713-627-3200
Operational Improvements and Congestion Management Questionnaire
Project Information
| Agency Name | Harris County Engineering |
| Project Title | Fairmont Parkway Accesss Management and Safety Improvement Project |
| Facility/Street/Highway | Fairmont Parkway |
| Limits | Allen Genoa to Broadway St |
| Description | Project includes a safety study design, and implementation of recommended access management and safety improvements. |
| Timeframe | Medium Term (6-10 Years) |
| Estimated Cost | $60,000,000.00 |
Investment Category-Focused Criteria
No
1.0 – 1.25
The current congestion on the Fairmont Parkway project segment is 18%. The Travel Time Index (TTI) - 1.21 - and congestion percentages were calculated using metrics obtained from the StreetLight Insight platform. The current TTI for the corridor was calculated by dividing free-flow speed by the average speed during peak hours of congestion; congestion percentage was calculated by finding the free-flow factor (average speed at peak hour divided by the free flow speed) and subtracting it from 1.
1.0 – 1.25
The following describes the estimated congestion after the project is implemented and describes the methodology and data used to calculate the TTI after project implementation. Upon project implementation, anticipated congestion is 13%. The TTI decreases from 1.21 to 1.14. The corridor was modeled using Synchro modeling software to determine the full impact of signal and intersection improvements on level of service, average speed, and congestion. The same methodology is then being used to calculate the reduction in TTI for the project.
The Fairmont Parkway Reconstruction Project proposes several improvements and management strategies to reduce traffic congestion and improve traffic flow. Key proposals include: Roadway Widening and Pavement Thicknesses: The plan includes widening the roadway to accommodate three 12-foot through lanes and an 11-foot exclusive right-turn lane at various locations (added capacity). This widening ranges from 7 feet to 25 feet. Pavement sections are designed based on multiple criteria, including anticipated truck traffic and an expected design life of 30 years. Expanding the road to accommodate more lanes allows a higher traffic volume to flow smoothly. This includes adding through lanes and exclusive right-turn lanes at various locations. More lanes mean less congestion, especially during peak hours, as vehicles have more space to move and are less likely to be stuck in bottlenecks. Bridge Improvements: Proposals for improving and replacing bridges are detailed. For example, the twin bridges at Willow Springs Bayou should be removed and replaced. The report also discusses the preservation and restriping of UPRR Overpass Bridges and the widening of existing Spring Gully and Big Island Slough Bridges. Upgrading and replacing bridges, such as the twin bridges at Willow Springs Bayou, ensures these structures can handle increased traffic volumes and not become choke points. Improving bridge capacity is critical in maintaining smooth traffic flow across waterways and other obstacles. Pedestrian and Bicycle Infrastructure: Improvements include constructing sidewalks along Fairmont Parkway's north and south right-of-way (ROW), extending a 10-foot shared-use path, and considering bike trails underneath new bridges. The plan also involves improving pedestrian crossings and signals. By constructing sidewalks, shared-use paths, and bike trails, the project encourages alternative modes of transportation, potentially reducing the number of vehicles on the road. Additionally, improving pedestrian crossings and signals can enhance safety and efficiency at intersections, further reducing congestion. Drainage Impact Analysis and Mitigation: The project addresses drainage issues by cutting and regrading roadside ditches, constructing earthen and concrete line channels, and installing storm sewer boxes under proposed roadway widening. Proper drainage solutions prevent roadway flooding and related closures or slowdowns. Efficient drainage systems ensure the road remains passable during heavy rains, avoiding congestion caused by water-related issues. Traffic Signal Modifications: To accommodate the widened road and new lanes, modifications to existing traffic signals, including reconfiguration and adding pedestrian signal poles, are proposed. Adjusting traffic signals to accommodate the widened road and new lanes can improve traffic flow. Well-timed traffic signals synchronized to optimize vehicle movement can reduce waiting times at intersections and minimize stop-and-go traffic, a major contributor to congestion. The project may include the implementation of Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) technologies, which will enhance the operational efficiency and safety of the roadway. ITS technologies include dynamic message signs, traffic cameras, and real-time traffic monitoring and management systems. These technologies will provide real-time information to drivers, allowing them to make informed decisions about their routes and help mitigate congestion and delays. These measures collectively contribute to a more efficient and effective transportation system, directly addressing factors that cause congestion. By improving road capacity, bridge functionality, traffic signal operations, pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, and drainage systems, the Fairmont Parkway Reconstruction Project aims to reduce congestion and enhance overall traffic flow significantly.
