TRAFFIC

SIGN

HANDBOOK

UNH Technology Transfer Center33 Academic Way

Durham NH 03824800-423-0060 (in NH) or 603-862-2826

Fax: 603-862-0620t2.center@unh.eduwww.t2.unh.edu

April 2010

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction

Handbook Purpose 9Handbook Organization 9MUTCD 2009 Edition Statement Headings 10Purpose of Traffi c Control Devices 11Principles of Traffi c Control Devices 12Design of Traffi c Control Devices 12Maintenance of Traffi c Control Device 13Uniformity of Traffi c Control Devices 14Placement and Operation of Traffi c Control Devices 14Color Code 14

General Provisions

Standardization of Application 17Excessive Use of Signs 18Classifi cation of Signs 18Application of Regulatory Signs 18Function of Warning Signs 19Application of Warning Signs 19Scope of Conventional Road Guide Sign Standards & Application 20Guide Signs on Low-Volume Roads 20Use of Supplemental Warning Plaques 21Design of Signs 22Design of Regulatory Signs 24Design of Warning Signs 25Retrorefl ectivity and Illumination 26Maintaining Minimum Retrorefl ectivity 28Shapes 30Sign Colors 30Dimensions 31Size of Regulatory Signs 33Size of Warning Signs 34

Horizontal Alignment Signs (W1-1 through W1-8) on Low-Volume Roads 67One Direction Large Arrow Sign 67Chevron Alignment Sign (W1-8) 68Combination Horizontal Alignment/Advisory Speed Signs (W1-1a, W1-2a) 69Combination Horizontal Alignment/Intersection Sign (W1-10 series) 70Advisory Speed Plaque (W13-1P) 71Advisory Speed Plaque (W13-1P) on Low-Volume Roads 71Distance Plaques (W16-2 Series, W16-3 Series, W16-4P, W7-3aP) 72

Chapter 3: Bridges and Culverts

Introduction 73Weight Limit Signs (R12-1 through R12-5) 74NARROW BRIDGE Sign (W5-2) 75NARROW BRIDGE Sign (W5-2) on Low Volume Roads 75ONE LANE BRIDGE Sign (W5-3) 75ONE LANE BRIDGE Sign (W5-3) on Low-Volume Roads 76Low Clearance Signs (W12-2 and W12-2a) 76Object Markers for Obstructions Adjacent to the Roadway 77

Chapter 4: Railroad Grade Crossings

Introduction 79Grade Crossing Advance Warning Signs (W10 Series) 79Grade Crossing Advance Warning Signs (W10 Series) on Low-Volume Roads 81Grade Crossing (Crossbuck) Sign (R15-1) and Number of Tracks Plaque (R15-2P) at Active and Passive Grade Crossings 82Grade Crossing (Crossbuck) Sign (R15-1) and Number of Tracks Plaque (R15-2P) on Low Volume Roads 83Other Traffi c Control Devices on Low-Volume Roads 84STOP and YIELD Signs (R1-1, R1-2) on Low-Volume Roads 84

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Size of Guide Signs 35Symbols 36Word Messages 38Sign Borders 40Standardization of Location 41Mounting Height 43Lateral Off set 46Position of Signs 47Orientation 48Posts and Mountings 48Maintenance 49

Chapter 1: Intersections

Introduction 51STOP Sign (R1-1) and ALL WAY PLAQUE (R1-3P) 52STOP Sign Applications 53STOP Sign or YIELD Sign Placement 54STOP and YIELD Signs (R1-1 and R1-2) on Low-Volume Roads 57YIELD Sign Applications 57Stop Ahead and Yield Ahead Signs (W3-1, W3-2) 58Traffi c Movement and Prohibition Signs (R3, R4, R5, R6, R9, R10, R11, R12, R13, and R14 Series) 59DO NOT ENTER Sign (R5-1) 60WRONG WAY Sign (R5-1a) 61ONE WAY Signs (R6-1, R6-2) 61Two-Direction Large Arrow Sign (W1-7) 62Intersection Warning Signs (W2-1 through W2-6) 63Street Name Sign (D3-1 or D3-1a) 63

Chapter 2: Turns and Curves

Introduction 65DO NOT PASS Sign (R4-1) 65Horizontal Alignment Signs (W1-1 through W1-5, W1-11, W1-15) 66

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Chapter 6: School and Children

Introduction 107Need for Standards 107School Routes and Established School Crossings 109School Crossing Control Criteria 109Scope 110Size of School Signs 110Illumination and Refl ectorization 111Position of Signs 111Height of Signs 112Sign Color for School Warning Signs 112SCHOOL BUS TURN AHEAD Sign (S3-2) 112School Speed Limit Assembly (S4-1P, S4-2P, S4-3P, S4-4P, S4-6P, S5-1) and END SCHOOL SPEED LIMIT Sign (S5-3) 112Reduced School Speed Limit Ahead Sign (S4-5, S4-5a) 115Parking and Stopping Signs (R7 and R8 Series) 116Playground Sign (W15-1) 116

Chapter 7: Crossing Hazards

Introduction 119State of New Hampshire Supplemental Crosswalk Identifi cation Devices 119In-Street and Overhead Pedestrian Crossing Signs (R1-6, R1-6a, R1-9, and R1-9a) 119Traffi c Signal Pedestrian and Bicycle Actuation Signs (R10-1 through R10-4, and R10-24 through R10-26) 121Non-Vehicular Warning Signs (W11-2, W11-3, W11-4, W11-6, W11-7, W11-9, and W11-16 through W11-22) 123Vehicular Traffi c Warning and Non-Vehicular Traffi c Warning Signs (W11 Series and W8-6) on Low Volume Roads 125Motorized Traffi c Signs (W8-6, W11-10) 126

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Chapter 5: Roadway Restrictions

Introduction 85Speed Limit Sign (R2-1) 85Speed Limit Signs (R2 Series) on Low-Volume Roads 89Truck Speed Limit Plaque (R2-2P) 89DO NOT PASS Sign (R4-1) 89PASS WITH CARE Sign (R4-2) 90NO PASSING ZONE Sign (W14-3) 90Keep Right and Keep Left Signs (R4-7, R4-8) 90Selective Exclusion Signs 92Truck Route Sign (R14-1) 94Traffi c Movement and Prohibition Signs (R3, R4, R5, R6, R9, R10, R11, R12, R13, and R14 Series) on Low-Volume Roads 94Parking, Standing, & Stopping Signs (R7 and R8 Series) 95Design of Parking, Standing, and Stopping Signs 96Hill Signs (W7-1, W7-1a) 96Hill Sign (W7-1) on Low-Volume Roads 97BUMP and DIP Signs (W8-1, W8-2) 98PAVEMENT ENDS Sign (W8-3) 98PAVEMENT ENDS Sign (W8-3) on Low-Volume Roads 99DEAD END/NO OUTLET Signs (W14-1, W14-1a, W14-2, W14-2a) 99Motorized Traffi c Signs (W8-6, W11-10) 100Surface Condition Signs (W8-5, W8-7, W8-8, W8-11, W8-13 and W8-14) 100Double Arrow Sign (W12-1) 101Object Marker Design and Placement Height 101Object Markers for Obstructions Within the Roadway 103Object Markers for Ends of Roadway 104NO TRAFFIC SIGNS Sign (W18-1) on Low-Volume Roads 105

