vermont local roads mutcd 2009

2009 Manual onUniformTrafficControlDevicesVermont Local RoadsVTransFederal Highway AdministrationMarch - April 2011

ObjectivesAt the end of today you will be able to

• Know who publishes the MUTCD and what it’s legal status is

• Know how to purchase or access the MUTCD

• Find and better understand many of the changes in the 2009 MUTCD– Over 1,500 changes– We’re covering about 100

Important Details

• Restroom location

• Emergency exit

• Lunch arrangements

• Please turn off cell phones

• Evaluation

Don’t attack the messenger!

What is the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices?

• The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) publishes the MUTCD, which contains all national design, application, and placement, standards, guidance, options, and support provisions for traffic control devices. The purpose of the MUTCD is to provide uniformityof these devices, which include signs, signals, and pavement markings, to promote highway safety and efficiency on the Nation's streets and highways.

What is the legal status of the MUTCD?

• The Vermont Statutes Online • Title 23: Motor Vehicles• Chapter 13: OPERATION OF VEHICLES• 23 V.S.A. § 1025. Standards

§ 1025. Standards• (a) The United States Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration's

Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for streets and highways as amended SHALLbe the standards for all traffic control signs, signals and markings within the state.Existing signs, signals and markings shall be valid until such time as they are replaced or reconstructed. When new traffic control devices are erected or placed or existing traffic control devices are replaced or repaired the equipment, design, method of installation, placement or repair shall conform with such standards.

• (b) These standards shall apply for both state and local authorities as to traffic control devices under their respective jurisdiction.

• (c) Traffic and control signals at intersections with exclusive pedestrian walk cycles shall be of sufficient duration to allow a pedestrian to leave the curb and travel across the roadway before opposing vehicles receive a green light. Determination of the length of the signal shall take into account the circumstances of persons with ambulatory handicaps. (Added 1971, No. 258 (Adj. Sess.), § 3, eff. March 1, 1973; amended 1975, No. 26; 1985, No. 138 (Adj. Sess.), § 5.)

Development of the 2009 MUTCD• NPA (notice of proposed amendments) published

in the Federal Register on January 2, 2008• Deadline for comments to docket was

July 31, 2008• Received 1,840 individual letters with over 15,000

comments• Final Rule Published in the Federal Register on

December 16, 2009• Adopted by The State of Vermont under H-784

May 26, 2010

What is the National Committee on Uniform Traffic Control

Devices (NCUTCD), and what is its role?

• The NCUTCD is a private organization that has no official association with the Federal government. Its current membership is more than 250 traffic control device experts, representing a wide variety of organizations, who have a major interest in and experience with traffic control device issues. The majority of the NCUTCD members are employees of State and local agencies and are involved in the daily operation of highways or streets. NCUTCD members are volunteers receiving no compensation for their contributions. Committee members meet twice a year to discuss the Manual and develop consensus recommendations, which are then submitted to the FHWA for consideration. The NCUTCD is also one of many organizations and individuals that reviews FHWA's proposals for MUTCD changes and submits comments to the rulemaking docket. For more information on the NCUTCD, including its history dating from 1932, see their web site at www.ncutcd.org.

Does the MUTCD apply to all roads and streets in the United States?

• Yes. In Title 23 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 655.603 states that the MUTCD is the national standard for all traffic control devices installed on any street, highway, or bicycle trail open to public travel.

What does "open to public travel" mean?

• Title 23 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 655.603 states that "for the purpose of MUTCD applicability, the phrase "‘open to public travel"’ includes toll roads and roads within shopping centers, parking lots, airports, sports arenas, and other similar business and recreation facilities that are privately owned but where the public is allowed to travel without access restrictions. Except for gated toll roads, roads within private gated properties where access is restricted at all times are not included in this definition. Parking areas, driving aisles within parking areas, and private highway-rail grade crossings are also not included in this definition."

NOT subject to MUTCDParking areas and their driving aisles

How does the 2009 MUTCD Final Rule relate to the December 21, 2007 Final

Rule on Maintaining Sign Retroreflectivity?

• Sign Retroreflectivity Rule modified the 2003 MUTCD as Revision 2 of that edition, and became effective on January 22, 2008

• The final rule for the 2009 MUTCD incorporates the sign retroreflectivity material that is already in effect

Federal Legislation

retroreflectivityretroreflectivity that that mustmust bebemaintained for traffic signs andmaintained for traffic signs andpavement markings which apply to pavement markings which apply to allallroadsroads open to public travel.open to public travel.””

““The Secretary of The Secretary of Transportation Transportation shallshallrevise the MUTCD to revise the MUTCD to include a include a standardstandard for a for a minimum level ofminimum level of

1993 DOT Appropriations Act1993 DOT Appropriations Act

2009 MUTCD Addresses

• Sign visibility in several sections– 1A.03, 1A.04, 1A.05, 2A.06, 2A.07, 2A.08,

and 2A.22• These sections address

– Uniformity, design, placement, operation, and maintenance

• Previously the MUTCD did not specify minimum retroreflectivity levels

Section 2A.06 Design of Signs• Paragraph 04 - The basic requirements of a

highway sign are that it be legible to those for whom it is intended and that it be understandable in time to permit a proper response. Desirable attributes include:

a) High visibility by day and night; and b) High legibility (adequately sized letters or

symbols, and a short legend for quick comprehension by a road user approaching a sign).

Section 2A.07 Retroreflectivity and Illumination

• Paragraph 02 - …signs and object markers shall be retroreflective or illuminated to show the same shape and similar color by both day and night, unless otherwise provided...

• Paragraph 03 - The requirements for sign illumination shall not be considered to be satisfied by street or highway lighting.

• Section 1A.07 – Paragraph 01 - The responsibility for the design, placement, operation, maintenance, and uniformity of traffic control devices shall rest with the public agency or the official having jurisdiction…

New MUTCD LanguageSection 2A.08 Maintaining Minimum Retroreflectivity

• “Standard:– Public agencies or officials having jurisdiction

shall use an assessment or management method that is designed to maintain sign retroreflectivity at or above the minimum levels in Table 2A-3.”

Section 2A.08 Maintaining Minimum Retroreflectivity - continued

• “Support:– Compliance…is achieved by having a method in

place and using the method to maintain the minimum levels established in Table 2A-3. Provided that an assessment or management method is being used, an agency or official having jurisdiction would be in compliance…even if there are some individual signs that do not meet the minimum retroreflectivity levels at a particular point in time.”

Street Name SignsRetroreflectivity Compliance Dates• Retroreflectivity was a 2007 amendment to the 2003

MUTCD and has a 2018 compliance date. It doesn’t mean all the signs have to be replaced – it just means they all have to meet a minimum retroreflectivity.

• January 2012 for implementation and continued use of an assessment or management method to maintain traffic sign retroreflectivity at or above the established minimum levels

• January 2015 for replacement of regulatory (STOP signs and Speed Limit signs), warning, and ground-mounted guide signs (except street name)

• January 2018 for replacement of street name signs and overhead guide signs

Retroreflective Exempt Signs• Parking/Standing/Stopping• Walking/Hitchhiking• Adopt-A-Highway• Blue or Brown

Backgrounds• Exclusive Use of Bikes

or PedsNote: Must still meet other

requirements in MUTCD

DocumentationThe Value (and need) of Sign Inspection• Benefits

– Is the sign still there?– Is it lying on the ground?– Has it been defaced?– Can you see it?– How well can you answer

questions from attorneys or the insurance company or the newspaper?

