Initial ramp meter run-through calls for more testing

By BRAD COOPER

The Kansas City Star

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Ramp meters are almost here, Kansas City.

Highway crews today took the wrapping off traffic signals posted on the entrance ramps to Interstate 435 between Metcalf Avenue in Overland Park and the Grandview Triangle.

The green-and-red traffic signals — also know as ramp meters — regulate the flow of traffic onto the interstate by breaking up clusters of four and five cars battling to enter at once.

Engineers have canceled a full run-through tonight after initial tests didn’t go well this afternoon. They expect to conduct more testing Friday and make a final decision on start time by Monday afternoon.

“If there are any issues with the final testing, we’ll keep them dark until after Thanksgiving,” said Mark Sommerhauser, who’s leading the initiative for the highway departments in Kansas and Missouri.

“There could be hundreds of things that need to be adjusted and fixed,” Sommerhauser said.

The meters will operate only during rush hour and even then only when congestion reaches certain levels.

To reach Brad Cooper, call 816-234-7724 or send e-mail to bcooper@kcstar.com.

Posted on Thu, Nov. 12, 2009 03:36 PM

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