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Figure 4C-9. Intersection Near a Grade Crossing (One Approach Lane) 157Figure 5B-1. Regulatory Signs on Low Volume Roads 158Figure 5B-2. Parking Signs and Plaques on Low Volume Roads 159Figure 5C-2. Other Warning Signs and Plaques on Low Volume Roads 160Figure 5F-1. Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Signs and Plaques on Low Volume Roads 161Figure 6C-1. Component Parts of a Temporary Traffi c Control Zone 162Figure 6C-2. Examples of Warning Signs for a Turn 163Figure 6E-3. Use of Hand Signaling Devices by Flaggers 164Figure 6F-1. Height and Location of Signs--Typical Installations 165Figure 6F-2. Methods of Mounting Signs Other Th an on Posts 166Figure 6F-3. Regulatory Signs and Plaques in Temporary Traffi c Control Zones 167Figure 6F-4. Warning Signs and Plaques in Temporary Traffi c Control Zones 169Figure 6H-10. Lane Closure on a Two-Lane Road Using Flaggers (Typical Application) 172Figure 6H-11. Lane Closure on a Two-Lane Road with Low Traffi c Volumes (Typical Application) 173Figure 6H-15. Work in Center of a Road with Low Traffi c Volumes (Typical Application) 174Figure 7B-6. In Street Signs in School Areas 175Figure 8B-1. Regulatory Signs and Plaques for Grade Crossings 176Figure 9C-8. Examples of Obstruction Pavement Markings 177

Appendix C. Word and Phrase Defi nitions 179

Notes 182

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Appendix A. Sign Illumination, Retrorefl ectivity, Shapes, Colors, and Sizes

Table I-2. Target Compliance Dates Established by FHWA 127Table 2A-1. Illumination of Sign Elements 130Table 2A-2. Retrorefl ection of Sign Elements 130Table 2A-3. Minimum Maintained Retrorefl ectivity Levels 131Table 2A-4. Use of Sign Shapes 132Table 2A-5. Common Uses of Sign Colors 133Table 2B-1. Regulatory Sign and Plaque Sizes 134Table 2C-2. Warning Sign and Plaque Sizes 138Table 2C-3. Minimum Size of Supplemental Warning Plaques 140Table 2C-4. Guidelines for Advance Placement of Warning Signs 141Table 2D-2. Recommended Minimum Letter Heights on Street Name Signs 141Table 5A-1. Sign and Plaque Sizes on Low Volume Roads 142Table 6C-1. Recommended Advance Warning Sign Minimum Spacing 143Table 6C-2. Stopping Sight Distance as a Function of Speed 144Table 7B-1. School Area Sign and Plaque Sizes 145

Appendix B. Figures for Height and Location of Various Signs

Figure 2A-2. Examples of Heights and Lateral Locations of Sign Installations 147Figure 2A-3. Examples of Locations for Some Typical Signs at Intersections 148Figure 2A-4. Relative Locations of Regulatory, Warning, and Guide Signs on an Intersection Approach 149Figure 2B-14. Locations of ONE WAY Signs 151Figure 2C-2. Example of Warning Signs for a Turn 153Figure 3B-1. Example of Two-Lane, Two-Way Marking Applications 154Figure 3B-21. Examples of Parking Space Markings 155Figure 3C-3. Example of Markings for a One-Lane Roundabout 156

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INTRODUCTION

Handbook Purpose

Traffi c control devices are all signs, signals, markings, and other devices used to regulate, warn, or guide traffi c. In New Hampshire, the Department of Transportation (NHDOT) and municipal offi cials have the authority to install traffi c control devices and the responsibility to maintain them. Th e Manual on Uniform Traffi c Control Devices (MUTCD) defi nes the standards used by road managers to install and maintain traffi c control devices1. Th is Traffi c Sign Handbook refl ects traffi c control devices typically used in New Hampshire, and includes applicable NHDOT standards. Th e Handbook’s standards and rules are applicable to traffi c signs appropriate for use on rural and residential roadways. Th is Handbook is not a supplement or substitute for the MUTCD 2009 Edition, but rather a reference. If additional information is needed consult the MUTCD 2009 Edition, a knowledgeable engineer, the NHDOT, or the University of New Hampshire Technology Transfer Center. Some editorial changes have been necessary to help readers use this Handbook.

Handbook Organization

Th is Introduction and the General Provisions chapters contain MUTCD 2009 Edition requirements and recommendations that apply to all signs. Chapters 1 through 7 are organized by road characteristics, such as “Intersections,” “Turns and Curves,” “Bridges and Culverts,” “Railroad Grade Crossings,” “Roadway Restrictions,” “School and Children,” and “Crossing Hazards.” Th is allows users to see all the signs that might apply to a particular situation.

1 Th e most current version of the MUTCD is the 2009 Edition. Th e New Hampshire Department of Transportation has adopted the MUTCD 2009 Edition under the authority of RSA 236:1, RSA 47:17, and RSA 41:11.

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the text appears in unbold type. Th e verbs “shall,” “should,” and “may” are not used in Support statements.

Th e statements provide the information transportation professionals need to make decisions about the use of traffi c control devices. Headings classify the meaning of the text that follows. Th e headings and text are direct quotes from the MUTCD 2009 Edition, except for references to the Handbook where appropriate. Figures, tables, and illustrations supplement the text. Users need to refer to the appropriate text for the meaning of the fi gure, table, or illustration.

Purpose of Traffi c Control Devices.

Th e purpose of traffi c control devices, as well as the principles for their use, is to promote highway safety and effi ciency by providing for the orderly movement of all road users on streets, highways, bikeways, and private roads open to public travel throughout the Nation. Traffi c control devices notify road users of regulations and provide warning and guidance needed for the uniform and effi cient operation of all elements of the traffi c stream in a manner intended to minimize the occurrences of crashes.

Standard: Traffi c control devices or their supports shall not bear any advertising message or any other message that is not related to traffi c control.

Support: Tourist-oriented directional signs and Specifi c Service signs are not considered advertising; rather, they are classifi ed as motorist service signs.

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Appendix A has tables describing sign shapes, colors, sizes, and applications for all signs in this Handbook. Appendix B has fi gures showing the correct placement for some signs. A complete table of contents is provided to help readers fi nd the standards governing a particular sign.

MUTCD 2009 Edition Statement Headings

Th e MUTCD 2009 Edition contains headings to clarify the relative importance of specifi c statements. In the MUTCD 2009 Edition and this Handbook, the headings are defi ned as follows:

Standard• - a statement of required, mandatory, or specifi cally prohibitive practice regarding a traffi c control device. All Standard statements are labeled, and the text appears in bold type. Th e verb “shall” is typically used. Th e verbs “should” and “may” are not used in Standard statements. Standard statements are sometimes modifi ed by Options. Standard statements shall not be modifi ed or compromised based on engineering judgment or engineering study.

Guidance• - a statement of recommended, but not mandatory, practice in typical situations, with deviations allowed if engineering judgment or engineering study indicates the deviation to be appropriate. All Guidance statements are labeled, and the text appears in unbold type. Th e verb “should” is typically used. Th e verbs “shall” and “may” are not used in Guidance statements. Guidance statements are sometimes modifi ed by Options

Option• - a statement of practice that is a permissive condition and carries no requirement or recommendation. Option statements sometime contain allowable modifi cations to a Standard or Guidance statement. All Option statements are labeled, and the text appears in unbold type. Th e verb “may” is typically used. Th e verbs “shall” and “should” are not used in Option statements

Support• - an informational statement that does not convey any degree of mandate, recommendation, authorization, prohibition, or enforceable condition. Support statements are labeled, and

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combined to draw attention to the devices; that size, shape, color, and simplicity of message combine to produce a clear meaning; that legibility and size combine with placement to permit adequate time for response; and that uniformity, size, legibility, and reasonableness of the message combine to command respect. Aspects of a device’s standard design should be modifi ed only if there is a demonstrated need.

