Central Tri-State Tollway I-294 Project
Portable Construction Entrance Used On Central Tri-State Tollway I-294 Project
FODS Trackout Control System was recently deployed by Old Veterans Construction (OVC) as part of the ongoing reconstruction and widening project on I-294 under taken by the Illinois Tollway Board of Directors and Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT). Daily traffic on this part of the highway exceeds 220,000 vehicles and contractors must work efficiently to reduce the impact on affected populations. The full scope of work involves widening the highway to meet current and future demand as well as integrating flex-lanes, and SmartRoad technology. In addition to upgrading the road system, the scope of work also involves upgrading the communications infrastructure by adding fiber optic cabling along the highway. Due the ongoing nature of the project which requires the work to be done in multiple phases, over 60 separate stabilized construction entrances will be needed over the course of the project.
Challenge: Phased Construction Work
Highway work in particular requires effective trackout control measures to keep debris from entering the roadway. While traditional gravel tracking pads can be used in this situation, construction operators face a number of significant challenges with this solution. Gravel tracking pads take time to properly install and remove which is repeated for each segment of the project. Tracking pads also require regular maintenance to remain effective and aggregate that is spilled to tracked onto the roadway can create a hazard to workers and passing vehicles. In some cases where space is limited, aggregate tracking pads can be infeasible to implement at the proper length which can increase the risk that pollution and debris will leave the jobsite.
Solution: Portable Construction Entrtance
Old Veterans Construction recognized that this highway project was an ideal candidate for the FODS manufactured trackout control device which is reusable, rockless, and can be quickly deployed at each location. A standard FODS layout can be installed in as little as twenty minutes which adds up to a significant reduction in preparation time throughout the project. The speed and ease of installation allows OVC to install FODS Mats where needed for the completion of a segment, and then move the system to other areas of the project for use again and again.
FODS Trackout Control is a complete replacement for traditional rock stabilized construction entrances. FODS Patented design uses staggered pyramids to mechanically remove mud, dirt, and rocks from vehicle tires, preventing tracking from work sites. This design removes more sediment than tracking pads which allows FODS mats effectively remove trackout over a shorter distance. When there is limited space to implement vehicle tracking controls, the modular design of the system allows contractors to adapt the FODS layout as needed to remain in compliance in the most challenging job site conditions. Unlike other systems, FODS can be deployed on top of nearly any surface without requiring excavation or substrate preparation. Replace the rock and install a FODS trackout control system in as little as twenty minutes.
Because highways construction and cable installation projects involve segmented work, contractors can save time and money by reusing FODS mats for each segment. Besides eliminating the aggregate costs, FODS reduced the amount of time needed to install the 60 stabilized construction entrances on this project. FODS mats offer a new and versatile solution allowing contractors to offer more competitive services while reducing the potential for stormwater permit violations. OVC has chosen to implement this modern reusable trackout control system which allowed the project to progress faster and will continue to provide better trackout control throughout the ten-year lifespan of the mats.
Contact FODS to learn more about how our new, innovative, and durable trackout control system can be a simple and cost-effective solution for your construction site.
Thank you to Old Veterans Construction and Brock-White for your help on this project.
ABOUT FODS, LLC.
Based in Englewood Colorado, FODS Trackout Control System replace ineffective and costly traditional rock stabilized construction entrances, saving you valuable time and money. Our proprietary mat design works to effectively remove mud and sediment from your vehicle tires without damaging the tire or the ground’s surface. We provide the only durable, reusable, and environmentally friendly trackout control system currently available on the market. FODS Trackout Control Mats are 100% Made in the USA and are reusable and recyclable.