No
Yes
Fairmont Parkway provides direct access to the evacuation route (Highway 146S and I-45) and to E Sam Houston Tollway S, the designated feeder to a hurricane evacuation route.
Other Investment Category Focused Criteria
No
The Fairmont Parkway Reconstruction Project is poised to improve regional goods movements with a range of strategic improvements, including widened lanes, enhanced road quality, and modernized bridges. The proposed project improvements will: - Widen the existing asphalt pavement to add a 12-foot lane in each direction. Additional lanes accommodate more traffic, alleviate congestion, and allow for smoother transport of goods, improving freight movement efficiency. - Repair the damaged roadway base and overlaying the entire roadway surface will enhance road quality and durability, reduce maintenance-related disruptions, and ensure a consistent flow of goods. - Modernize Willow Spring Bayou Bridges. The project study recommends improvements to Willow Spring Bayou Bridges to modernize them and ensure safe and reliable routes for heavy freight movement. - Widen existing Spring Gully and Big Island Slough Bridges. This will increase bridge capacity to handle larger traffic volumes, including commercial and freight vehicles, reducing bottlenecks. - Restripe pavement markings on the Union Pacific Railroad Overpass Bridges to provide three traffic lanes in each direction. Restriping pavement markings optimizes traffic flow by clearly defining lanes for improved navigation and safety, facilitating quicker goods transportation through critical junctions. Fairmont Parkway from E Beltway 8 to S Broadway St is designated a TxDOT Texas Highway Freight Network Facility on the TxDOT Texas Highway Freight Network Map. The H-GAC Regional Goods Map tools identify Fairmont Parkway as a Tier 1 Critical Urban Freight Corridor. It is included in the H-GAC "2023 Regional Goods Movement Final Report" on page 43, Table 3-7: Critical Corridors* for Freight Movement - Stakeholder Input. The Economic Alliance recommended widening, which Harris County addresses in the application.
The proposed Fairmont Parkway Reconstruction Project benefits high-growth areas in several ways: Accommodating Increased Traffic Demand: High-growth areas typically experience an increase in traffic volume as the population and number of businesses expand. The widening of Fairmont Parkway and the addition of lanes are designed to accommodate this increased demand, ensuring that the road infrastructure can handle the growing number of vehicles without becoming overly congested. This increased capacity is vital for alleviating congestion generated by new developments such as residential areas, retail stores, and warehouses. Supporting Economic Development: Improved transportation infrastructure is critical to supporting and sustaining economic growth. By enhancing road capacity and efficiency, the project makes the area more accessible and attractive for businesses. This can lead to new investments, job creation, and economic opportunities, which are essential for the prosperity of high-growth regions. Enhancing Quality of Life: In high-growth areas, the strain on existing infrastructure can lead to issues such as traffic congestion and safety concerns. The project addresses these issues by improving road safety, reducing travel times, and promoting alternative transportation modes like walking and cycling. These improvements contribute to a better quality of life for residents, making the area more desirable for current and prospective residents. Encouraging Sustainable Transportation Options: The project promotes healthier, more sustainable transportation options by including pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, such as sidewalks and shared-use paths, in the project. This is particularly important in high-growth areas, where the environmental impact of increased vehicle use can be significant. These improvements make the area safer for residents and shoppers and encourage a more pedestrian-friendly environment, which is beneficial for retail and other commercial areas. Future-Proofing Infrastructure: The project's design, which considers a 30-year lifespan and includes measures to address drainage and environmental concerns, ensures that the infrastructure is resilient and capable of supporting the area's needs as it continues to grow and develop. Improving Accessibility and Connectivity: Enhanced transportation infrastructure improves access and connectivity within the area and surrounding regions. This is crucial for high-growth areas, where new residential, commercial, and industrial developments require efficient access to various amenities and services. At the time of the Fairmont Parkway Improvements Phase 1 -Study Report completion in April 2022, the second phase of a new residential development, Parkway Trails subdivision, was under construction. The new subdivision has a new street "Woodward Drive" that is connected to the westbound of Fairmont Parkway between Red Bluff Road and Cunningham Drive. Improved connectivity is essential for the overall development and attractiveness of an area. The expanded roadway and improved infrastructure will facilitate the movement of freight and commercial vehicles, which is crucial for expanding warehouses and other freight generators. Efficient access is vital for businesses that rely on the transportation of goods, and improved road infrastructure supports this need. The Fairmont Parkway Reconstruction Project's proposed improvements are particularly beneficial for high-growth areas by addressing the challenges and needs associated with rapid development. These enhancements not only meet current demands but also lay the groundwork for sustainable growth and development in the future. The road improvements are designed to handle increased traffic volumes for many years, helping mitigate future growth's impact on traffic conditions.