– Proactively fixing sign concerns(versus reacting on someone else’snotification costs less).

Remember these words!Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices

(MUTCD)

Shall- A mandatory condition.

Should- An advisory condition. Recommended, not mandatory.

May- A permissive condition. No requirement for design or application is intended.

This language indicates legal distinctions that affect liability

Enforcement

• Sign Police?????

• Tort Law – Branch of law that defines how civil wrong doing that is not a result of a contract is remedied.

• Tort Liability lawsuits, where crash is due to inadequate, inappropriate, or noncompliant traffic control devices.

Consequences of Tort Claims

• Cash damages• Legal fees• Time consuming• Negative publicity• Sets precedence for

other claims

Other Penalties• Possible withdrawal of Federal-aid funds• Sovereign immunity “…The bottom

line is that when considering any action that may result in tort liability, the doctrine of sovereign immunity should never be relied upon as the town’s first line of defense.”– Jim Barlow, Attorney, VLCT Municipal Assistance Center.

VLCT News, February 2006

Engineering study• The comprehensive analysis and evaluation of available

pertinent information, and the application of appropriate principles, standards, guidance, and practices as contained in this Manual and other sources, for the purpose of deciding upon the applicability, design, operation, or installation of a traffic control device. An engineering study shall be performed by an engineer, or by an individual working under the supervision of an engineer, through the application of procedures and criteria established by the engineer. An engineering study shall be documented.

Engineering judgment• The evaluation of available pertinent information, and the

application of appropriate principles, standards, guidance, and practices as contained in this Manual and other sources, for the purpose of deciding upon the applicability, design, operation, or installation of a traffic control device. Engineering judgment shall be exercised by an engineer, or by an individual working under the supervision of an engineer, through the application of procedures and criteria established by the engineer. Documentation of engineering judgment is not required.

MUTCD 2009 edition• Part 1 - General• Part 2 - Signs• Part 3 - Markings• Part 4 - Highway Traffic Signals• Part 5 - Traffic Control Devices for Low-Volume

Roads• Part 6 - Temporary Traffic Control• Part 7 - Traffic Control For School Areas• Part 8 - Traffic Control For Railroad and Light

Rail Transit Grade Crossings• Part 9 – Traffic Control for Bicycle Facilities

2009 MUTCD - PDF or HTML

2009 Edition, dated December 2009 (PDF)Viewing the MUTCD

If you have difficulty viewing the MUTCD sections (in PDF format), youmay need to download the latest version of the Adobe Acrobat Reader

• Learn How To Extract PDF Images from the PDF version of the MUTCD. Complete 2009 MUTCD (27.18MB)• Individual Parts and Chapters • Cover, Table of Contents, and Introduction (1.42MB)• Part 1 - General (736KB)• Part 2 - Signs:• Chapter 2A - General (739KB)• Chapter 2B - Regulatory Signs, Barricades, and Gates (2.93MB) • Chapter 2C - Warning Signs and Object Markers (1.50MB)• Chapter 2D - Guide Signs - Conventional Roads (2.37MB)• Chapter 2E - Guide Signs - Freeways and Expressways (3.18MB)• Chapter 2F - Toll Road Signs (1.35MB)• Chapters 2G-2H - Preferential and Managed Lane Signs and General Information Signs (3.38MB)• Chapters 2I-2N - General Service Signs, Specific Service Signs, Tourist-Oriented Directional Signs,

Changeable Message Signs, Recreational and Cultural Interest Area Signs, and Emergency Management Signing (2.53MB)

• Part 3 - Markings (3.32MB)• Part 4 - Highway Traffic Signals (2.63MB)• Part 5 - Traffic Control Devices for Low-Volume Roads (1.07MB)• Part 6 - Temporary Traffic Control (4.72MB) • Part 7 - Traffic Controls for School Areas (941KB)• Part 8 - Traffic Control for Railroad and Light Rail Transit Grade Crossings (1.65MB)• Part 9 - Traffic Control for Bicycle Facilities (1.25MB)

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2009 Edition, dated December 2009 (HTML) Version has

Specific Service SignsChapter 2J.

General Service SignsChapter 2I.

General Information SignsChapter 2H.

Preferential and Managed Lane SignsChapter 2G.

Toll Road SignsChapter 2F.

Guide Signs—Freeways and ExpresswaysChapter 2E.

Guide Signs—Conventional RoadsChapter 2D.

Warning Signs and Object MarkersChapter 2C.

Regulatory Signs, Barricades, and GatesChapter 2B.

GeneralChapter 2A.

SIGNSPART 2.

GeneralChapter 1A.

GENERALPART 1.

Addresses

INTRODUCTION

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pedestrian

Searching in HTML

Purchase the MUTCD• American Association of State Highway

Transportation Officials, $120 • https://bookstore.transportation.org/item_details.

aspx?ID=1550• Institute of Transportation Engineers• http://www.ite.org/emodules/scriptcontent/Orders

/ProductDetail.cfm?pc=MUTCD-10• American Traffic Safety Services Association• http://www.atssa.com/galleries/default-file/Web-

MUTCD-Order-form1-19-10.pdf

Q & A Time

What goes around the world but stays in a corner?

A stamp

The federal document that is recognized as the national standard for all traffic

control devices is:

1. United States Specifications for Traffic Control

2. Federal Highway Administration’s Guidelines for Signing

3. Signing: All You Need to Know 4. Manual on Uniform Traffic Control

Devices (MUTCD)

Does the MUTCD apply to all roads and streets open to public travel in the United

States?

YESPg 2, Section 1A.07, paragraph 02-03 (c)

• 23 CFR 655.603 adopts the MUTCD as the national standard for all traffic control devices installed on any street, highway, bikeway, or private road open to public travel (see definition in Section 1A.13). When a State or other Federal agency manual or supplement is required, that manual or supplement shall be in substantial conformance with the National MUTCD.

• 23 CFR 655.603 also states that traffic control devices on all streets, highways, bikeways, and private roads open to public travel in each State shall be in substantial conformance with standards issued or endorsed by the Federal Highway Administrator.

Part 1General

Page 1

MUTCD changes

• Let’s review some changes to the MUTCD

Section 1A.13 – Meanings of text headings (Standard, Guidance, Option,

Support) relocated and clarified• Relocated from MUTCD Introduction to

Section 1A.13• Standard statements shall not be modified or

compromised based on engineering judgment or engineering study

Paragraphs are numbered!

Guidance statements are italicized

• Only English units are used in the text, tables, and figures of the 2009 MUTCD

Metric values have been removed from the text, figures, and tables

New Appendix A2 includes the

equivalent metric values for all English units used in the 2009

MUTCD

Compliance dates• New installations, replacements, rebuilds – must comply

immediately • New Table I-2 with specific compliance dates to retrofit

or replace existing devices to meet 11 of the new Standards in the 2009 MUTCD

Previously-established

dates

New compliance

date in 2009 edition

a=date est. for 2000 MUTCD; b=2003 MUTCD; c=2003 MUTCD revision

Section 1A.13 – Definitions

• All definitions now appear in Part 1 (Section 1A.13) and not in other Parts

• Approximately 70 new definitions have been added

• Approximately 35 existing definitions have been revised

Section 1A.15 – Abbreviations on traffic control devices – Table 1A-1• Additions, deletions

• Use on portable changeable message signs vs. use on fixed message signs and large permanent CMS

• Punctuation or characters other than letters or numerals should not be used on any signs

NO

Q & A Time

What get’s wetter and wetter the more it dries?

