x
Breaking News
More () »

‘Zipper Merge’ method could reduce I-74 backups

There may be a way to cut down on traffic tie-ups in construction zones, but this method might go against everything you’ve ever thought about safe drivin...

There may be a way to cut down on traffic tie-ups in construction zones, but this method might go against everything you've ever thought about safe driving.

The Iowa Department of Transportation wants to start a merging method called the Zipper Merge.

"People can merge and alternate like a zipper and that's why it's called a zipper merge. One lane can go in and the other lane can go and it seems to work a lot more smoothly," said Doug Rick, I-74 project manager at the Iowa Department of Transportation.

Rick says not only will the method help the flow of traffic but there's a safety benefit as well.

"We want traffic to move as smoothly as possible, so if both lanes were used again you have twice the room of storage for vehicles and your backup is reduced considerably," said Rick.

However all drivers would have to be on the same page to make it work.

"Nobody wants to let someone else go, they want their turn first. It's just kind of the society we have right now," said driver, Ashley Fagan.

Right now Iowa DOT is working to see if a zipper merge would appropriate for the I-74 Bridge. If they do choose to start it, signage would have to be put up but as well as education for the public so drivers can understand how it works.

Here's how it works.

Before You Leave, Check This Out