The proposed Fairmont Parkway Reconstruction Project includes specific measures to improve walking and biking conditions, reflecting a commitment to enhancing bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. Key aspects of these improvements include: Sidewalk Construction: The project proposes constructing sidewalks along both the north and south right-of-way (ROW) of Fairmont Parkway. These sidewalks will provide safe and accessible walking paths for pedestrians, enhancing connectivity and safety for residents and visitors. Shared-Use Paths: The scope includes extending a 10-foot shared-use path to benefit cyclists and pedestrians. This path will offer a dedicated space for non-motorized transportation, encouraging biking and walking as alternative modes of transport. Including this shared-use path enhances connectivity and encourages healthier, more environmentally friendly modes of transport. Bike Trails Under Bridges: The plan considers incorporating bike trails underneath new bridges. This aspect of the project would further improve the cycling infrastructure, providing continuous, safe routes for cyclists and helping to integrate bicycle travel into the broader transportation network. Improved Pedestrian Crossings and Signals: The project aims to improve pedestrian crossings and signals, making it safer for pedestrians to navigate busy roads. This includes enhancements at intersections and other key crossing points, ensuring pedestrians can cross safely and efficiently. Safety and Accessibility Enhancements: The project's overall design considers the needs of pedestrians and cyclists, focusing on creating a safe and accessible environment. This includes considerations for adequate lighting, signage, and other features that contribute to a pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly infrastructure. These improvements in the Fairmont Parkway Reconstruction Project demonstrate a comprehensive approach to enhancing bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. The project significantly enhances walking and biking conditions by constructing new sidewalks and shared-use paths, considering bike trails under bridges, and improving pedestrian crossings and signals. This provides health and environmental benefits by encouraging non-motorized transportation and contributes to the overall quality of life and accessibility within the community.
The proposed project includes several improvements that can positively impact traffic conditions for transit services, including local, express, signature, or commuter services. The general infrastructure enhancements can be beneficial for transit in the following ways: Roadway Widening and Additional Lanes: Expanding the roadway and adding lanes can lead to smoother traffic flow, which indirectly benefits transit services. With reduced congestion and improved traffic conditions, transit vehicles such as buses can operate more efficiently, maintain better schedules, and experience fewer delays. Improved Traffic Signalization: Upgrading traffic signals and implementing intelligent transportation systems (ITS) can enhance the overall efficiency of traffic flow at intersections. Better signal timing and coordination can reduce waiting times for all vehicles, including transit buses, leading to more reliable and punctual transit services. Enhanced Safety and Accessibility: Improvements in pedestrian and cycling infrastructure, such as sidewalks and crossings, not only benefit pedestrians and cyclists but also support transit users who often rely on these modes of transportation to access transit stops. Safer and more accessible pathways encourage the use of public transit by making it easier and more convenient for people to reach transit points. Potential for Future Transit Infrastructure: The project's infrastructure improvements could provide a foundation for future transit-specific enhancements, such as dedicated bus lanes or bus rapid transit (BRT) systems. By improving the underlying road network, the project paves the way for potential transit upgrades in the future. Currently, Harris County Transit has one stop along the project segment - W Fairmont Parkway @ Broadway. Reduced Congestion and Improved Reliability: Overall, the project aims to reduce congestion and enhance traffic flow, which can lead to a more reliable transportation network. This reliability is crucial for transit services, as consistent and predictable traffic conditions allow for more efficient transit operations. In summary, while the proposed project may not directly focus on transit services, the proposed improvements to the roadway, traffic signals, pedestrian infrastructure, and overall traffic flow can indirectly benefit transit operations by enhancing efficiency, safety, accessibility, and reliability. These benefits can improve transit service quality and encourage greater use of public transportation.