A towel

What terminology in the MUTCD indicates legal distinction

that affects liability?

a) Should b) Must

(pg 10, section 1A.13, paragraph 01)

c) Shall

What is NOT subject to the MUTCD?

a) Private drivesb) Parking areas and their driving aislesc) Roads with <200 ADT

(pg I-1, paragraph 03)

Find the section of the MUTCD where Definitions occur

a) Section 2A-10b) Section 1A-15c) Section 1A-13 (pgs 10-23)

Part 2Signs

Page 27

New chapters and revisions for Part 2

• Relocation of gates and barricades to Chapter 2B • Relocation of object markers from Part 3 to Chapter

2C• New Chapter 2F – Toll Road Signs• New Chapter 2G – Preferential and Managed Lanes• New Chapter 2H – General Information Signs• New Chapter 2I – General Service Signs• New Chapter 2L – Changeable Message Signs

Many new symbols

Communicating with Signs

Section 2A.10 & Table 2A-5 Sign Colors

• Optional use of fluorescent colors including fluorescent red

• Added purple for panels and plaques for electronic toll collection registration requirements

• Removed yellow for school area signs• Require fluorescent yellow-green color for school

area signs • Optional use of fluorescent yellow-green color for

pedestrian and bicycle application signs• VTrans standard practice - see VTrans Guidelines

(pg. 10)

New option for the use offluorescent colors

Fluorescent yellow Standard yellow

Agencies can decide whether to illuminate overhead signs based on their own policies and studies• Guidance recommending illumination of

overhead signs was deleted, because the minimum maintained retroreflectivity levels for overhead signs (2003 MUTCD Revision 2 adopted December 2007) provide for adequate performance of these signs

• Vermont guidelines - overhead signs are Type 9 background and Type 9 text. All ground mounted Type B are type 3 background and Type 9 text

LEDs on signs• Optional for individual use within the border, or

within the legend or symbol

• Shall not be placed within the background of a sign

• Shall not be grouped as a “de-facto” beacon

• For STOP or YIELD signs, LEDs may be placed within one border width from the border

Tables 2B-1, 2C-2, 2D-1, 2H-1, 2I-1New and Revised sign size tables

Tables at beginning of each section• Updated/expanded table for regulatory sign sizes

• New detailed sign size tables:Regulatory signs and plaques 2B-1

– Warning signs and plaques 2C-2– Conventional road guide signs 2D-1– Freeway/expressway guide signs 2E-1– General service signs 2I-1– General information signs 2H-1

Minimum sign size may be decreased by 6 inches in alleys that have restrictive physical

conditionsExample: No Parking is 24x24, could be 12x12

Table 2B-1, page 48

Graduate towards conventional size – use minimum sparingly –try to keep consistent throughout municipality

Section 2A-12 SymbolsSymbols from one sign type shall not be

used on a different sign type

The playground symbol that is used on warning signs cannot be used on guide signs

Not acceptable!

Section 2A-13 Word MessagesSign letter size should be based on

1 inch of letter height per 30 feet of legibility

• Based on 20/40 vision

• 1988 and earlier MUTCDs were 1 inch per 50 feet of legibility based on 20/20 vision

• 2003 MUTCD recommended 1 inch per 40 feet based on 20/33 vision

Section 2D.43 Street Name Signs Lettering for place names

and destinations• Mixed-case lettering required for names of places,

streets, and highways for guide signs• Mixed-case lettering consists of an initial upper-

case letter followed by lower-case letters• Letter height is specified as the height of the initial

upper-case letter

Enhanced conspicuityFigure 2A.1

New options for flags, plaques, and reflective strips on posts.

Sign placement• Signs should only be co-located with same type

of sign. Street name signs are an exception –they can be mounted above a STOP or Yield sign.

• Sign post shall be NCHRP compliant. See VTransTraffic Engineering Instructions (TEI) for square tube sign posts

Heights and Lateral Locations of Signs – Figure 2A-2

E-121 State standard

Heights and Lateral Locations of Signs

Figure 2A-2

Figure 2A-4Relative

locations of regulatory,

warning, and guide signs for intersections

200’ recommended –VTrans has gone to 150’ due to street

designs

Q & A Time

What is it that you can keep after giving it to someone else?

Your word

What Table in the MUTCD covers New and Revised Sign Sizes for

Warning signs and plaques?

a) Table 2A-5b) Table 2B-1c) Table 2C-2 (pgs 105-107)

What section of the MUTCD will you find information on street

name signs?

a) Section 2A.12b) Section 2A.13c) Section 2D.43 (pg 161)

Revisions toChapter 2B

Regulatory Signs, Barricades, and Gates

Page 45

Larger sizes for certain signs on multi-lane roads with speed limits of 40 mph or more

Table 2B-1. Regulatory Sign and Plaque Sizes

Larger sizes for STOP signsTable 2B-1

• 36 inches for any STOP sign facing a multi-lane approach

• 36 inches for any multi-lane side road approach to a multi-lane road

• 36 inches for any side road approach to a multi-lane road with a speed limit of 45 mph or higher

Section 2B.04 Right-of-Way at Intersections

New Guidance on factors considered when establishing intersection right-of-way control

Based upon:• Vehicular, bicycle and pedestrian

volumes• Number and angle of approaches• Approach speeds• Sight distance• Reported crash performance

The use of 2-WAY, 3-WAY, and

4-WAY plaques is prohibited

ALL-WAY plaque remains as a shall if STOP signs are used on all approaches

Section 2B.05STOP Sign &

ALL WAY Plaque

New plaque that may be used with STOP sign in special conditions

Section 2B.05 & Figure 2B-1STOP Sign & ALL WAY Plaque

Signs on back of STOP/YIELD signs and stickers and other messages on STOP/YIELD signs and posts

Cannot obscure shape of STOP or YIELD sign

Section 2B.10 STOP Sign or YIELD Sign Placement Table 2A-2, 2A-3

No more than 2 posts in 8’ span, at least 3’ apart Roadside Design Guide

Signs mounted back-to-back with STOP or YIELD signs should stay within the edges


STOP bar can be placed up to 50’ before sign

Variant of “Yield Here to Pedestrians” signs for State laws requiring full stop

Section 2B.11 Yield Here To Pedestrians Signs & Stop Here For

Pedestrians Signs – Figure 2B-2

Pg 54 & 55

Section 2B.12 In-Street and Overhead Pedestrian Crossing Signs

Figure 2B-2

• Placement locations• Background may be fluorescent

yellow or fluorescent yellow-green• Supports for in-street pedestrian

crossing signs must be designed to bend over and bounce back when struck

In-street pedestrian crossing signs

Section 2B.12 continued

For Class 1 you maintain, you put signs out

For Class 1 you don’t maintain, you need a

VTrans permit

Conditions: a) not to be left out overnight; b)

walkways to crosswalk are maintained

This sign should only be used at unsignalized

intersectionsDo not place sign in middle

of crosswalk – place on either side of crosswalk

Section 2B.13 Speed Limit Sign

Studies for speed zones clarified

Pg 56 & 57

Sections 2B.13 (09) and Section 2C.38

Reduced Speed Limit Ahead (W3-5) sign

recommended36 x 36 – VTrans requires 2 posts

Speed limit reductions of more than 10 mph

A woman thought she could talk her way out of a speeding ticket until the officer looked in the back seat of her car and saw her dog.

