It’s time to break out the jackets and coats as cooler weather sweeps across Central Florida. The winter season brings new challenges for construction crews working on Interstate 4 (I-4) Beyond the Ultimate projects. From dropping temperatures to high wind speeds, crews must stay up to date on weather conditions and determine how work can safely proceed. The Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT’s) standard specifications outline the conditions under which crews can safely continue operations or must pause work due to cold weather. Let’s look at what some of those impacts can be.

Periods of cold weather can prevent the proper mixing or placement of concrete, which cannot be mixed or placed when the ambient air temperature is below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. If there is a chance of freezing during concrete curing, crews must enclose the structure with specially designed curing blankets to keep the concrete above 50 degrees for a period of three days. These measures are necessary if ambient temperatures fall below 35 degrees for 12 hours or more or below 30 degrees for four hours. Using the curing blankets ensures that the concrete cures within the proper moisture and temperature range.

Cold weather also may impact the placement of traffic stripes or pavement markings on a roadway. Pavement markings can only be applied to dry surfaces and when the air and surface temperature is 60 degrees or higher.

The winter season also brings the chance for higher wind speeds. This can affect processes such as concrete pouring for bridge decks, like the one pictured above at the I-4 and Sand Lake Road (State Road (S.R.) 482) interchange improvement project. Even if the air temperature is above 40 degrees, concrete for bridge decks cannot be poured if the average wind velocity during planned work hours exceeds 15 mph. Crews monitor weather forecasts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and National Weather Service (NWS) to stay up to date prior to a scheduled operation.

Following the FDOT standard specifications for cold weather keeps crews safe and helps projects stay on track as weather improves. You can stay up to date on I-4 Beyond projects by visiting I4Beyond.com.