Support: An example of modifying a device’s design would be to modify the Combination Horizontal Alignment/Intersection (W1-10) sign to show intersecting side roads on both sides rather than on just one side of the major road within the curve.

Option: With the exception of symbols and colors, minor modifi cations in the specifi c design elements of a device may be made provided the essential appearance characteristics are preserved.

Maintenance of Traffi c Control Devices

Guidance: Functional maintenance of traffi c control devices should be used to determine if certain devices need to be changed to meet current traffi c conditions. Physical maintenance of traffi c control devices should be performed to retain the legibility and visibility of the device, and to retain the proper functioning of the device.

Support: Clean, legible, properly mounted devices in good working condition command the respect of road users.

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Principles of Traffi c Control Devices

Th is Handbook contains the basic principles that govern the design and use of traffi c control devices for all streets and highways open to public travel regardless of type or class or the public agency having jurisdiction. Its text specifi es restrictions on the use of devices intended for limited application or for a specifi c system. It is important that these principles be given primary consideration in the selection and application of each device.

Guidance: To be eff ective, a traffi c control device should meet fi ve basic requirements:

A. Fulfi ll a need;• B. command attention;• C. convey a clear, simple meaning;• D. command respect from road users; and• E. give adequate time for proper response.•

Design, placement, operation, maintenance, and uniformity are aspects that should be carefully considered in order to maximize the ability of a traffi c control device to meet the fi ve requirements listed in the previous paragraph. Vehicle speed should be carefully considered as an element that governs the design, operation, placement, and location of various traffi c control devices.

Support: Th e defi nition of the word “speed” varies depending on its use. Th e defi nitions of specifi c speed terms are contained in Appendix C.

Design of Traffi c Control Devices

Guidance: Devices should be designed so that features such as size, shape, color, composition, lighting or retrorefl ection, and contrast are

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appropriate for use in conveying traffi c control information. Th e two colors for which general meanings have not yet been assigned are being reserved for future applications that will be determined only by FHWA after consultation with the States, the engineering community, and the general public.

Standard: Th e general meaning of the 13 colors shall be as follows:

Black1. —regulationBlue2. —road user services guidance, tourist information, and evacuation routeBrown3. —recreational and cultural interest area guidanceCoral4. —unassignedFluorescent Pink5. —incident managementFluorescent Yellow-Green6. —pedestrian warning, bicycle warning, playground warning, school bus and school warningGreen7. —indicated movements permitted, direction guidanceLight Blue8. —unassignedOrange9. —temporary traffi c controlPurple10. —lanes restricted to use only by vehicles with registered electronic toll collection (ETC) accountsRed11. —stop or prohibitionWhite12. —regulationYellow13. —warning

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Uniformity of Traffi c Control Devices

Support: Uniformity of devices simplifi es the task of the road user because it aids in recognition and understanding, thereby reducing perception/reaction time. Uniformity assists road users, law enforcement offi cers, and traffi c courts by giving everyone the same interpretation. Uniformity assists public highway offi cials through effi ciency in manufacture, installation, maintenance, and administration. Uniformity means treating similar situations in a similar way. Th e use of uniform traffi c control devices does not, in itself, constitute uniformity. A standard device used where it is not appropriate is as objectionable as a non-standard device; in fact, this might be worse, because such misuse might result in disrespect at those locations where the device is needed and appropriate.

Placement and Operation of Traffi c Control Devices

Guidance: Placement of a traffi c control device should be within the road user’s view so that adequate visibility is provided. To aid in conveying the proper meaning, the traffi c control device should be appropriately positioned with respect to the location, object, or situation to which it applies. Th e location and legibility of the traffi c control device should be such that a road user has adequate time to make the proper response in both day and night conditions. Traffi c control devices should be placed and operated in a uniform and consistent manner. Unnecessary traffi c control devices should be removed. Th e fact that a device is in good physical condition should not be a basis for deferring needed removal or change.

Color Code

Support: Th e following color code establishes general meanings for 11 colors of a total of 13 colors that have been identifi ed as being

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GENERAL PROVISIONS

The MUTCD 2009 Edition has a separate General Provisions section. It also has similar material throughout for specifi c groups of signs. Many of these standards are combined in the Handbook General Provisions.

Standardization of Application

Support: It is recognized that urban traffi c conditions diff er from those in rural environments, and in many instances signs are applied and located diff erently. Where pertinent and practical, the MUTCD and this Handbook sets forth separate recommendations for urban and rural conditions.

Guidance: Signs should be used only where justifi ed by engineering judgment or studies, as provided in MUTCD Section 1A.09. Results from traffi c engineering studies of physical and traffi c factors should indicate the locations where signs are deemed necessary or desirable. Roadway geometric design and sign application should be coordinated so that signing can be eff ectively placed to give the road user any necessary regulatory, warning, guidance, and other information.

Standard: Each standard sign shall be displayed only for the specifi c purpose as prescribed in the MUTCD and this Handbook. Determination of the particular signs to be applied to a specifi c condition shall be made in accordance with the provisions set forth in MUTCD Part 2. Before any new highway, private road open to public travel (see defi nition in MUTCD Section 1A.13), detour, or temporary route is opened to public travel, all necessary signs shall be in place.

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adequate visibility and legibility in order to obtain compliance. Regulatory signs shall be retrorefl ective or illuminated (see MUTCD Section 2A.07) to show the same shape and similar color by both day and night, unless specifi cally stated otherwise in the text discussion in the MUTCD and this Handbook for a particular sign or group of signs. Th e requirements for sign illumination shall not be considered to be satisfi ed by street or highway lighting.

Support: MUTCD Section 1A.09 contains information regarding the assistance that is available to jurisdictions that do not have engineers on their staff s who are trained and/or experienced in traffi c control devices.

Function of Warning Signs

Support: Warning signs call attention to unexpected conditions on or adjacent to a highway, street, or private roads open to public travel and to situations that might not be readily apparent to road users. Warning signs alert road users to conditions that might call for a reduction of speed or an action in the interest of safety and effi cient traffi c operations.

Application of Warning Signs

Standard: Th e use of warning signs shall be based on an engineering study or on engineering judgment.

Guidance: Th e use of warning signs should be kept to a minimum as the unnecessary use of warning signs tends to breed disrespect for all signs. In situations where the condition or activity is seasonal or temporary, the warning sign should be removed or covered when the condition or activity does not exist.

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Signs required by road conditions or restrictions shall be removed when those conditions cease to exist or the restrictions are withdrawn.

Excessive Use of Signs

Guidance: Regulatory and warning signs should be used conservatively because these signs, if used to excess, tend to lose their eff ectiveness. If used, route signs and directional guide signs should be used frequently because their use promotes effi cient operations by keeping road users informed of their location.

Classifi cation of Signs

Standard: Signs shall be defi ned by their function as follows:

A. Regulatory signs give notice of traffi c laws or regulations.• B. Warning signs give notice of a situation that might not be • readily apparent.C. Guide signs show route designations, destinations, directions, • distances, services, points of interest, and other geographical, recreational, or cultural information.

Support: Object markers are defi ned in MUTCD Section 2C.63.

Application of Regulatory Signs

Standard: Regulatory signs shall be used to inform road users of selected traffi c laws or regulations and indicate the applicability of the legal requirements. Regulatory signs shall be installed at or near where the regulations apply. Th e signs shall clearly indicate the requirements imposed by the regulations and shall be designed and installed to provide

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the MUTCD and this Handbook. Provisions for guide signs that are specifi c to low-volume roads are contained in this Chapter.

Guidance: Th e familiarity of the road users with the road should be consid-ered in determining the need for guide signs on low-volume roads.