Other topics covered 2-B

• Movement of traffic through lighted intersection

• Roundabout signage• Overhead and lane signs• New enforcement optional signs• Pedestrian crossing signs• Jughandles, do not pass, truck lanes,

parking and divided highway signs

Q & A Time

Are you excited like this little guy

for the next question?

Pick me, pick me, I know the answer!!

Speed limit reductions of more than ??? miles per hour

recommends a Reduced Speed Ahead sign

a) 5 mphb) 10 mphc) 15 mph

pg 124, section 2C.38, paragraph 01

Chapter 2C Warning Signs and

Object MarkersPage 103

Some word message signs are deleted

Table 2C-1 Page 105 – example: Hill W7-1 says Hill, sign on page 117 shows symbol picture

Also – STOP AHEAD, YIELD AHEAD, SIGNAL AHEAD

Table 2C-2. Warning Signs & Plaque Signs Figure 2C-5. Miscellaneous Warning Signs

Fluorescent yellow-green color

Optional for pedestrian, bike, and playground signs

Required for school and school bus signs

Section 2C.03 Design of Warning Signs

Page 10 of guidance handout

36” x 36” minimum size for multi-lane conventional roads

Sections 2C.04 Size of Warning Signs & 2C.36 Advance Traffic Control

Signs – Figure 2C-6

Guidelines for advance placement of warning signs – Table 2C-4

• Change to 20/40 visual acuity

• Assumption of legibility distance of 180 feet for Condition A (speed reduction and lane change)

• Assumption of minimum legend size of 6 inch lettering; if less, add 100 feet

• Assumption of legibility distance of 250 feet for Condition B (stop and deceleration)

Horizontal alignment signs based upon curve differential speed

Ball Bank Indicator

Amy Gamble 802-828-1055

Section 2C.08 Advisory Speed Plaque (W13-1P)

New criteria for the determination of advisory speeds

A. An accelerometer that provides a direct determination of sidefriction factors

B. A design speed equationC. A traditional ball-bank indicator using the following criteria:

1. 16 degrees of ball-bank for speeds of 20 mph or less2. 14 degrees of ball-bank for speeds of 25 to 30 mph3. 12 degrees of ball-bank for speeds of 35 mph and

higher

Support: Among the established engineering practices that are appropriate for the determination of the recommended advisory speed for a horizontal curve are the following:

New variations of combination horizontal alignment-intersection warning signsTable on pg 105 – verify size before ordering – all W1-10 series are 36x36, requiring 2 posts

Section 2C.11 Combination Horizontal Alignment/Intersection Signs (W1-10 Series) – Figure 2C-1

W1-10a

W1-10c

(L/R)

W1-10b

W1-10e

When should you put up a warning

sign?

Chevron signs may be mounted at 4-foot height

Section 2C.09 Chevron Alignment Sign (W1-8)

Figures 2C-1 and 2C-2

Table 2C-2. Warning Sign and Plaque Sizes

Chevron minimum size is 18 x 24 NOT 12 x 18

New table for spacing of Chevron SignsNote: Using advisory speed to get that spacing

Advisory Curve SignSpeed Radius Spacing(mph) (feet) (feet)

15 or less Less than 200 4020 to 30 200 to 400 8035 to 45 401 to 700 12050 to 60 701 to 1,250 160

More than 60 More than 1,250 200

Table 2C-6. Typical Spacing of Chevron Alignment Signs on Horizontal Curves

Table 2C-5. Horizontal Alignment Sign Selection

New table for selecting appropriate type of curve warning sign

New shoulder signs and plaques – all optionalVTrans mandate for safety edge on all state projects

Section 2C.31 Shoulder Signs Figure 2C-6

W8-25 W8-9 W8-17

W8-23W8-4

W8-17P

Offset side roads and double side roads

Maximum of 3 side roadsMaximum of 2 on one side

Section 2C.46 Intersection Warning Signs and Plaques – Figure 2C-9

W2-8

W2-7L W2-7R

New sign and plaque for combined pedestrian/bicycle crossing

Section 2C.49 Vehicular Traffic Warning Signs – Figure 2C-10

W11-15 & W11-15P Combination of 2 signs – designated multi-use paths

May be used to alert road users in advance of locations where unexpected entries into the roadway might occur or where shared use of the roadway by pedestrians, animals, or equestrians might occur. Some symbols are state specific.

Section 2C.50 Non-Vehicular Warning Signs – Figure 2C-11

New sign warning of a traffic pattern revisionNew or for 6 months

W23-2

Section 2C.52 New Traffic Pattern Ahead – Figure 2C-6

Order of names and use of arrows when two street names appear on an advance street name plaque

Section 2C.58 Advance Street Name Plaque – Figure 2C-12

street on left displayed first

Plaques for use when STOP signs control all but one approach to the intersection

Need engineering judgment – very few occasions when warning and advisory sign are used

Section 2C.59 Cross Traffic Does Not Stop – Figure 2C-9

Cannot be used alone

Can ONLY be used to supplement another sign

Warning – not for bike lanes

Section 2C.60 Share The Road Plaque – Figure 2C-12

W16-1P

“New” plaque may be mounted above a regulatory or advance warning sign to warn road users about a new regulation or condition

Section 2C.62 New Plaque Figure 2C-12

W16-15P

Object markers have been relocated from Part 3

Sections 2C.63, 64, 65, 66

Figure 2C-13

Section 2C.65 Object Markers for Obstructions Adjacent to the Roadway

Where Type 3 object markers are applied to the approach ends of guardrail and other roadside appurtenances, sheeting without a substrate shall be directly affixed to the approach end of the guardrail in a rectangular shape conforming to the size of the approach end of the guardrail, with alternating black and retroreflective yellow stripes sloping downward at an angle of 45 degrees toward the side of the obstruction on which traffic is to pass.

Other Topics Covered 2-C

• Ramp, exit and curve speed signs

• Surface condition signs

• Roundabout and traffic circle warning signs

Q & A Time

What is put on the table, cut, but never eaten?

