Roadside Management Toolbox: Minor Concrete

What is This Treatment?

Minor Concrete is a standard concrete mix, spread and compacted as specified in Caltrans Standard Specifications Section 90-10. Structural section will vary depending on site specific requirements.

When to Use This Treatment

Concrete pavement is recommended for use as a roadside management strategy in medians, gore areas, and in narrow strips adjacent to sound walls and retaining walls. Concrete is most effective and context appropriate in urban and suburban areas where the roadside concrete will be contiguous to the roadway. Concrete paving may be patterned and/or colored during installation (see Stamped Concrete).

Slope Paving Under Bridge Structures

• Identify the bridge structure number in the statewide Bridge Log
• Look at the Bridge Standard Detail Sheet - Section 4 Bridge Abutments, XS4-210 (Slope Paving)
• Review this document called the Bridge Memo To Designers - Slope Treatment Under Structures section 5-10.

Benefits

• Concrete paving is a commonly used road construction material and readily available in most locales.
• Most contractors and Caltrans Maintenance crews have the equipment and construction knowledge for proper installation.

Limitations

• Because it is a rigid material, concrete paving is not recommended to be placed within 8 inches of guard rail and sign posts. To control weed growth under guard railing, see Vegetation Control (Minor Concrete).
• Minor concrete paving has a relatively high installation cost, but is cost effective when the full lifecycle cost is considered.
• Excavation for base materials may require removal of ADL (Aerially Deposited Lead) and increase costs.

Specifications

• 2010 Standard Specification section 90-2 Minor Concrete.

Cost

• $50 - $100/yd2 Variable depending on quantity, soil prep., base depth, concrete depth and access.

Updated May 24, 2012