Support: Low-volume roads generally do not require guide signs to the extent that they are needed on higher classes of roads. Because guide signs are typically only benefi cial as a navigational aid for road users who are unfamiliar with a low-volume road, guide signs might not be needed on low-volume roads that serve only local traffi c.

Guidance: If used, destination names should be as specifi c and descriptive as possible. Destinations such as campgrounds, ranger stations, rec-reational areas, and the like should be clearly indicated so that they are not interpreted to be communities or locations with road user ser-vices.

Option: Guide signs may be used at intersections to provide information for road users returning to a higher class of roads.

Use of Supplemental Warning Plaques

Option: A supplemental warning plaque (see MUTCD Figure 2C-12) may be displayed with a warning or regulatory sign when engineering judgment indicates that road users require additional warning information beyond that contained in the main message of the warning or regulatory sign.

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Option: Consistent with the provisions of MUTCD Chapter 2L, changeable message signs may be used to display a warning message. Consistent with the provisions of MUTCD chapter 4L, a Warning Beacon may be used in combination with a standard warning sign.

Support: Th e categories of warning signs are shown in MUTCD Table 2C-1. Warning signs provided in the MUTCD and this Handbook cover most of the conditions that are likely to be encountered. Additional warning signs for low-volume roads (as defi ned in MUTCD Section 5A.01), temporary traffi c control zones, school areas, grade crossings, and bicycle facilities are discussed in MUTCD Parts 5 through 10, respectively. MUTCD Section 1A.09 contains information regarding the assistance that is available to jurisdictions that do not have engineers on their staff s who are trained and/or experienced in traffi c control devices.

Scope of Conventional Road Guide Sign Standards and Application

Standard: Th e provisions of this Chapter shall apply to any road or street other than low-volume roads (as defi ned in MUTCD Section 5A.01), expressways, and freeways.

Guide Signs on Low Volume Roads

Support: Th e purpose of a guide sign is to inform road users regarding positions, directions, destinations, and routes. Th e provisions for guide signs, in general, are contained in MUTCD chapters 2D through 2N and in other MUTCD Sections of

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All symbols shall be unmistakably similar to, or mirror images of, the adopted symbol signs, all of which are shown in the “Standard Highway Signs and Markings” book (see MUTCD Section 1A.11). Symbolsand colors shall not be modifi ed unless otherwise provided in the MUTCD and this Handbook. All symbols and colors for signs not shown in the “Standard Highway Signs and Markings” book shall follow the procedures forexperimentation and change described in MUTCD Section 1A.10.

Option: Although the standard design of symbol signs cannot be modifi ed, the orientation of the symbol may be changed to better refl ect the direction of travel, if appropriate.

Standard: Where a standard word message is applicable, the wording shall be as provided in the MUTCD and this Handbook. In situations where word messages are required other than those provided in the MUTCD and this Handbook, the signs shall be of the same shape and color as standard signs of the same functional type.

Option: State and local highway agencies may develop special word message signs in situations where roadway conditions make it necessary to provide road users with additional regulatory, warning, or guidance information, such as when road users need to be notifi ed of special regulations or warned about a situation that might not be readily apparent. Unlike colors that have not been assigned or symbols that have not been approved for signs, new word message signs may be used without the need for experimentation.

Standard: Except as provided in Paragraph 16 and except for the Carpool Information (D12-2) sign (see MUTCD Section 2I.11), Internet addresses and e-mail addresses, including domain names and

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Design of Signs

Support: Th e MUTCD and this Handbook shows many typical standard signs and object markers approved for use on streets, highways, bikeways, and pedestrian crossings. In the specifi cations for individual signs and object markers, the general appearance of the legend, color, and size are shown in the accompanying tables and illustrations, and are not always detailed in the text. Detailed drawings of standard signs, object markers, alphabets, symbols, and arrows (see MUTCD Figure 2D-2) are shown in the “Standard Highway Signs and Markings” book. MUTCD Section 1A.11 contains information regarding how to obtain this publication. Th e basic requirements of a 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, symbols, or arrows, • and a short legend for quick comprehension by a road user approaching a sign).

Standardized colors and shapes are specifi ed so that the several classes of traffi c signs can be promptly recognized. Simplicity and uniformity in design, position, and application are important.

Standard: Th e term legend shall include all word messages and symbol and arrow designs that are intended to convey specifi c meanings. Uniformity in design shall include shape, color, dimensions, legends, borders, and illumination or retrorefl ectivity. Standardization of these designs does not preclude further improvement by minor changes in the proportion or orientation of symbols, width of borders, or layout of word messages, but all shapes and colors shall be as indicated.

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sizes, shapes, colors, and legends contained in the “Standard Highway Signs and Markings” book (see MUTCD Section 1A.11).

Option: Regulatory word message signs other than those classifi ed and specifi ed in the MUTCD and this Handbook and the “Standard Highways Signs and Markings” book (see MUTCD Section 1A.11) may be developed to aid the enforcement of other laws or regulations. Except for symbols on regulatory signs, minor modifi cations may be made to the design provided that the essential appearance characteristics are met.

Support: Th e use of educational plaques to supplement symbol signs is described in MUTCD Section 2A.12.

Guidance: Changeable message signs displaying a regulatory message incorporating a prohibitory message that includes a red circle and slash on a static sign should display a red symbol that approximates the same red circle and slash as closely as possible.

Design of Warning Signs

Standard: Except as provided in Paragraph 2 or unless specifi cally designated otherwise, all warning signs shall be diamond-shaped (square with one diagonal vertical) with a black legend and border on a yellow background. Warning signs shall be designed in accordance with the sizes, shapes, colors, and legends contained in the “Standard Highway Signs and Markings” book (see MUTCD Section 1A.11).

Option: A warning sign that is larger than the size shown in the Oversized column in MUTCD Table 2C-2 for that particular sign may be diamond-shaped or may be rectangular or square in shape.

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uniform resource locators (URL), shall not be displayed on any sign, supplemental plaque, sign panel (including logo sign panels on Specifi c Service signs), or changeable message sign.

Guidance: Unless otherwise provided in the MUTCD and this Handbook for a specifi c sign, and except as provided in Paragraph 16, telephone numbers of more than four characters should not be displayed on any sign, supplemental plaque, sign panel (including logo sign panels on specifi c service signs), or changeable message sign.

Option: Internet addresses, e-mail addresses, or telephone numbers with more than four characters may be displayed on signs, supplemental plaques, sign panels, and changeable message signs that are intended for viewing only by pedestrians, bicyclists, occupants of parked vehicles, or drivers of vehicles on low-speed roadways where engineering judgment indicates that an area is available for drivers to stop out of the traffi c fl ow to read the message.

Standard: Pictographs (see defi nition in MUTCD Section 1A.13) shall not be displayed on signs except as specifi cally provided in the MUTCD and this Handbook. Pictographs shall be simple, dignifi ed, and devoid of any advertising. When used to represent a political jurisdiction (such as a State, county, or municipal corporation) the pictograph shall be the offi cial designation adopted by the jurisdiction. When used to represent a college or university, the pictograph shall be the offi cial seal adopted by the institution. Pictorial representations of university or college programs shall not be permitted to be displayed on a sign.

Design of Regulatory Signs

Standard: Regulatory signs shall be rectangular unless specifi cally designated otherwise. Regulatory signs shall be designed in accordance with the

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to be satisfi ed by street or highway lighting.

Option: Sign elements may be illuminated by the means shown in MUTCD Table 2A-1. 05 Retrorefl ection of sign elements may be accomplished by the means shown in MUTCD Table 2A-2. Light Emitting Diode (LED) units may be used individually within the legend or symbol of a sign and in the border of a sign, except for changeable message signs, to improve the conspicuity, increase the legibility of sign legends and borders, or provide a changeable message.