A pack of cards

What Table in the MUTCD covers Guidelines for Advance

Placement of Warning Signs?

a) Table 2C-2b) Table 2C-4c) Table 2C-6

pg 108

The correct size for Chevron alignment signs is:

a) 18 x 24b) 12 x 18c) 18 x 18

pg 105, Table 2C-2

Revisions toChapter 2D – 2NGuide Signs for

Conventional RoadsPage 137

Street Name Signs

Four components regarding street name signs

1) Letter size2) Letter style 3) Retroreflectivity4) Sign blade

MUTCD Page I-5, Table I-2Target Compliance Dates

• Section 2D.43 Street Name Signs – Jan. 9, 2012– 6” & 4.5” letter height for signs 40mph <

• Section 2D.43 Street Name Signs – Dec. 22, 2018– 8” & 6” letter height for signs 45>– 12” & 9” letter height for overhead signs

• This applies only to letter height and not retroreflectivity

Updating Current Street Name Signs

• 4” all cap or mixed case lettering signs need replacing by January 2012

• 6” all cap signs may remain in place until January 2018 unless:– They don’t meet retroreflectivity requirements– They are stolen or vandalized – They are on an unsafe sign post

Option to use all upper-case letters for place names and street names is deleted

Section 2D.05 Lettering Style

Street Name Signs – Size/StyleSection 2D.06 Size of Lettering

& Table 2D-2• Should be composed of initial upper-case letters

at least 6” in height and lower-case letters at least 4.5” in height.– This applies immediately to all new street name signs

• Supplementary lettering for St., Ave., or Rd., or the section of the city (such as NW) may be initial upper-case letters at least 3 inches in height and lower-case letters at least 2.25 inches in height.

Section 2D.43 Street Name SignsTable 2D-2

Street Name Signs - Sign Size

3” 6” & 4.5”3” & 2.25”

Street Name Signs – Letter Size• On two-lane local roads with speed limits of 25

mph or less, 4-inch initial upper-case letters with 3-inch lower-case letters may be used.

• A road functionally classified as a local road with a speed limit of 25 mph or less may have the option of having the smaller 4” initial upper letter.

(in Vermont, rural local roads are classified as functional class 9 and urban local streets as functional class 19)

FHWA Functional Classification System

• How the nation's network of streets and highways are ranked according to the type of service they provide.

• Determines how travel is "channelized" within the roadway network.– by defining how roads & streets play in serving the

flow of trips through a highway network• VTrans Classification is Class 1, 2, 3, 4 & Trail• FHWA Functional Classification Guidelines

http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/planning/fctoc.htm

FHWA Functional Classification System

Classification• Local roads provide a higher

degree of access but lower travel mobility-flow.

• Collectors provide a mixture of access and mobility.

• Arterials, with two sub-classes “minor” and “principal,” provide lower access and higher mobility with the functional standards for minor and principal arterials mobility being relatively high for through traffic.

http://www.aot.state.vt.us/Planning/Documents/HighResearch/Publications/pub.htm

Vermont Agency of

Transportation

2009 Functional Classification

Map

Street Name Signs – Sign Blade• Functional Class 9 – rural local roads• Functional Class 19 – urban local roads

– Speed limit 25mph or less are eligible for 8” blade with 4” upper case and 3” lower case letters

• All urban or rural major/minor collectors need to have 12” blade with 6” upper case and 4.5” lower case

• All urban or rural major/minor arterials need to have 12” blade with 6” upper case and 4.5” lower case

• If your road is listed under the – 2007 (Route Log) AADTs for Town Highway Major Collectors, or

the– 2009 (Route Log) AADTs for Federal Aid Urban Streets, it

requires the use of a 12” blade. See below report for individual listings.

http://www.aot.state.vt.us/planning/Documents/TrafResearch/Publications/pub.htm

Class 3 & 4

Street Name Signs – Sign Blade• According to MUTCD Section 2D.43 paragraph

06, the 8” blades with 4” letters may be used on local roads with speed limits of 25 mph or less. VTrans’ interpretation is that “local” does not include Class 1 TH and that the speed references the driver who is reading the sign, not the driver on the street being named.– If I am on Town Rd. posted at 35 mph, reading the

sign for Local St. which is posted at 25 mph, the street name sign for Local St. should be on a 12”blade with 6” letters.

Street Name Signs – Sign BladeMUTCD Table 2D-1 states that the street name sign is12” high for conventional roads, with 8” minimum size.

Street Name Signs – Sign Blade• Note that

VTrans has been installing 12” blades on 2-posts when the length is equal to or greater than 48”.

Only alternatives to the green background color for Street Name signs are blue, brown, or white*

* A black legend shall be used if a white background is used, otherwise the legend color shall be white

Section 2D.43 Street Name Signs

E911 – Private Street Name Signs• All municipalities are signed onto E911• Streets with 3+ buildings generally require E911 signing.• If you purchased the signs originally, have no

documentation of future upgrades, you are required to replace.

• If you required the homeowner to purchase the signs, have it documented in an ordinance, homeowner is required to upgrade sign.

• Developers – if you’ve documented in an ordinance that developer is responsible for signs, sidewalks, culverts, etc., then they will be responsible for future upgrades.

E911 Supplementary Address Signs

• E911 recommends but does not require • Need determined by each municipality• No color standard • Minimum 3” letter• Needs to be reflective• Usually 6” x 18” size• Needs to be posted at the access area to the

residence, typically seen on mailbox• Divided streets may want to post resident house

numbers on street name sign

Guide signs should have no more than 3 lines of information

Section 2D.37 Destination Signs Figure 2D-7

V.S.A. Title 10 Section 493 On-premise signs

• § 493. On-premise signs• Owners or occupants of real property may erect and maintain on the property, on-premise signs advertising

the sale or lease of the property or activities being conducted on the property. Those signs shall be subject to the regulations set forth below.

• (1) On-premise signs may be erected or maintained, with a total area of not more than one hundred fifty square feet, advertising activities being conducted on the same premises. However, this limitation does not apply to signs existing on May 1, 1971, or attached to or part of the building in which the activities are being carried on. An on-premise sign shall not be located more than fifteen hundred feet from a main entrance from the highway to the activity or premises advertised. The fifteen hundred foot distance shall be measured along the centerline of the highway or highways between the sign and a main entrance. A main entrance shall be a principal, private roadway or driveway which leads from a public highway to the advertised activity. For the purposes of this subdivision, premises shall not include land which is separated from the activity by a public highway, or other intervening land use not related to the advertised activity. Undeveloped land or farmland shall not be considered as an intervening land use.

• (2) A sign advertising the sale or lease of real estate by the owner or an agent shall not have an area of more than six square feet, including the panel and the frame. Signs attached to "for sale" or "for lease" signs which state "sold," "sale pending," "sale under contract" or similar messages shall not be permitted.

• (3) A permitted on-premise sign shall not extend more than twenty-five feet above the ground level or, if the sign is attached to or is part of a building, ten feet above the roof of the building. However, this limitation does not apply to signs existing on November 1, 1967. (1967, No. 333 (Adj. Sess.), § 13, eff. March 23, 1968; amended 1969, No. 92, § 10, eff. April 19, 1969; 1971, No. 115, § 2, eff. April 26, 1971; 1983, No. 167 (Adj. Sess.), § 8; 1993, No. 121 (Adj. Sess.), § 8.)

• If you have any further questions regarding proper signage please call:

• Ms. Toni MaySign Control VT. Agency of Transportation802-828-2651

Mr. John KesslerChair of the Travel Information Council TransportationAgency of Commerce & Community Development802 828 5202

• OBDS SIGNS (Official Business Directory Sign – OBDS)• SAMPLE OF AN OBDS SIGNS• Specifications for business logos to be provided by Applicant for Official Business Directional Sign

• Shown: Cluster of OBDS SIGNS Measurement : OBDS Signs measure 16 inches high by 72 inches long.