To specifically address the reduction of inoperability due to infrastructure damage caused by collisions with trucks, the proposed project incorporates several measures: Robust Roadway and Barrier Design: The project may include strengthening roadway infrastructure and installing or enhancing barriers and guardrails. These features are designed to withstand the impact of collisions with trucks, preventing or minimizing damage to the roadway, bridges, and related infrastructure. Widened Lanes and Improved Road Layout: By widening the road and adding lanes, the project provides more space for vehicles, including trucks, to maneuver safely. This can help reduce the likelihood of collisions caused by congestion, tight turns, or inadequate lane width. Enhanced Traffic Signals and Signage: Improving traffic signals and signage can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. Better visibility and clarity in signaling can help truck drivers navigate intersections and roadways more safely. Safety Measures for High-Risk Areas: The project may include specific safety measures in areas more prone to truck collisions, such as sharp curves, bridge approaches, or busy intersections. These could involve additional signage, enhanced lighting, or other safety features. Regular Maintenance and Inspection: Regular maintenance and inspection of the roadway and its associated infrastructure help identify and address potential issues that could lead to collisions. Proactive maintenance can prevent deterioration that might contribute to truck accidents. By implementing these measures, the proposed project aims to reduce the risk of inoperability due to truck collisions. Strengthening infrastructure, improving road layout and safety features, and ensuring proactive maintenance and rapid response are key strategies for achieving this goal.
The Fairmont Parkway Reconstruction Project aims to improve the state of good repair and extend the service life of the project facility through several key strategies: Roadway Widening and Reconstruction: By widening and reconstructing parts of the road, the project replaces older, potentially deteriorating pavement with new, more durable materials. This not only enhances the current condition of the roadway but also extends its service life by using modern construction techniques and materials designed to last longer and withstand heavier use. Bridge Improvements and Replacements: The project includes plans for improving and replacing bridges, such as the twin bridges at Willow Springs Bayou. Upgrading these structures with more durable materials and contemporary engineering designs will enhance their longevity and resilience, extending their service life. Improved Drainage Systems: Implementing effective drainage solutions is crucial for maintaining the road in good condition. Proper drainage prevents water accumulation and damage, which can significantly degrade road quality. The project's focus on drainage improvements will help maintain the integrity of the roadway and associated infrastructure. Use of High-Quality Materials: The project uses high-quality, long-lasting materials for the roadway and bridge constructions. These materials are chosen for their durability and ability to withstand the stresses of daily traffic, weather conditions, and other environmental factors. Regular Maintenance and Monitoring: Regular maintenance and monitoring of the infrastructure are key aspects of maintaining a state of good repair. The project's design likely includes plans for ongoing maintenance, which will involve routine inspections, timely repairs, and preventive measures to address potential issues before they become significant problems. Design for Future Traffic Needs: The project is designed to meet current traffic demands and accommodate future growth. This forward-looking approach ensures that the roadway and bridges will remain functional and efficient for longer, even as traffic volumes and patterns change. Incorporation of Safety Features: Including safety features such as better signage, lighting, and guardrails contributes to the overall longevity of the road by reducing the likelihood of accidents and the associated damage to the infrastructure. By focusing on these strategies, the proposed project aims to significantly improve the facility's state of good repair and extend its service life. The combination of modern construction techniques, high-quality materials, effective drainage solutions, and regular maintenance ensures that the infrastructure will remain in good condition for many years, supporting the needs of the community and the region.
