Recently Completed: Route 29 at Route 718, Culpeper Co.

Due to an increased speed limit, greater traffic volumes and limited sight distance, VDOT identified a need to improve safety and traffic operations at the intersection of Route 29 (James Monroe Highway) and Route 718 (Mountain Run Lake Road).

A significant number of crashes occurred at the intersection as a result of motorists crossing Route 29 to turn left from Route 718. 

The Restricted Crossing U-Turn (RCUT) intersection differs from a conventional intersection by eliminating the left turn movement from the cross street. To accommodate this movement, the RCUT intersection requires drivers on Route 718 to turn right onto Route 29 and then make a U-turn maneuver at a one-way median opening about 900 feet past the intersection. The new U-turn crossover location improves sight lines down Route 29 and provides a dedicated lane out of the way of traffic for tractor-trailers and other large vehicles who wish to travel north. 

With this project, the Route 29 northbound left-turn lane will be extended to provide full deceleration length. The right-turn lane from Route 29 southbound to Route 718 will be offset to improve visibility for motorists turning right from Route 718.

The RCUT was among the first of its kind in Virginia. 

Benefits 

According to a recent study, the Federal Highway Administration found that RCUTs enhance safety, reducing crashes by 28 to 49 percent when compared to a stop-controlled intersection. Crash severity is reduced by 70 percent in fatal crashes and by 42 percent in crashes resulting in injury.