• Logo Size:13-3/4” wide by 14” high1-1/2” radius on all four cornersPlease note on the back of the logo which side is the top.

• Material: Scotchlight #3290 engineer grade vinyl sheeting – Reflective Silver (VT 28), self-adhesive, with pressure-sensitive backing:

OR

Scotchcal #3650 vinyl sheeting – Non-reflective white, black, red, etc.,self-adhesive, with pressure-sensitive backing;

OR equivalent.Paint: Good quality, bulletin grade or weather-resistant exterior grade.Colors: No restrictions on background or foreground colors.Acquired: Through the State of Vermont :Cost: Fee $175.00 – Subsequent fee $125.00

• For further information about signs please contact:

Toni MayOBDS Program ManagerTravel Information CouncilVT. Agency of Transportation802-828-2651E-mail: [email protected]

• Photo displays an example of sign placement• To download an OBDS application with instructions in PDF format

please click here.

New guide signs for circular intersections

Section 2D.38 Destination Signs at Circular Intersections – Figure 2D-8

Route and auxiliary signs combined on a green background

Section 2D.12 Design of Route Sign Auxiliaries

Recommended order of two street names on an advance street name sign

Section 2D.44 Advance Street Name Signs – Figure 2D-10

No pictographs

Shall supplement rather than be used instead of the Street Name signs at intersection

Down arrows shall always be vertical and positioned directly over the approximate center of each applicable lane

Section 2E.19 Arrows for Interchange Guide Signs

Figures 2E-4 and 2E-8

Other Topics in Section 2-D through 2-N

• Route and lane designation signs• Overhead route and lane signs• Multi-lane and interchange guide signs• Community guide signs• Signs and plaques sizes for freeway• Abbreviation• Toll roads and freeway signage• Lane management signs

Other Topics in Section 2-D through 2-N

• Ferry terminal signs• General and specific service signs• Changeable message signs• Recreational and cultural interest area

signs

Q & A Time

Huh? You talking to me?

I’m still celebrating St. Patrick’s Day?

What Table covers the recommended minimum height for

street name signs?

a) Table 2C-5b) Table 2C-6c) Table 2D-2 (pg 163)

What Table covers the Conventional Road Guide Sign Sizes?

a) Table 2C-6b) Table 2D-1c) Table 2D-2

(pg 139)

Revisions toPart 3 – Markings

Page 347

Section 3A.02 Standardization of Application

• Allowed until old markings can be removed or obliterated, but…

• Only with material that is “approximately the same color as the pavement”

Section 3B.01 Yellow Center Line Pavement Markings and Warrants

A single solid yellow center line shall not be used as a center line marking on a two-way roadway

Sections 3B.02 and 3B.10Figure 3B-15

Minimum taper lengths for longitudinal lines changed from Standard to Guidance– Urban: 100 feet – Rural: 200 feet

Section 3B.04 White LaneLine Pavement Markings

Dotted (not broken) lane lines shall be used for non-continuing lanes:

- Lane drops (wide dotted)- Auxiliary lanes (wide dotted)- Acceleration lanes (normal width dotted)- Deceleration lanes (normal width dotted)

Applies on freeways, expressways, and conventional roads

Lane drops on conventional roads

Figure 3B-11

Section 3B.04 White Lane Line Pavement Markings – Table I-2

Compliance date for replacing existing broken lane lines with

dotted lane lines fornon-continuing lanes

• December 31, 2016 or resurfacing, whichever occurs first

Section 3B.16Stop and Yield Lines

• Stop lines shall not be used where drivers are required by law to yield rather than come to a full stop

• Yield lines should not be used in advance of crosswalks across a roundabout approach or departure – Page 399

• Stop lines and yield lines may be “staggered” on a lane-by-lane basis

Page 382

Section 3B.18 Crosswalk Markings

• > 4 travel lanes,

• Speed limit > 40 mph, and

• ADT > 12,000 without raised median or ped refuge, or > 15,000 with raised median or ped refuge

New marked crosswalks alone, without other measures designed to reduce speeds, shorten crossing distance, enhance driver awareness of crossing, and/or provide active warning of pedestrian presence, should not be installed across uncontrolled roadways with:

No need for crosswalk at stop locationMidway – yes, need sign

VTrans preferred Crosswalk Pattern

Applies to all crosswalks – 8’ apart for longitudinal bars

Page 384 shows all acceptable patterns

Bricks accepted with two white lines on either

side

Section 3B.22 Speed Reduction

Markings

Added as an optionhttp://safety.fhwa.dot.gov

New Chapter 3J – Section 3J.01 Longitudinal Rumble Strip

Other Topics in Part 3

• Optional use of Raised Pavement Markers (RPM) and placement

• Optional symbol, arrows and placement of RPMs

• Turning lane marking• Approach markings• Roundabout markings single to multi lanes• Marking for toll areas


• Delineator application - for guardrails, barriers and roadside

• Color pavements - crosswalks and channelizing devices

Q & A Time

The more you take away the larger it becomes. What is it?

A hole

What SHALL NOT be used as a center line marking on a two-way

roadway?

a) single solid yellow lineb) double solid yellow linec) double lines with passing sections

pg 349, section 3B.01, paragraph 05

Dotted (not broken) lane lines SHALL be used for non-continuing

lanes

a) Trueb) False

pg 356, section 3B.04, paragraph 06

Part 4 Highway Traffic

SignalsPage 433

Section 4B.01 General• Words such as pedestrians and

bicyclists are used redundantly in selected Sections of Part 4 to encourage sensitivity to these elements of “traffic”

Section 4B.02 Basis of Installation or Removal of Traffic

Control Signals

The selection and use of traffic control signals should be based on an engineering study of roadway traffic and other conditions.

Section 2B.54 No Turn on Red Signs• R10-11 series, sign photos (page 95)• R10-11 series (24x30, 30x36, 36x36) sign sizes (page 48)• Where a right turn on red is to be prohibited, a symbolic

NO TURN ON RED shall be used when an engineering study finds that one or more of the following conditions exist.a) Inadequate sign distance to vehicles approaching from the left

(or right, if applicable);b) Geometrics or operational characteristics of the intersection that

might result in unexpected conflicts;c) An exclusive pedestrian phase;d) An unacceptable number of pedestrian conflicts with right-turn-on-

red maneuvers, especially involving children, older pedestrians, or persons with disabilities;

e) More than three right-turn-on-red accidents reported in a 12-month period fro the particular approach; or

f) The skew angle of the intersecting roadways creates difficulty for drivers to see traffic approaching from their left.

Section 4C.01 Studies and Factors for Justifying Traffic Control Signals

(Areas of analysis)• Warrant 1. Eight-Hour Vehicular Volume• Warrant 2. Four-Hour Vehicular Volume• Warrant 3. Peak Hour• Warrant 4. Pedestrian Volume• Warrant 5. School Crossing• Warrant 6. Coordinated Signal Syatem• Warrant 7. Crash Experience• Warrant 8. Roadway Network• Warrant 9. Intersection Near a Grade Crossing

Section 4D.02 Responsibility for Operation and Maintenance

• Prior to installing any traffic control signal… The responsible agency should provide for the maintenance of the traffic control signal and all its appurtenances in a competent manner.

