In 2021, Sain Associates undertook a comprehensive operations and safety analysis along a 7.7-mile stretch of US-31, spanning from South Colonial Parkway in Alabaster to Amphitheater Road in Pelham. This study included 19 signalized intersections as well as 69 unsignalized intersections. We reviewed roadway geometry, traffic control equipment, crash trends, planned developments in the area, and traffic operations. The primary goal was to identify existing deficiencies and recommend improvements to mitigate those deficiencies.
Such a large study area required a lot of communication and collaboration both internally and with the project stakeholders. Collaborative efforts with officials from ALDOT, the City of Alabaster, and the City of Pelham were pivotal in ensuring that the recommendations aligned with the best interests of the local communities. We also collaborated with the Pelham police and fire departments to facilitate their ability to safely respond to emergencies, especially during peak traffic hours. By prioritizing safety throughout the study, recommendations were tailored to optimize access management, including measures like closing unnecessary median openings and extending inadequate turn lanes. Consideration was also given to the anticipated traffic requirements of upcoming developments, like Campus 124 in Alabaster, to foster economic progress without compromising safety.
Since the study was finalized, several improvement recommendations have been incorporated into existing resurfacing projects or even installed on their own. All in all, this study was a large undertaking, but it proved very rewarding to improve the lives of people in the community by making their roads safer and easier to drive on. The commitment to excellence and safety exhibited in this study exemplifies Sain Associates’ dedication to creating solutions that positively impact communities.