Standard: Except as provided in Paragraphs 11 and 12, neither individual LEDs nor groups of LEDs shall be placed within the background area of a sign. If used, the LEDs shall have a maximum diameter of 1/4 inch and shall be the following colors based on the type of sign:

A. White or red, if used with STOP or YIELD signs.• B. White, if used with regulatory signs other than STOP or • YIELD signs.C. White or yellow, if used with warning signs.• D. White, if used with guide signs.• E. White, yellow, or orange, if used with temporary traffi c control • signs.F. White or yellow, if used with school area signs.•

If fl ashed, all LED units shall fl ash simultaneously at a rate of more than 50 and less than 60 times per minute. Th e uniformity of the sign design shall be maintained without any decrease in visibility, legibility, or driver comprehension during either daytime or nighttime conditions.

Option: For STOP and YIELD signs, LEDs may be placed within the border or within one border width within the background of the

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Except for symbols on warning signs, minor modifi cations may be made to the design provided that the essential appearance characteristics are met. Modifi cations may be made to the symbols shown on combined horizontal alignment/intersection signs (see MUTCD Section 2C.11) and intersection warning signs (see MUTCD Section 2C.46) in order to approximate the geometric confi guration of the intersecting roadway(s). Word message warning signs other than those provided in the MUTCD and this Handbook may be developed and installed by State and local highway agencies. 05 Warning signs regarding conditions associated with pedestrians, bicyclists, and playgrounds may have a black legend and border on a yellow or fl uorescent yellow-green background.

Standard: Warning signs regarding conditions associated with school buses and schools and their related supplemental plaques shall have a black legend and border on a fl uorescent yellow-green background (see MUTCD Section 7B.07).

Retrorefl ectivity and Illumination

Support: Th ere are many materials currently available for retrorefl ection and various methods currently available for the illumination of signs and object markers. New materials and methods continue to emerge. New materials and methods can be used as long as the signs and object markers meet the standard requirements for color, both by day and by night.

Standard: Regulatory, warning, and guide signs and object markers shall be retrorefl ective (see MUTCD Section 2A.08) or illuminated to show the same shape and similar color by both day and night, unless otherwise provided in the text discussion in the MUTCD and this Handbook for a particular sign or group of signs. Th e requirements for sign illumination shall not be considered

26

should be used to maintain sign retrorefl ectivity:

A. Visual Nighttime Inspection—Th e retrorefl ectivity of an • existing sign is assessed by a trained sign inspector conducting a visual inspection from a moving vehicle during nighttime conditions. Signs that are visually identifi ed by the inspector to have retrorefl ectivity below the minimum levels should be replaced.B. Measured Sign Retrorefl ectivity—Sign retrorefl ectivity is • measured using a retrorefl ectometer. Signs with retrorefl ectivity below the minimum levels should be replaced.C. Expected Sign Life—When signs are installed, the installation • date is labeled or recorded so that the age of a sign is known. Th e age of the sign is compared to the expected sign life. Th e expected sign life is based on the experience of sign retrorefl ectivity degradation in a geographic area compared to the minimum levels. Signs older than the expected life should be replaced.D. Blanket Replacement—All signs in an area/corridor, or • of a given type, should be replaced at specifi ed intervals. Th is eliminates the need to assess retrorefl ectivity or track the life of individual signs. Th e replacement interval is based on the expected sign life, compared to the minimum levels, for the shortest-life material used on the aff ected signs.E. Control Signs—Replacement of signs in the fi eld is based • on the performance of a sample of control signs. Th e control signs might be a small sample located in a maintenance yard or a sample of signs in the fi eld. Th e control signs are monitored to determine the end of retrorefl ective life for the associated signs. All fi eld signs represented by the control sample should be replaced before the retrorefl ectivity levels of the control sample reach the minimum levels.F. Other Methods—Other methods developed based on • engineering studies can be used.

Support: Additional information about these methods is contained in the 2007 Edition of FHWA’s “Maintaining Traffi c Sign Retrorefl ectivity”

sign. For STOP/SLOW paddles (see MUTCD Section 6E.03) used by fl aggers and the STOP paddles (see MUTCD Section 7D.05) used by adult crossing guards, individual LEDs or groups of LEDs may be used.

Support: Other methods of enhancing the conspicuity of standard signs are described in MUTCD Section 2A.15. Information regarding the use of retrorefl ective material on the sign support is contained in MUTCD Section 2A.21.

Maintaining Minimum Retrorefl ectivity

Support: Retrorefl ectivity is one of several factors associated with maintaining nighttime sign visibility (see MUTCD Section 2A.22).

Standard: Public agencies or offi cials having jurisdiction shall use an assessment or management method that is designed to maintain sign retrorefl ectivity at or above the minimum levels in MUTCD Table 2A-3.Support: Compliance with the Standard in Paragraph 2 is achieved by having a method in place and using the method to maintain the minimum levels established in MUTCD Table 2A-3. Provided that an assessment or management method is being used, an agency or offi cial having jurisdiction would be in compliance with the Standard in Paragraph 2 even if there are some individual signs that do not meet the minimum retrorefl ectivity levels at a particular point in time.

Guidance: Except for those signs specifi cally identifi ed in Paragraph 6, one or more of the following assessment or management methods

2928

Whenever white is specifi ed in the MUTCD and this Handbook or in the “Standard Highway Signs and Markings” book (see MUTCD Section 1A.11) as a color, it is understood to include silver-colored retrorefl ective coatings or elements that refl ect white light. Th e colors coral and light blue are being reserved for uses that will be determined in the future by the Federal Highway Administration. Information regarding color coding of destinations on guide signs, including community wayfi nding signs, is contained in MUTCD chapter 2D.

Option: Th e approved fl uorescent version of the standard red, yellow, green, or orange color may be used as an alternative to the corresponding standard color.

Dimensions

Support: Th e “Standard Highway Signs and Markings” book (see MUTCD Section 1A.11) prescribes design details for up to fi ve diff erent sizes depending on the type of traffi c facility, including bikeways. Smaller sizes are designed to be used on bikeways and some other off -road applications. Larger sizes are designed for use on freeways and expressways, and can also be used to enhance road user safety and convenience on other facilities, especially on multi-lane divided highways and on undivided highways having fi ve or more lanes of traffi c and/or high speeds. Th e intermediate sizes are designed to be used on other highway types.

Standard: Th e sign dimensions prescribed in the sign size tables in the various Parts and Chapters in the MUTCD and this Handbook and in the “Standard Highway Signs and Markings” book (see MUTCD Section 1A.11) shall be used unless engineering judgment determines

(see MUTCD Section 1A.11).

Option: Highway agencies may exclude the following signs from the retrorefl ectivity maintenance guidelines described in this MUTCD Section:

A. Parking, Standing, and Stopping signs (R7 • and R8 series)

B. Walking/Hitchhiking/Crossing signs (R9 • series, R10-1 through R10-4b)

C. Acknowledgment signs• D. All signs with blue or brown backgrounds• E. Bikeway signs that are intended for •

exclusive use by bicyclists or pedestrians

Shapes

Standard: Particular shapes, as shown in MUTCD Table 2A-4, shall be used exclusively for specifi c signs or series of signs, unless otherwise provided in the text discussion in the MUTCD and this Handbook for a particular sign or class of signs.

Sign Colors

Standard: 01 Th e colors to be used on standard signs and their specifi c use on these signs shall be as provided in the applicable Sections of the MUTCD and this Handbook. Th e color coordinates and values shall be as described in 23 CFR, Part 655, Subpart F, Appendix.

