New Safety Cable Improves Traffic

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, May 11, 2006

AUSTIN – A new state-of-the-art cable barrier along sections of Loop 1 in Austin has people talking these days. Officially known as Tension Cable Barrier, the three-cable barricade is designed to prevent fatal cross median accidents.

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) says that not only do the barriers improve safety, but also the cost of construction is about four times less than conventional metal beam guard fence. Guard fence costs between $90 and $125 a linear foot while the cable barrier can be installed for $12 to $20 a linear foot. The cost of repairing the barrier after a hit is also cheaper than conventional metal fence and the fix usually takes about a half hour to complete. Likewise, the barrier can sustain multiple hits before repairs are necessary.

According to TxDOT, the new system is also easier on the vehicle’s passengers in the event of a collision. The barrier is created to absorb the energy of a crash that provides a less violent impact. The cable can flex up to eight feet to soften the crash.

Safety barrier is already being used extensively in Louisiana, Mississippi, Ohio and Utah.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT:
John Hurt
Office of Public Affairs
(512) 832-7060
Email: jhurt@dot.state.tx.us