is a busy corridor, accommodating approximately 4,000 cars daily, a dedicated bus lane, and a bike lane, making traffic management a critical aspect of the project.

Address: 200 W. 6^th St. Austin TX 78701

Traffic Control Plan By: TrafCon Services

Seamless Collaboration: Coordinating with COA ROWMAN, CapMetro, and Signals Department

TrafCon's role involved extensive coordination with various entities:

• City of Austin Right of Way Management Approval Network (ROWMAN) to secure the necessary temporary traffic control plan approvals and TURP permit.
• CapMetro to temporarily close the bus lane and divert into the travel lane.
• Signals Department to manage traffic signal adjustments. Additionally, TrafCon resolved conflicts with other permit holders in the area, ensuring the project’s smooth execution. The project was initially planned for a Saturday morning. However, due to an unforeseen hurdle and another permit holder needing the right-of-way, TrafCon negotiated with the permit holder, and the COA allowing the project to proceed on the following Sunday preventing further delays.

Strategic Approach and Innovative Solutions for Traffic Management

Traffic Control Plan Development

• Traffic Flow Analysis:
• Current Traffic Conditions: Analyzed existing traffic patterns, volumes, and peak hours.
• Impact Assessment: Evaluated the project’s impact on traffic flow, identifying potential problem areas.
• Traffic Control Devices:
• Signage: Specified types and locations of signs for guiding drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.
• Barricades and Barriers: Detailed the placement and types of physical barriers to protect work zones and redirect traffic.
• Traffic Signals: Included operational details of temporary traffic signals.
• Communication Plan:
• Stakeholder Coordination: Communicated with local authorities, emergency services, public transport operators, and affected businesses and residents.
• Compliance and Permitting:
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensured the plan adhered to local, state, and federal regulations.
• Permits and Approvals: Secured necessary permits and documented approvals from relevant authorities.
• Detailed Maps and Diagrams:
• Visual Aids: Provided detailed maps and diagrams illustrating traffic control measures, detour routes, and placement of traffic control devices.
• Work Zone Layout: Included a clear depiction of the work zone and surrounding areas.

Cutting-Edge Tools and Technology: Utilizing AutoCAD for Precision Plans

TrafCon Services utilized the latest version of AutoCAD to create quality plans that were printable on 11x17 paper, drawn to scale, clear, legible, and detailed. These plans adhered to the standards set forth in the Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (TMUTCD) and the City of Austin transportation criteria manual. 

Efficient Project Timeline: From Plan Preparation to Permit Approval

The project timeline included:

• One week to prepare the traffic control plan (TCP) for review.
• Two weeks for plan approval.
• One week for permit application submission and approval.

Key Benefits: Proactive Client Collaboration for Seamless Plan Approval

TrafCon Services collaborates with clients before designing the plan to ensure they receive the necessary space to complete their work efficiently. This proactive approach guarantees the plan’s approval by the City of Austin (COA).

Overcoming Challenges: Tailored Traffic Control Plan and Secure ROW Permits

TrafCon Services meticulously crafted a tailored traffic control plan and secured ROW permits for the installation of a new tree on Lavaca St. Partnering with Enco Consulting, a highly respected engineering firm, ensured precision and excellence at every step.

Rand Construction, hired by the property owner to replace the tree, enlisted Enco Consulting to assist with the permitting process, who in turn engaged TrafCon Services to design the traffic control plan and assist with obtaining the necessary ROW permit.

Through effective negotiation, meticulous planning, and seamless collaboration,TrafCon Services delivered a successful project that met the client’s needs while maintaining safety and minimizing disruption.

Get in Touch with TrafCon Services Today

If you need expert traffic control design, planning, and permitting for your next project, look no further than TrafCon Services. Our team of professionals is dedicated to ensuring your work zones are safe, efficient, and compliant with all regulations.

Contact us today to discuss how we can support your project and provide the seamless traffic control solutions you need. Reach out to TrafCon Services now and experience the difference our expertise can make!