Section 4D.03 Provisions for Pedestrians

• Paragraph 02 The design and operation of traffic control signals shall take into consideration the needs of pedestrian as well as vehicular traffic.

Part 5 Traffic Control Devices for

Low-Volume RoadsPage 531

Part 5 is not applicable on neighborhood residential streets

Part 5 applies only outside of built-up areas of cities, towns, and communities, and it shall have a traffic volume of less

than 400 ADT

ApplicableNot applicable

Typical sizes for signs and plaques on low-volume roads are the same sizes as for conventional roads

Minimums apply if you meet 400 ADT

Table 5A-1 Sign and Plaque Sizes on Low-Volume Roads

For consistency with Part 3, center lines may be placed on low-volume roads with or without edge lines

Section 5E.02Center Line Markings

Revised to stay consistent with

Part 8 regarding grade

crossings

Chapter 5F. Traffic Control for Highway-Rail Grade Crossings

Chapter 5H. Traffic Control for School Areas

New chapter regarding traffic

control for school areas on low-volume roads

Q & A Time

What’s wrong with this picture?

Part 5 Applies Only Outside of Built-up Areas of Cities, Towns, and communities, and it SHALL

have a traffic volume of less than ???? ADT

a) 400 ADTb) 450 ADTc) 500 ADT

pg 531, section 5A.01, paragraph 01

Revisions to Part 6 Temporary Traffic

ControlPage 547

Guidance on lengths of short

tapers and downstream

tapers

Figure 6C-2 Types of Tapers

and Buffer Spaces

Minimum length for one-lane, two-way traffic taper added

Type of Taper Taper LengthMerging Taper at least L

Shifting Taper at least 0.5 L

Shoulder Taper at least 0.33 L

One-Lane, Two-Way Traffic Taper 50 feet minimum, 100 feet maximum

Downstream Taper 100 feet per lane

Table 6C-3 Taper Length Criteria for Temporary Traffic Control Zones

Clarified OPTION for self-regulating traffic movement through a one-lane, 2-way constriction

- If work space is short (adequate sight distance)

- If on a low-volume street

Section 6C.10 One-Lane, Two-

Way Traffic ControlFigure 6H-10

Section 6E.02 High-Visibility Safety Apparel

- Required for ALL WORKERS within the public right of way

- Class 2 or 3 of ANSI/ISEA 107-2004

- Applies to all roads, not just those on the Federal-aid system

- Option for law enforcement and first responders to use new ANSI “public safety vests”

- Firefighters and law enforcement are exempted from the requirement under certain conditions

- December 31, 2011 compliance date

Section 6E.04 Automated Flagger Assistance Devices

• Two Types– STOP/SLOW – Red/Yellow Lens

• AFADs shall only be used in situations where there is only one lane of approaching traffic in the direction to be controlled

• AFADs are not traffic control signals, they shall not be used as a substitute for or a replacement for a continuously operating temporary traffic control signal

• Great for short projects, such as bridge cleaning, not meant to be left there

Section 6F.08 Road (Street) Closed Sign (R11-2)

• The ROAD (STREET) CLOSED sign shall not be used where road user flow is maintained through the TTC zone with a reduced number of lanes on the existing roadway or where the actual closure is some distance beyond the sign.

Section 6G.01 Typical Applications

• A TTC plan should be developed for any planned special event that will have an impact on the traffic on any street or highway.

Bike RaceParade


• Automated Flagger Assistance Devices (AFAD)

• New speed limit signs in TTC zone• Signs for center lane closure and new

traffic patterns• Shoulder drop off• Temporary delineators, RPM and their

uses patterns, colors and spacing

Temporary Traffic Control Device Reminder

Q & A Time

Don’t stop now, we’re 2/3

through the MUTCD

marathon

What Section of the MUTCD Provides Details on High-Visibility Safety Apparel?

a) Section 5E.02b) Section 6D.03c) Section 6E.02 (pg 566)

Revisions to Part 7 Traffic Control for

School AreasPage 731

• Clarification has been added that the application of the minimum sizes to the identified signs is only where there are low traffic volumes and speeds are 30 mph or lower, as determined by an engineering judgment.

Section 7B.01 Size of School SignsTable 7B-1 Sign & Plaque Sizes

FYG color required for all school warning signs

Section 7B.07 Sign Color for School Warning Signs – Figure 7B-1

New plaques for school area signing

Existing school area

signs

New plaque

designs

Section 7B.08 School Sign and Plaques

New symbol sign replaces the S3-1 word message sign

Not required to use – based on individual situations

S3-1

Section 7B.13 School Bus Stop Ahead Sign – Figure 7B-1

New S3-2 sign to warn of school

bus turn around locations

S3-2

Section 7B.14 School Bus Turn Ahead

Warning of school zone in close proximity to an intersection

S1-1

W16-6POptional

Section 7B.08 School Sign and Plaques – Figure 7B-1

Flexibility to post as a BEGIN HIGHER FINES

ZONE sign oras a plaque below the

School Zone sign

New figure illustrating higher fines school zone without a school crossing

Section 7B.10 Higher Fines Zone Signs and Plaques – Figure 7B-2

In order to do this you have to have ordinance specific to speed limit in school zone

+R2-10

R2-6P

R2-11 S5-3

S5-2

R2-10

Section 7B.10 Higher Fines Zones Signs & Plaques

Section 7B.15 School Speed Limit Assembly

New signs for higher fines

school zones

Schoolchildren symbol may be used

on in-street signsat school crossings

Needs to be a designated school

route

R1-6cR1-6b

Section 7B.12 School Crossing Assembly & Figure 7B-6

Section 7D.04 Uniform of AdultCrossing Guards

ANSI 1007-2004 Standard High-Visibility Safety Apparel

Student Patrols Adult Xing GuardsCLASS 1 CLASS 2

No longer allowed


• Operating procedures for adult crossing guards

http://www.aot.state.vt.us/progdev/Sections/LTF/SRTS/PDFs_for_linking/Guide%20for

%20Adult%20Crossing%20Guards.pdf

Q & A Time

What can run but never walks, has a mouth but never talks, has a head but never weeps, has a bed but never sleeps?

A river

What Section of the MUTCD Discusses Sign Color for School

Warning Signs?

a) Section 7B.01b) Section 7B.07c) Section 7B.12

(pg 734, section 7B.07, paragraph 01)

Revisions to Part 8 Traffic Control for

Railroad and Light Rail Transit (LRT) Crossing

GradePage 747

Parts 8 and 10 are combined

• Reduces redundancy and cross-references

• “Grade crossing” is a new generic term• Chapter 8C (Illumination) becomes

Section 8A.06

Vermont Railroad• Who maintains what?

– Railroad• All signs on the crossbuck• Signals and signal arms• Tracks

– Town/ State• All approach signs to tracks• All pavement markings

– The railroad MUST be notified of all work being performed within the Foul Zone of the tracks (25 feet from the center of the tracks in each direction). If the railroad deems it necessary for a railroad flagger to be present then a fee is required.

YIELD or STOP signs required at passive highway-rail grade crossings (Dec. 31, 2019 compliance date)

Section 8B.04 Crossbuck Assemblies with YIELD or STOP Signs at Passive Grade

Crossings & Figure 8B-2

Stop lines shall be used on paved roadways at crossings controlled by

active devices

If it’s signalized, no yield needed

Call Railroad is you need to work in their area

Section 8B.28 Stop and Yield Lines &

Figure 8B-6

Q & A Time

Knock KnockWho’s there?