Planning Factors Criteria
1.455
4.526
The Fairmont Parkway Reconstruction Project incorporates several specific improvements, or work types, that are expected to reduce the number of fatalities and serious injury crashes. These improvements, along with their associated crash reduction factors, include: Improve Traffic Signals (24% reduction): Upgrading traffic signals will improve safety and reduce intersection-related crashes. Install Pedestrian Signal (34% reduction): Adding pedestrian signals can significantly reduce accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists. Interconnect Signals (10% reduction): Interconnecting signals can improve traffic flow and safety at intersections. Install Delineators (12% reduction): Delineators can improve roadway visibility and safety, particularly in dark conditions. Install Flashing Yellow Arrow (41% reduction): This can significantly reduce intersection-related crashes by providing clearer turning guidance. Widen Bridge (55% reduction): This improves safety and capacity, reducing crashes related to bridge structures. Resurfacing (30% reduction): Improving the surface condition of the road can reduce crashes caused by poor road conditions. Install Pavement Markings (20% reduction): Clear pavement markings improve lane discipline and navigation. Widen Lane(s) (30% reduction): Wider lanes can reduce lane departure and side-swipe collision crashes. Install Centerline Striping (65% reduction): This can significantly reduce head-on and opposite direction side-swipe crashes. The combination of these improvements is designed to address the various factors contributing to crashes, such as visibility, road geometry, intersection safety, and pedestrian safety. By implementing these work types, the proposed project is expected to significantly reduce the number of fatalities and serious injury crashes in the area.
Resiliency
High
High
The proposed Fairmont Parkway Reconstruction Project includes specific improvements to reduce vulnerability to flooding. These improvements focus on enhancing the drainage system and managing stormwater effectively, particularly in areas prone to water accumulation. Key aspects of these improvements include: Drainage Improvement and Storm Sewer Installation: The project involves installing new storm sewer systems and improving existing drainage infrastructure. This includes constructing new storm sewer inlets, pipes, and outfalls to capture and channel stormwater away from the road surface effectively. Regrading and Reshaping Roadside Ditches: In areas with roadside ditches, the project may include regrading and reshaping them to improve their capacity to handle stormwater. This helps prevent water from accumulating on the roadway and causing flooding. Elevating Road Surfaces in Flood-Prone Areas: In locations prone to flooding, the project scope may include elevating the road surface to keep it above potential flood levels. This ensures that the roadway remains passable even during heavy rain events. Constructing Detention or Retention Basins: To manage the volume of stormwater, the project might incorporate the construction of detention or retention basins. These basins temporarily hold stormwater during heavy rainfall, releasing it slowly to avoid overwhelming the drainage system. Culvert Improvements and Replacements: Where culverts are present, the project may involve improving or replacing these structures to enhance their capacity and efficiency in channeling water under the roadway. Use of Permeable Pavements: In certain areas, the project could include permeable pavements, which allow water to percolate through the surface and reduce runoff. Implementation of Erosion Control Measures: To prevent erosion caused by stormwater runoff, the project may include installing silt fences, seeding, and other erosion control techniques. By implementing these drainage and stormwater management improvements, the proposed project aims to reduce roadway vulnerability significantly. These measures ensure the road infrastructure can handle heavy rainfall events, minimizing the risk of flood-related disruptions and damage.
Access/Connectivity
18,384 (Weighted Low & Moderate Income Persons (2015)) https://datalab.h-gac.com/ace/
29,948 - https://datalab.h-gac.com/ace/
Yes
Yes
Yes
Environmental Justice
18,384 (Weighted Low & Moderate Income (2015)) -https://datalab.h-gac.com/ace/
29,948
6,120 (Population in Poverty)
5,009
2,404
3,218
32.4
The Fairmont Parkway Reconstruction Project's focus on safety, pedestrian and bicycle facilities and improved access offers significant benefits to vulnerable populations, contributing to a safer, more inclusive, and accessible environment. Safety Improvements: The project includes roadway widening, bridge improvements, and traffic signal modifications that enhance overall road safety. This is particularly beneficial for vulnerable populations at risk of traffic-related incidents. Pedestrian and Bicycle Facilities: The project includes the construction of sidewalks along Fairmont Parkway's north and south right-of-way and the extension of a 10-foot shared-use path. These improvements provide safe and accessible routes for pedestrians and cyclists, including vulnerable groups such as elderly persons, children, and those with mobility impairments. Improved Access and Connectivity: Enhancements to pedestrian and cycling infrastructure, along with overall roadway improvements, increase accessibility and connectivity for all users, including vulnerable populations. This helps integrate these groups more effectively into the community and provides them with better access to essential services and amenities.
