The following is a list of approved traffic safety low-cost improvements that are typically eligible to be constructed using the Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP). Many of these improvements are utilized on state and US highways and are recommended for use on local roads as well. The Local Highway Safety Programs tile contains an application form to apply for systemic project eligibility.
1. Conduct inventory of traffic signs and upgrade warning and regulatory signs to meet MUTCD retroreflectivity requirements.
2. Improve the visibility of curves by upgrading curve warning signs and markings.
3. Improve visibility of unsignalized intersections by installing upgraded/new warning devices.
4. Install vehicle activated advanced warning devices including Stop Ahead and/or LED Stop Signs or Conflict Warning Systems at rural, two-way stop unsignalized intersections.
5. Install new pedestrian crosswalk warning signs, flashing beacons or special pavement markings.
6. Install or upgrade pedestrian curb ramps and refuge areas at areas of high conflict between pedestrians and vehicular traffic.
7. Install pedestrian push button/activated Countdown And Audible (APS) Pedestrian signal heads and controllers at traffic signals.
8. Make changes to yellow interval traffic signal timing or signal interconnect to improve safety.
9. Upgrade traffic signals to a minimum of one signal head per travel lane and install black backing plates with reflective border on all traffic signal heads.
10. Install UPS battery backup (emergency power) systems at traffic signal locations for continuous use during power outages.
11. Improve visibility of intersections by providing overhead and/or pedestrian lighting.
12. Improve left turn sight distance at intersections by installing slotted left turn lanes.
13. Install raised medians for access management control on roadway segments and/or at intersections.
14. Install new centerline and/or edge line pavement markings on unmarked roadways.
15. Add centerline and/or edge line rumble stripes (pavement markings over the rumble) or edgeline rumble strips to rural roads.
16. Install or upgrade passive or new active warning devices and pavement markings at railroad crossings.
17. Install railroad pre-emption systems at signalized intersections that are within the influence area of crossing railroad trains.
18. Install emergency vehicle pre-emption systems at traffic signal locations to reduce response times and increase safety as the emergency vehicles pass through intersections.
19. Construct right sizing (road diet) projects at locations that can be accomplished through the use of signs and pavement markings (Not Applicable to pavement reconstruction or geometric modifications, eligibility rules are under Spot Safety Improvement projects in the HSIP Guidance).
20. Add FHWA recommended High Friction Surface Treatments (HFST) to curves, ramps, or selected intersection approaches.
21. Upgrade guardrail end treatments to meet current standards.
22. Install guardrails or median barriers at locations where none existed previously.
23. Install median cable barrier systems on divided roads with grass medians.
24. Remove or shield permanent roadside safety obstructions.
(Revised 2/20/2023)