The type of traffic barriers you choose is an important consideration along scenic byways. Barriers help prevent motorists form striking a more hazardous object or from sliding down a steep slope. However, since these structures line the roadway, they also influence the scenic quality.
Several aesthetic alternative barriers have been designed and tested to complement the natural landscape or reflect an architectural theme better than traditional barriers. Naturally weathering steel guardrails may be an improvement over the highly reflective galvanized rails. Other choices include wood rails with steel backing, stone walls with a concrete core, precast simulated stone guardrails, and glue-laminated wood guardrails. All have been crash tested and approved by the FHWA.
Barrier standards and designs along high-volume roads or freeways do not always apply to low-to-moderate-volume roads. Roadside berms can be another alternative. Work with transportation engineers to select the best alternative for the type of road and location.
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