Support: As a quick reference, common uses of sign colors are shown in MUTCD Table 2A-5. Color schemes on specifi c signs are shown in the illustrations located in each appropriate MUTCD chapter.

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standard shapes and colors shall be used and standard proportions shall be retained as much as practical.

Guidance: When supplemental plaques are installed with larger sized signs, a corresponding increase in the size of the plaque and its legend should also be made. Th e resulting plaque size should be approximately in the same relative proportion to the larger sized sign as the conventional sized plaque is to the conventional sized sign.

Size of Regulatory Signs

Standard: Except as provided in MUTCD Section 2A.11, the sizes for regulatory signs shall be as shown in MUTCD Table 2B-1.

Support: MUTCD Section 2A.11 contains information regarding the applicability of the various columns in MUTCD Table 2B-1.

Standard: Except as provided in Paragraphs 4 and 5, the minimum sizes for regulatory signs facing traffi c on multi-lane conventional roads shall be as shown in the Multi-lane column of MUTCD Table 2B-1.

Option: Where the posted speed limit is 35 mph or less on a multi-lane highway or street, other than for a STOP sign, the minimum size shown in the Single Lane column in MUTCD Table 2B-1 may be used. Where a regulatory sign, other than a STOP sign, is placed on the left-hand side of a multi-lane roadway in addition to the installation of the same regulatory sign on the right-hand side or the roadway, the size shown in the Single Lane column in MUTCD Table 2B-1 may be used for both the sign on the right-hand side and the sign on the left-hand side of the roadway.

33

that other sizes are appropriate. Except as provided in Paragraph 3, where engineering judgment determines that sizes smaller than the prescribed dimensions are appropriate for use, the sign dimensions shall not be less than the minimum dimensions specifi ed in the MUTCD and this Handbook. Th e sizes shown in the Minimum columns that are smaller than the sizes shown in the Conventional Road columns in the various sign size tables in the MUTCD and this Handbook shall only be used on low-speed roadways, alleys, and private roads open to public travel where the reduced legend size would be adequate for the regulation or warning or where physical conditions preclude the use of larger sizes.

Option: For alleys with restrictive physical conditions and vehicle usage that limits installation of the minimum size sign (or the Conventional Road size sign if no Minimum size is shown), both the sign height and the sign width may be decreased by up to 6 inches.

Guidance: Th e sizes shown in the Freeway and Expressway columns in the various sign size tables in the MUTCD and this Handbook should be used on freeways and expressways, and for other higher-speed applications based upon engineering judgment, to provide larger signs for increased visibility and recognition. Th e sizes shown in the Oversized columns in the various sign size tables in the MUTCD and this Handbook size should be used for those special applications where speed, volume, or other factors result in conditions where increased emphasis, improved recognition, or increased legibility is needed, as determined by engineering judgment or study. Increases above the prescribed sizes should be used where greater legibility or emphasis is needed. If signs larger than the prescribed sizes are used, the overall sign dimensions should be increased in 6-inch increments.Standard: Where engineering judgment determines that sizes that are diff erent than the prescribed dimensions are appropriate for use,

32

conventional road where the posted speed limit is higher than 35 mph shall be 36 x 36 inches. Th e minimum size for supplemental warning plaques that are not included in MUTCD Table 2C-2 shall be as shown in MUTCD Table 2C-3.

Option: If a diamond-shaped warning sign is placed on the left-hand side of a multi-lane roadway to supplement the installation of the same warning sign on the right-hand side of the roadway, the minimum size identifi ed in the Single Lane column in MUTCD Table 2C-2 may be used. Signs and plaques larger than those shown in MUTCD Tables 2C-2 and 2C-3 may be used (see MUTCD Section 2A.11).

Guidance: Th e minimum size for all diamond-shaped warning signs facing traffi c on exit and entrance ramps should be the size identifi ed in MUTCD Table 2C-2 for the mainline roadway classifi cation (Expressway or Freeway). If a minimum size is not provided in the Freeway Column, the Expressway size should be used. If a minimum size is not provided in the Freeway or the Expressway Column, the Oversized size should be used.

Size of Guide Signs

Standard: Except as provided in MUTCD Section 2A.11, the sizes of conventional road guide signs that have standardized designs shall be as shown in MUTCD Table 2D-1.

Support: MUTCD Section 2A.11 contains information regarding the applicability of the various columns in MUTCD Table 2D-1.

Option: Signs larger than those shown in MUTCD Table 2D-1 may be used (see MUTCD Section 2A.11).

35

Standard: A minimum size of 36 x 36 inches shall be used for STOP signs that face multi-lane approaches. Where side roads intersect a multi-lane street or highway that has a speed limit of 45 mph or higher, the minimum size of the STOP signs facing the side road approaches, even if the side road only has one approach lane, shall be 36 x 36 inches. Where side roads intersect a multi-lane street or highway that has a speed limit of 40 MPH or lower, the minimum size of the STOP signs facing the side road approaches shall be as shown in the Single Lane or Multi-lane columns of MUTCD Table 2B-1 based on the number of approach lanes on the side street approach.

Guidance: Th e minimum sizes for regulatory signs facing traffi c on exit and entrance ramps should be as shown in the column of MUTCD Table 2B-1 that corresponds to the mainline roadway classifi cation (Expressway or Freeway). If a minimum size is not provided in the Freeway column, the minimum size in the Expressway column should be used. If a minimum size is not provided in the Freeway or Expressway Column, the size in the Oversized column should be used.

Size of Warning Signs

Standard: Except as provided in MUTCD Section 2A.11, the sizes for warning signs shall be as shown in MUTCD Table 2C-2.

Support: MUTCD Section 2A.11 contains information regarding the applicability of the various columns in MUTCD Table 2C-2.

Standard: Except as provided in Paragraph 5, the minimum size for all diamond-shaped warning signs facing traffi c on a multi-lane

34

a change from word messages to symbols requires signifi cant time for public education and transition. Th erefore, the MUTCD and this Handbook sometimes includes the practice of using educational plaques to accompany new symbol signs.

Guidance: New warning or regulatory symbol signs not readily recognizable by the public should be accompanied by an educational plaque.

Option: Educational plaques may be left in place as long as they are in serviceable condition. State and/or local highway agencies may conduct research studies to determine road user comprehension, sign conspicuity, and sign legibility.

Guidance: Although most standard symbols are oriented facing left, mirror images of these symbols should be used where the reverse orientation might better convey to road users a direction of movement.

Standard: A symbol used for a given category of signs (regulatory, warning, or guide) shall not be used for a diff erent category of signs, except as specifi cally authorized in the MUTCD and this Handbook. Except as provided in Paragraph 11, a recreational and cultural interest area symbol (see MUTCD Chapter 2M) shall not be used on streets or highways outside of recreational and cultural interest areas. A recreational and cultural interest area guide sign symbol (see MUTCD chapter 2M) shall not be used on any regulatory or warning sign on any street, road, or highway.

Option: A recreational and cultural interest area guide sign symbol (see MUTCD Section 2M.04) may be used on a highway guide sign outside of a recreational and cultural interest area to supplement a comparable word message for which there is no approved symbol for

37

Support: For other guide signs, the legends are so variable that a standardized design or size is not appropriate. Th e sign size is determined primarily by the length of the message, and the size of lettering and spacing necessary for proper legibility.

Option: Reduced letter height, reduced interline spacing, and reduced edge spacing may be used on guide signs if sign size must be limited by factors such as lane width or vertical or lateral clearance.

