Importance of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD)

Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) As a result of research and practical experience the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) has gone through much iteration over the years to become the official document that addresses contemporary safety and operational issues. The manual provides information so that messages, location, size, shapes and colors for traffic control devices (TCD) are consistent throughout all states. The Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices provides minimum standards and guidance that ensures uniformity of traffic control devices. Uniformity across all TCDs helps reduce accidents, traffic congestion and improves the efficiency of road transportation. Importance of MUTCD The MUTCD contains the national standards that [ Read more...]

How To Comply With The New MUTCD Retroflectivity Standards?

Retroreflectivity Standards: Is there a cost effective way to comply with the new MUTCD retroreflectivity standards? There is a lot of confusion throughout the county about the new rules promulgated by the FHWA through implementation of the 2009 amendment to the MUTCD.  In general, the following target compliance dates apply: (1) January 22, 2012, for implementation and continued use of an assessment or management method that is designed to maintain traffic sign retroreflectivity at or above the established minimum levels. (2) A target compliance date of January 22, 2015, for replacement of regulatory, warning, and post-mounted guide (except street name) signs that are identified using the assessment or management method [ Read more...]

HR 3536 Safe Roads for America Act – Who Wouldn’t Vote For That?

HR 3536 Safe Roads for America Act So, what does this have to do with the new FHWA retroreflectivity (there is that word again) requirements we are all struggling to understand? First, let’s review what this piece of proposed legislation is, who is behind it and why it is there in the first place.  On December 1, Hank Johnson, a House Democrat, introduced HR 3536.  Following are some comments from the press release.  Pardon me if they read just like the principles driving the FHWA: The bill aims to improve the brightness (retro-reflectivity)  and size of traffic signs so drivers can see them more clearly at night; The bill ensures [ Read more...]