The proposed Fairmont Parkway Reconstruction Project aims to avoid or mitigate adverse effects on vulnerable populations. According to the Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) Transportation Project Selection Process, adverse effects include a range of human health and environmental impacts such as bodily harm, pollution, resource disruption, aesthetic value loss, community impact, impact on facilities and services, employment impacts, displacement, increased traffic congestion, and delays in transportation program benefits. The project includes several measures: Safety Improvements: The project focuses on enhancing road safety, which protects vulnerable populations from bodily harm and traffic-related fatalities or injuries. This includes roadway widening, bridge improvements, and traffic signal upgrades. Reduced Pollution and Noise: The project aims to lower vehicle emissions and noise pollution by improving traffic flow and reducing congestion, contributing to better air quality and a quieter environment. This is particularly beneficial for vulnerable populations living near the parkway. Enhanced Pedestrian and Bicycle Infrastructure: Building sidewalks and shared-use paths improves safety and accessibility for vulnerable groups, including older people, children, and those with mobility challenges. It also promotes healthier, more sustainable transportation options. Community Cohesion and Economic Vitality: Improved transportation infrastructure can stimulate economic growth and enhance community connectivity. This supports the area's economic vitality and provides better access to jobs, education, and services for vulnerable populations. Minimizing Displacement and Disruption: The project is designed to reduce the need for displacement of residents, businesses, and organizations. Careful planning and community engagement are key to ensuring that the project's implementation has minimal disruptive effects on the local community. Mitigating Traffic Congestion: The project aims to alleviate traffic congestion and reduce isolation and exclusion that can result from poor transportation infrastructure. Improved road conditions will make it easier for vulnerable populations to access essential services and participate in community activities. The Fairmont Parkway project considers the potential adverse effects on vulnerable populations and includes specific measures to mitigate these impacts. The project's focus on safety, environmental protection, community connectivity, and minimal disruption plays a vital role in ensuring that the benefits of improved transportation infrastructure are inclusive and accessible to all community members.
Impacts on Natural and Cultural Resources
To avoid or mitigate impacts to natural resources, the proposed project will comply with all federal, state, and local regulations related to wetlands and flood plains. Harris County will implement best management practices to minimize potential impacts on these resources. In addition, the project will incorporate sustainable design practices such as green infrastructure and low impact development to minimize the project's impact on natural resources. To address potential impacts to cultural resources, Harris County will coordinate the assessment and any necessary mitigation measures will be identified and implemented as part of the project design and construction process. The County will also follow all applicable federal and state regulations related to the protection of cultural resources. By adhering to these guidelines, Harris County aims to deliver a project that will provide significant benefits to the community while avoiding or mitigating potential adverse effects to natural and cultural resources.
NOx Emission Reductions (tons) 4.40; VOC Emission Reductions (tons) 25.17
Innovation
Yes
The proposed project aims to implement new infrastructure technologies to enhance accessibility, mobility, multimodalism, resiliency, reliability, and traffic operations. The project scope is slated to incorporate Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) to manage traffic flow and improve safety for all users, including motorists, transit users, pedestrians, and bicyclists. The project will also utilize the latest technologies for transit signal priority and real-time traveler information systems to enhance transit service reliability and make it more attractive to potential riders. Additionally, the project will feature complete streets design elements to enhance accessibility for all users, including those with disabilities, and promote walking and biking as viable transportation options. The project will also utilize green infrastructure solutions to increase resiliency and encourage sustainable development. Through these measures, the proposed project seeks to improve transportation accessibility, mobility, and resiliency while enhancing traffic operations and reliability.
Yes
The proposed traffic signals and traffic controllers will be equipped with technologies and standards that will be compatible with autonomous and connected vehicles.
Additional Documents
Pages from Combined H-GAC Call - Fairmont Pkwy_1-30-24 Court Meeting (005).pdf