This is the fourth in a series of blog posts that highlight findings from NYSDOT’s draft Technical Memorandum #1: Physical Conditions Analysis (Tech Memo #1).  To read other blog posts in the series, click here.

Collision data were obtained from NYSDOT for the most recent three-year period available (February 1, 2006 – January 31, 2009) to calculate accident rates for the I-81 and I-690 corridors and their on- and off-ramps. These accident rates were then compared to the statewide average accident rates for similar types of roadways.

The highways in the primary study area have a relatively high rate of accidents when compared to statewide averages. This is especially true in the area around the I-81/I-690 interchange.  For example:

-          The northbound viaduct section of I-81 has an accident rate more than three times the statewide average.

-          I-81 through the I-690 interchange has sections where the accident rates reach five times the statewide average.

-          I-81 north of the I-690 interchange, towards Carousel Center, has an accident rate approximately two times the statewide average.

To read more about collision data in the primary study area, check out the full report for Tech Memo #1, or the summary document, at www.theI81challenge.org/.