Guidance: Reduced spacing between the letters or words on a line of legend should not be used as a means of reducing the overall size of a guide sign, except where determined necessary by engineering judgment to meet unusual lateral space constraints. In such cases, the legibility distance of the sign legend should be the primary consideration in determining whether to reduce the spacing between the letters or the words or between the words and the sign border, or to reduce the letter height. When a reduction in the prescribed size is necessary, the design used should be as similar as possible to the design for the standard size

Symbols

Standard: Symbol designs shall in all cases be unmistakably similar to those shown in the MUTCD and this Handbook and in the “Standard Highway Signs and Markings” book (see MUTCD Section 1A.11).

Support: New symbol designs are adopted by the Federal Highway Administration based on research evaluations to determine road user comprehension, sign conspicuity, and sign legibility. Sometimes

36

of an individual numeral within the fraction.Support: Th e “Standard Highway Signs and Markings” book (see MUTCD Section 1A.11) contains details regarding the layouts of fractions on signs.

Guidance: When initials are used to represent an abbreviation for separate words (such as “U S” for a United States route), the initials should be separated by a space of between 1/2 and 3/4 of the letter height of the initials. When an Interstate route is displayed in text form instead of using the route shield, a hyphen should be used for clarity, such as “I-50.”

Standard: All sign lettering shall be in upper-case letters as provided in the “Standard Highway Signs and Markings” book (see MUTCD Section 1A.11), unless otherwise provided in the MUTCD and this Handbook for a particular sign or type of message. Th e sign lettering for names of places, streets, and highways shall be composed of a combination of lower-case letters with initial upper-case letters.

Support: Letter height is expressed in terms of the height of an upper-case letter. For mixed-case legends (those composed of an initial upper-case letter followed by lower-case letters), the height of the lower-case letters is derived from the specifi ed height of the initial upper-case letter based on a prescribed ratio. Letter heights for mixed-case legends might be expressed in terms of both the upper- and lower-case letters, or in terms of the initial upper-case letter alone. When the height of a lower-case letter is specifi ed or determined from the prescribed ratio, the reference is to the nominal loop height of the letter. Th e term loop height refers to the portion of a lower-case letter that excludes any ascending or descending stems or tails of the letter, such as with the letters “d” or “q.” Th e nominal loop height is equal

39

that message in MUTCD Chapters 2B through 2I or 2N.Support: MUTCD Section 2M.07 contains provisions for the use of recreational and cultural interest area symbols to indicate prohibited activities or items in non-road applications.

Word Messages

Standard: Except as provided in MUTCD Section 2A.06, all word messages shall use standard wording and letters as shown in the MUTCD and this Handbook and in the “Standard Highway Signs and Markings” book (see MUTCD Section 1A.11).

Guidance: Word messages should be as brief as possible and the lettering should be large enough to provide the necessary legibility distance. A minimum specifi c ratio of 1 inch of letter height per 30 feet of legibility distance should be used. Abbreviations (see MUTCD Section 1A.15) should be kept to a minimum. Word messages should not contain periods, apostrophes, question marks, ampersands, or other punctuation or characters that are not letters, numerals, or hyphens unless necessary to avoid confusion.Th e solidus (slanted line or forward slash) is intended to be used for fractions only and should not be used to separate words on the same line of legend. Instead, a hyphen should be used for this purpose, such as “TRUCKS - BUSES.”

Standard: Fractions shall be displayed with the numerator and denominator diagonally arranged about the solidus (slanted line or forward slash). Th e overall height of the fraction is measured from the top of the numerator to the bottom of the denominator, each of which is vertically aligned with the upper and lower ends of the solidus. Th e overall height of the fraction shall be determined by the height of the numerals within the fraction, and shall be 1.5 times the height

38

but should not exceed the stroke-width of the major lettering of the sign. On signs exceeding 72 x 120 inches in size, the border should be 2 inches wide, or on larger signs, 3 inches wide. Except for STOP signs and as otherwise provided in MUTCD Section 2E.16, the corners of the sign should be rounded to a radius that is concentric with that of the border.

Standardization of Location

Support: Standardization of position cannot always be attained in practice. Examples of heights and lateral locations of signs for typical installations are illustrated in MUTCD Figure 2A-2, and examples of locations for some typical signs at intersections are illustrated in MUTCD Figures 2A-3 and 2A-4. Examples of advance signing on an intersection approach are illustrated in MUTCD Figure 2A-4. MUTCD chapters 2B, 2C, and 2D contain provisions regarding the application of regulatory, warning, and guide signs, respectively.

Standard: Signs requiring separate decisions by the road user shall be spaced suffi ciently far apart for the appropriate decisions to be made. One of the factors considered when determining the appropriate spacing shall be the posted or 85th-percentile speed.

Guidance: Signs should be located on the right-hand side of the roadway where they are easily recognized and understood by road users. Signs in other locations should be considered only as supplementary to signs in the normal locations, except as otherwise provided in this

Manual. Signs should be individually installed on separate posts or mountings except where:

41

to the actual height of a non-rounded lower-case letter whose form does not include ascending or descending stems or tails, such as the letter “x.” Th e rounded portions of a lower-case letter extend slightly above and below the baselines projected from the top and bottom of such a non-rounded letter so that the appearance of a uniform letter height within a word is achieved. Th e actual loop height of a rounded lower-case letter is slightly greater than the nominal loop height and this additional height is excluded from the expression of the lower-case letter height.

Standard: When a mixed-case legend is used, the height of the lower-case letters shall be 3/4 of the height of the initial upper-case letter. Th e unique letter forms for each of the Standard Alphabet series shall not be stretched, compressed, warped, or otherwise manipulated.

Support: MUTCD Section 2D.04 contains information regarding the acceptable methods of modifying the length of a word for a given letter height and series.

Sign Borders

Standard: Unless otherwise provided, each sign illustrated in the MUTCD and this Handbook shall have a border of the same color as the legend, at or just inside the edge. Th e corners of all sign borders shall be rounded, except for STOP signs.

Guidance: A dark border on a light background should be set in from the edge, while a light border on a dark background should extend to the edge of the sign. A border for 30-inch signs with a light background should be from 1/2 to 3/4 inch in width, 1/2 inch from the edge. For similar signs with a light border, a width of 1 inch should be used. For other sizes, the border width should be of similar proportions,

40

of signs. Overloading road users with too much information is not desirable.Guidance: Because regulatory and warning information is more critical to the road user than guidance information, regulatory and warning signing whose location is critical should be displayed rather than guide signing in cases where confl icts occur. Community way fi nding and acknowledgment guide signs should have a lower priority as to placement than other guide signs. Information of a less critical nature should be moved to less critical locations or omitted.

Option: Under some circumstances, such as on curves to the right, signs may be placed on median islands or on the left-hand side of the road. A supplementary sign located on the left-hand side of the roadway may be used on a multi-lane road where traffi c in a lane to the right might obstruct the view to the right.

Guidance: In urban areas where crosswalks exist, signs should not be placed within 4 feet in advance of the crosswalk (see Drawing D in MUTCD Figure 2A-3).

Mounting Height

Standard: Th e provisions of this MUTCD Section shall apply unless specifi cally stated otherwise for a particular sign or object marker elsewhere in the MUTCD and this Handbook.

Support: Th e mounting height requirements for object markers are provided in MUTCD chapter 2C. In addition to the provisions of this MUTCD Section, information aff ecting the minimum mounting height of signs as a function of crash performance can be found in AASHTO’s “Roadside Design Guide” (see MUTCD Section 1A.11).

