Abstract: An energy absorbing barrier system comprises a plurality of composite concrete barriers, each barrier including a reinforced concrete section having a back wall upon a support base. The support base is connected to a concrete veneer face section having an upper portion and a lower portion. The face section forwardly slopes from the support base to form an obtuse angle therewith such that the upper portion of the face section extends at least partially over the lower portion of the face section. The back wall and the face section defines an intermediate center core section therebetween consisting of a light density crushable material. The connection of the concrete veneer face section to the support base has a sheer point that facilitates the collapsing in of the face into the intermediate core section.