StopwatchStopwatch who?

Stopwatch you’re doing and answer these questions

What section addresses CrossbuckAssemblies with YIELD or STOP

Signs at Passive Grade Crossings?

a) Section 8B.01b) Section 8B.04c) Section 8B.28

(pg 754)

Stop lines SHALL be used on paved roadways at crossings controlled by active devices

a) Trueb) False

(pg 766, section 8B.28, paragraph 01)

Revisions to Part 9 Traffic Control for Bicycle Facilities

Page 789

Section 9B.04 Bike Lane Signs and Plaques

Bicycle lane regulatory signs are no longer required

R3-17

R3-17aP R3-17bP

New sign for lanes that are too narrow for

bicyclists and motorists to operate side-by-side

No longer required, butmay be used

R4-11

Section 9B.06 Bicycles May Use Full Lane Sign

For modes other than bikes and pedestrians

R9-13 R9-14

Section 9B.09 Selective Exclusion Signs

New sign & plaque for combined pedestrian/bicycle crossing

W11-15

W11-15P

Section 9B.18 Bicycle Warning & Combined Bicycle/Pedestrian Signs

Revised legend on W5-4a signSome codes have stayed the same but signs have changed

W5-4a

Section 9B.19 Other Bicycle Warning Signs

Different language, same code

New shared lane pavement marking

Section 9C.07 Shared Lane Marking - Figure 9C-9

Q & A Time

Feed me and I live, yet give me a drink and I die. What am I?

A fire

What section addresses Bicycle Warning & Combined

Bicycle/Pedestrian Signs?

a) Section 9B.06b) Section 9B.09c) Section 9B.18 (pg 796)

Sign Posts and Placement

Call Dig Safe – 1-888-344-7233

1) It is the law!

2) Must give advance notice of 48 business hours in VT.

3) Must call when working within 100’ of underground utility facilities, including private property.

4) Must call for most earth penetrating activities, even small jobs.

5) Mark out the area you’ll excavate with white paint, flags or stakes.

6) Review the Locate Request Form so you’ll know what information you need when calling Dig Safe.

7) In an emergency, notify Dig Safe with the location of the emergency ASAP.

Section 2A.18 Mounting HeightSection 2A.19 Lateral Offset

Figures 2A-2 and 2A-3

Sections 2A.18 and 2A.19 have been clarified and Figures 2A-2 and 2A-3 have been revised to conform to the text to clarify the minimum horizontal offset from the edge of the travel lane and/or shoulder.

Figure 2A-2

Figure

2A-3

Section 2A.19 Lateral Offset Section 2A.21 Posts and

Mountings• Sign supports within the clear zone SHALL be breakaway,

yielding, or shielded

• Overhead sign supports SHALL have a barrier or crash cushion to shield them if they are within the clear zone

• VTrans uses and recommends 2” Square Steel Tube 12 gauge

• AASHTO developed criteria to ensure that all sign supports yield when struck by a vehicle – based on NCHRP-350

Crashworthy Sign SupportsAny device that is used to display the traffic sign is known as the sign support, which consists of the vertical post and, if needed, any stiffeners onto which the sign panel is attached. Most posts for roadside post-mounted signs are one of the following types:

• Wood post • U-channel steel post• Square or round tube steel post • I-beam steel post

Wood Posts• Wood posts are frequently used, especially

in regions where wood is economical compared to metal type supports. These posts usually come in sizes of 4 x 4 inches to 6 x 8 inches. All posts above 4 x 4 inch nominal size must be drilled perpendicular to traffic flow to allow the post to break away if struck by a motor vehicle.

• Can use 4 x 6 inch post.

Wood Posts• Small supports have a cross section of

approximately 16 square inches. This type of post should be buried about 30 to 36 inches deep depending upon the type of soil and backfill; check State specifications or with LTAP for embedment depth and backfill material. The post may need to be buried even deeper to reduce vandalism and reduce dislodging by heavy winds. One or two posts may be used to make up the sign support, but adding posts too close together can affect crashworthiness.

Wood Posts

4 x 6” posts requires 2 - 1.5” holes

U-Channel Steel Post• The U-channel, hot rolled steel post is

another common small sign support. It is considered breakaway since it will bend, break or pull out of the ground when it is hit.

• Post Support. The post should be driven into the ground and not encased in concrete. A broken or damaged post is easier to remove if it is not driven or set into the ground more than 3.5 feet.

U-Channel Steel Post

U-Channel Steel Post• Breakaway Devices. A U-channel post of re-

rolled rail steel weighing 3 pounds-per-foot or less meets breakaway requirements by itself. If a heavier post is used, splices can be purchased commercially to install at ground level; alternatively a stub post of the same material can be set in a concrete base with a 4-inch length available to bolt to the sign post as a base connection. These devices improve safety when the post is hit, will make repair easier, and will make it possible to use a U-channel post when it has to be placed in a concrete area.

Breakaway

Post behind stub

U-Channel Steel Post

SIGN POST STUB HEIGHT• Post bases can be driven

into the ground. Do not place concrete around post. The post base shall be a minimum of 3.5 feet in length. When installation is completed no more than 4 inches of the base sticks out above ground level, fasten with correct hardware.

Square Steel Tube

Another sign post is the square steel tube (perforated) design, which is used in many localities. Posts of this type are also considered breakaway if they are 2 ¼inches or less in size.

Square Steel Tube

• Breakaway Devices. As with the U-channel post, sleeve assemblies can be used for the base or slip couplings can be used near the base. These devices will increase the safety of a sign if it is hit and make it easier to repair. After the sign has been hit, the broken stub of the post can be removed from the base sleeve and a new sign post put back in place.

Breakaway Devices

J-bolts installed in direction of traffic

I-Beam Steel Post

• This post type is used when it is necessary to support large sign panels, which is common for roadside post-mounted guide signs.

• All large steel posts use a breakaway feature, unless protected by barrier or placed out of the clear zone. This is usually accomplished by using a slip base that connects the post to the foundation. When struck, the post slips off the foundation at the bottom, and rotates around the hinge plate below the sign panel. This allows the vehicle to safely pass under the sign after impact.

I-Beam Steel Post

Q & A TimeI can sizzle like bacon, I am made with an egg, I have plenty of backbone, but lack a good leg, I peel layers like onions, but still remain whole,I can be long, like a flagpole, yet fit in a hole,

What am I?

A snake

Sign supports in the clear zone ????? be breakaway, yielding, or

shielded

a) Shouldb) Mayc) Shall (pg 43, section 2A.19, paragraph 02)

Hmmmmm. I know you think you understand what you thought I said, but I’m not sure that what you heard is what I actually meant!

ObjectivesAt the start of today we said you’d

• Know who publishes the MUTCD and what it’s legal status is

• Know how to purchase or access the MUTCD

• Find and better understand many of the changes in the 2009 MUTCD– Over 1,500 changes– We’re covering about 100

Let us know how we did – 1st section on evaluation

Last candy chance

Knock KnockWho’s there?ArmageddonArmageddon who?Armageddon outta here once I fill out

my evaluation

Congratulations, you finished the MUTCD marathon!!