The Cable Guide: Florida Turns to Median and Canal Barriers to Save Lives

This article describes the efforts of Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise (FTE) to reduce fatalities by installing a high-tension, steel-cabled barrier system instead of median guardrails as part of the Miami-Dade median protection project. Although there were initial problems with the tension wire rope, by working with manufacturers and training maintenance staff to repair the systems after a crash, these problems were resolved. In addition, hoped-for cost savings are being realized. The article also describes the use of the high-tension cable barrier system as protection around the canals that are often the site of vehicle fatalities. The project will cost $61.5 million and provide protection along 259 miles of Florida’s Turnpike.