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Efland-Buckhorn-Mebane Access Management Plan <br /> 25. Incorporating Aesthetics Into Access Management <br /> Access management projects often involve widening existing roadways to add either <br /> an additional two-way-left-turn lane (TWLTL) or a raised median. Such projects can <br /> lead to a wide expanse of concrete and asphalt. An aesthetically pleasing treatment, <br /> however, does not need to run counter to sound access management practices. In <br /> fact, aesthetics can and should be incorporated into access management project <br /> plans. <br /> Why are aesthetics important? <br /> Access management projects are much more likely to be accepted by the public and <br /> by business owners of adjacent properties if they look good as well as improve safety <br /> and traffic flow. <br /> 26. Clear Zones, Utility Placement And Lighting <br /> Adequate clear zones with proper placement of utilities and sufficient lighting are <br /> essential components of well designed roadways. Proper design will help ensure <br /> sufficient sight distance and improve roadway operating safety. <br /> What is a clear zone? <br /> The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) <br /> Green Book states that "a clear zone is used to designate the unobstructed, relatively <br /> flat area provided beyond the edge of the traveled way for the recovery of errant <br /> vehicles." Utilities, structures, signs, trees, and other objects should not be located <br /> within the clear zone. <br />