What is the primary purpose of a taper in work zones?

The primary purpose of a taper in work zones is to facilitate a smooth transition between normal traffic flow and the traffic control zone. Tapers are designed to gradually shift vehicles from the operational lane to a closed or reduced lane, allowing for a seamless adjustment in traffic patterns. This transition helps to maintain safety for both drivers and workers by reducing the likelihood of abrupt lane changes or sudden stops that can result from an unexpected shift in the roadway environment.

Implementing tapers effectively ensures that drivers have adequate space to merge or shift lanes without encountering sharp changes or conflicts with work zone activities. They are a critical component in maintaining the integrity of traffic flow while still allowing necessary construction or maintenance work to take place in proximity to road users.