Strategic Traffic Control Solutions for Nevada Fiber Expansion

AWP Safety Delivers Strategic Traffic Control Solutions for Large Fiber Expansion Across Northern Nevada

As a trusted partner in broadband infrastructure development, AWP Safety supports fiber providers and subcontractors with comprehensive traffic control services. From permitting and certified flagging to technology deployment and worksite setup, AWP Safety delivers turnkey solutions tailored to large-scale, high-speed fiber installation projects.

In late September of 2024, Lumen Technologies, a global telecommunications technology company and fiber provider, subcontracted Ervin Cable Construction, LLC, to help install nearly 200 miles of high-speed fiber lines along I-80 between Reno, Nevada, and Salt Lake City, starting at a midpoint in remote Winnemucca, Nevada. Due to a history of successful collaboration and proven leadership, Ervin Cable selected AWP Safety to lead traffic control operations for the project.

Challenge

I-80 is one of the longest and most crucial transportation corridors in the U.S., stretching about 410 miles through Northern Nevada. The route has a high-speed limit at 75 mph, adding substantial safety risks for crews — especially at night when crews work to avoid peak traffic times. In addition, the worksite locations were up to 500 miles away from AWP Safety’s Las Vegas branch, demanding complex crew deployment and equipment logistics.

The project also faced delays due to harsh seasonal weather — including snow and freezing conditions — and required multiple approvals and inspections from third-party entities and the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT).

Solution

AWP Safety’s response integrated meticulous planning, coordination and communication.

• Strategic deployment. A nine-person mobile crew was dispatched and equipped with multiple truck mounted attenuators (TMAs) and barricade trucks. The team utilized an efficient leapfrog setup system to continuously set-up and tear-down shoulder and right lane closures along the interstate, without interruption.

• Efficient traffic control planning. AWP Safety created a single, comprehensive traffic control plan that streamlined approvals and permitting while reducing potential delays. Crews also quickly adapted to onsite NDOT requests, including rapid deployment of rumble strips and other specialized equipment.

• A resilient, dedicated workforce. Working 14-hour shifts, six days a week for up to three months at a time, AWP crews demonstrated exceptional commitment and endurance to keep the project on schedule.

• Proactive communication. Daily job safety analyses and tailgate meetings kept AWP and Ervin Cable crews aligned on goals, safety protocols, and workflow updates.

Results

• Rapid fiber deployment. Installation progressed efficiently, with Ervin Cable crews deploying up to 1.5 reels of fiber — enough to cover 7.5 miles — per week.

• Customer satisfaction. Ervin Cable and third-party inspectors praised AWP Safety for its professionalism, safety culture, and dependable execution. Bryon Schmidt, Project Inspector said, “I wanted to let you know how impressed I am with the [AWP Safety] crew…they have been very professional, never late and in fact early. They have been flexible with our schedule…they verify where we need them and they go to it. I’d have them on any project — it would make my life easier.”

• Camaraderie. Despite extended stays away from home, the AWP Safety and Ervin Cable crews maintained high morale through shared meals, milestone celebrations and team support.

“I was most impressed by our crew’s resilience,” says Misty Cook, office manager for AWP Safety’s North Las Vegas facility. “Being away from their families for weeks at a time wasn’t easy, but they showed up every day with focus and determination. Their ability to build strong working relationships with Ervin Cable’s team made a real difference in keeping the project moving forward safely and efficiently.”

Request an estimate, to discuss your next project with a dedicated AWP Safety Sales representative.