Here in the Chicago area, we've been contending with major road construction all summer. Both I-294 and the Edens Expressway, the two major North-South routes, are or have been almost completely redone, complete with bridge reconstruction. I can't imagine how these projects have been permitted to happen simultaneously, but that's another matter.
In any event, I was traveling northbound on the Edens Expressway today. All three lanes have received one layer of new asphalt. Now, here's the problem: the left and middle lanes have also received what appears to be the second and final layer of asphalt, but the right lane hasn't, creating a potential "edge trap" for motorcycles trying to change from the right lane to either the center or left lanes.
The height of this final layer appears to be about 1.5 to 2 inches high. I was in my car, so I intentionally drove over it to try to judge the height and the effect on my tires. I could definitely feel the "ridge" as I crossed it.
Here's my question: does anyone but me think it's crazy for IDOT (IL Dept. of Transportation) to have allowed this to happen, even on a temporary basis? It seems to me that it is potentially very dangerous for unsuspecting motorcycle riders, especially after dark. And given the upcoming H-D celebration in Milwaukee this weekend, I have seen dozens of bikes riding on the expressway.
I'd appreciate your thoughts on the subject. I'd even consider contacting IDOT or the Illinois State Police if most here agree with my concern.
In any event, I was traveling northbound on the Edens Expressway today. All three lanes have received one layer of new asphalt. Now, here's the problem: the left and middle lanes have also received what appears to be the second and final layer of asphalt, but the right lane hasn't, creating a potential "edge trap" for motorcycles trying to change from the right lane to either the center or left lanes.
The height of this final layer appears to be about 1.5 to 2 inches high. I was in my car, so I intentionally drove over it to try to judge the height and the effect on my tires. I could definitely feel the "ridge" as I crossed it.
Here's my question: does anyone but me think it's crazy for IDOT (IL Dept. of Transportation) to have allowed this to happen, even on a temporary basis? It seems to me that it is potentially very dangerous for unsuspecting motorcycle riders, especially after dark. And given the upcoming H-D celebration in Milwaukee this weekend, I have seen dozens of bikes riding on the expressway.
I'd appreciate your thoughts on the subject. I'd even consider contacting IDOT or the Illinois State Police if most here agree with my concern.