The purpose of an Intersection Control Evaluation (ICE) is to consistently consider multiple context-sensitive control strategies when planning a new or modified intersection. Some of these control strategies are:
• Two-Way Stop-control
• All-Way Stop-Control
• Signalized Controlled
• Roundabout
• Median U-Turn (MUT)
• Restricted Crossing U-Turn (RCUT) – Signalized and Unsignalized
• Jughandle
• Displaced Left-Turn
• Continuous Green Tee
• Quadrant Roadway
• Partial MUT
ICE is required when:
• New signalization is proposed.
• Major reconstruction is proposed for an existing intersection.
• Changing a directional or bi-directional median opening to a full median opening.
• Driveway connection permit applications for Category E, F, and G standard connection categories add, remove, or modify a traffic signal; or
• The District Design Engineer (DDE) and District Traffic Operations Engineer (DTOE) consider an ICE a good fit for the project.
ICE is not required for intersection projects if any of the following apply.
• Work involved does not include any substantive proposed changes to an intersection.
• Minor intersection operational improvements or signal replacement projects where the primary purpose is to upgrade deficient equipment and installations.
In Stage 1, Capacity Analysis at Junctions (CAP-X) and Safety Performance for ICE (SPICE) are used to generalize capacity information and safety performance evaluations for the study intersection(s). If the results lead to a single viable control strategy meeting the project’s purpose and need and is applicable to the corridor’s context classification, a Stage 1 ICE form will be completed. After completing the Stage 1 ICE Form, it will be sent to the District Design Engineer (DDE) and the District Traffic Operations Engineer (DTOE) to be considered for approval, and no further stages of ICE are required.
However, if stage 1 analysis indicates multiple control strategies as viable and meeting the project’s purpose and need and the corridor’s context classification. Then the results are shared with the DTOE, the DDE, by completing a Stage 1 ICE form the analysis transitions into Stage 2.
Stage 2 is intended to help differentiate any remaining control strategies with a more detailed screening. By developing a conceptual design for each possible control strategy, these are essential to communicate control strategy concepts to the public and evaluating factors (such as cost, right-of-way impacts, and environmental impact on a site-specific basis). Evaluation of other factors is captured with synchro outreach to local agencies and the public.
When Stage 1 or Stage 2 does not identify a selected control strategy, Stage 3 should be customized to address the outstanding issues. This can be done by further public outreach, development of more detailed designs, conduct further environmental analysis etc.
SR 860/Miami Gardens Drive at NW 14 Avenue ICE Study:
We currently are working on an ICE for the city of Miami Gardens at the intersection of SR 860/Miami Gardens Drive and NW 14 Avenue. North of this intersection there will be updates to Rolling Oaks Park and will require an entrance from SR 860/Miami Gardens Drive. Due to this an ICE was needed since this project meets the requirements for an ICE.
FDOT recommended we analyze two control strategies, Signalized Controlled and Median U-Turn (partial). Since only two control strategies were being analyzed, we were able to determine signalized control strategy was the best option for this intersection but going through the CAP-X and SPICE analysis. Stage 1 was completed, and Stage 2 will not be needed since one viable option was concluded.
Resources:
FDOT ICE Manual:
https://fdotwww.blob.core.windows.net/sitefinity/docs/default-source/traffic/trafficservices/studies/muts/new-muts-2021-and-forms/fdot-ice-manual_january-2021_v7.pdf?sfvrsn=e9ff0e72_0
Additional Resources could also be found at this website:
https://www.fdot.gov/traffic/trafficservices/intersection-operations.shtm
By Elizabeth Correal, EI