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A. One sign supplements another;• B. Route or directional signs are grouped to clarify information • to motorists;C. Regulatory signs that do not confl ict with each other are • grouped, such as turn prohibition signs posted with one way signs or a parking regulation sign posted with a speed limit sign; orD. Street name signs are posted with a stop or yield sign.•

Signs should be located so that they:

A. Are outside the clear zone unless placed on a breakaway or • yielding support (see MUTCD Section 2A.19),B. Optimize nighttime visibility,• C. Minimize the eff ects of mud splatter and debris,• D. Do not obscure each other,• E. Do not obscure the sight distance to approaching vehicles • on the major street for drivers who are stopped on minor-street approaches, andF. Are not hidden from view.•

Support: Th e clear zone is the total roadside border area, starting at the edge of the traveled way, available for use by errant vehicles. Th e width of the clear zone is dependent upon traffi c volumes, speeds, and roadside geometry. Additional information can be found in AASHTO’s “Roadside Design Guide” (see MUTCD Section 1A.11).

Guidance: With the increase in traffi c volumes and the desire to provide road users regulatory, warning, and guidance information, an order of priority for sign installation should be established.

Support: An order of priority is especially critical where space is limited for sign installation and there is a demand for several diff erent types

42

All route signs, warning signs, and regulatory signs on freeways and expressways shall be installed with a minimum height of 7 feet, measured vertically from the bottom of the sign to the elevation of the near edge of the pavement. If a secondary sign is mounted below another sign on a freeway or expressway, the major sign shall be installed with a minimum height of 8 feet and the secondary sign shall be installed with a minimum height of 5 feet, measured vertically from the bottom of the sign to the elevation of the near edge of the pavement. Where large signs having an area exceeding 50 square feet are installed on multiple breakaway posts, the clearance from the ground to the bottom of the sign shall be at least 7 feet.

Option: A route sign assembly consisting of a route sign and auxiliary signs (see MUTCD Section 2D.31) may be treated as a single sign for the purposes of this MUTCD Section. Th e mounting height may be adjusted when supports are located near the edge of the right-of-way on a steep backslope in order to avoid the sometimes less desirable alternative of placing the sign closer to the roadway.

Standard: Overhead signs shall provide a vertical clearance of not less than 17 feet to the sign, light fi xture, or sign bridge over the entire width of the pavement and shoulders except where the structure on which the overhead signs are to be mounted or other structures along the roadway near the sign structure have a lesser vertical clearance.

Option: If the vertical clearance of other structures along the roadway near the sign structure is less than 16 feet, the vertical clearance to an overhead sign structure or support may be as low as 1 foot higher than the vertical clearance of the other structures in order to improve the visibility of the overhead signs. In special cases it may be necessary to reduce the clearance to overhead signs because of substandard dimensions in tunnels and

45

Standard: Th e minimum height, measured vertically from the bottom of the sign to the elevation of the near edge of the pavement, of signs installed at the side of the road in rural areas shall be 5 feet (see MUTCD Figure 2A-2). Th e minimum height, measured vertically from the bottom of the sign to the top of the curb, or in the absence of curb, measured vertically from the bottom of the sign to the elevation of the near edge of the traveled way, of signs installed at the side of the road in business, commercial, or residential areas where parking or pedestrian movements are likely to occur, or where the view of the sign might be obstructed, shall be 7 feet (see MUTCD Figure 2A-2).

Option: Th e height to the bottom of a secondary sign mounted below another sign may be 1 foot less than the height specifi ed in Paragraphs 4 and 5.

Standard: Th e minimum height, measured vertically from the bottom of the sign to the sidewalk, of signs installed above sidewalks shall be 7 feet. If the bottom of a secondary sign that is mounted below another sign is mounted lower than 7 feet above a pedestrian sidewalk or pathway (see MUTCD Section 6D.02), the secondary sign shall not project more than 4 inches into the pedestrian facility.

Option: Signs that are placed 30 feet or more from the edge of the traveled way may be installed with a minimum height of 5 feet, measured vertically from the bottom of the sign to the elevation of the near edge of the pavement.

Standard: Directional signs on freeways and expressways shall be installed with a minimum height of 7 feet, measured vertically from the bottom of the sign to the elevation of the near edge of the pavement.

44

Option: Where permitted, signs may be placed on existing supports used for other purposes, such as highway traffi c signal supports, highway lighting supports, and utility poles.

Standard: If signs are placed on existing supports, they shall meet other placement criteria contained in the MUTCD and this Handbook.

Option: Lesser lateral off sets may be used on connecting roadways or ramps at interchanges, but not less than 6 feet from the edge of the traveled way. On conventional roads in areas where it is impractical to locate a sign with the lateral off set prescribed by this Section, a lateral off set of at least 2 feet may be used. A lateral off set of at least 1 foot from the face of the curb may be used in business, commercial or residential areas where sidewalk width is limited or where existing poles are close to the curb.

Guidance: Overhead sign supports and post-mounted sign and object marker supports should not intrude into the usable width of a sidewalk or other pedestrian facility.

Support: MUTCD Figures 2A-2 and 2A-3 illustrate some examples of the lateral off set requirements contained in this Section.

Position of Signs

Support: MUTCD Sections 2A.16 and 2A.17 contain provisions regarding the placements and locations of signs. MUTCD Section 2A.19 contains provisions regarding the lateral off sets of signs.

47

other major structures such as double-deck bridges.

Support: MUTCD Figure 2A-2 illustrates some examples of the mounting height requirements contained in this MUTCD Section.

Lateral Off set

Standard: For overhead sign supports, the minimum lateral off set from the edge of the shoulder (or if no shoulder exists, from the edge of the pavement) to the near edge of overhead sign supports (cantilever or sign bridges) shall be 6 feet. Overhead sign supports shall have a barrier or crash cushion to shield them if they are within the clear zone. Post-mounted sign and object marker supports shall be crashworthy (breakaway, yielding, or shielded with a longitudinal barrier or crash cushion) if within the clear zone.

Guidance: For post-mounted signs, the minimum lateral off set should be 12 feet from the edge of the traveled way. If a shoulder wider than 6 feet exists, the minimum lateral off set for post-mounted signs should be 6 feet from the edge of the shoulder.

Support: Th e minimum lateral off set requirements for object markers are provided in MUTCD chapter 2C.Th e minimum lateral off set is intended to keep trucks and cars that use the shoulders from striking the signs or supports.

Guidance: All supports should be located as far as practical from the edge of the shoulder. Advantage should be taken to place signs behind existing roadside barriers, on over-crossing structures, or other locations that minimize the exposure of the traffi c to sign supports.

46

Option: Where engineering judgment indicates a need to draw attention to the sign during nighttime conditions, a strip of retrorefl ective material may be used on regulatory and warning sign supports.

Standard: If a strip of retrorefl ective material is used on the sign support, it shall be at least 2 inches in width, it shall be placed for the full length of the support from the sign to within 2 feet above the edge of the roadway, and its color shall match the background color of the sign, except that the color of the strip for the YIELD and DO NOT ENTER signs shall be red.

Maintenance

Guidance: Maintenance activities should consider proper position, cleanliness, legibility, and daytime and nighttime visibility (see MUTCD Section 2A.09). Damaged or deteriorated signs, gates, or object markers should be replaced. To assure adequate maintenance, a schedule for inspecting (both day and night), cleaning, and replacing signs, gates, and object markers should be established. Employees of highway, law enforcement, and other public agencies whose duties require that they travel on the roadways should be encouraged to report any damaged, deteriorated, or obscured signs, gates, or object markers at the fi rst opportunity. Steps should be taken to see that weeds, trees, shrubbery, and construction, maintenance, and utility materials and equipment do not obscure the face of any sign or object marker. A regular schedule of replacement of lighting elements for illuminated signs should be maintained.

Note: NHDOT Highway Districts will be responsible for the removal of brush and other non-winter related obstructions around the sign within the normal State Right-of-Way. Highway Districts will not conduct brush or tree cutting operations on Town/City roads to increase sight distance to Stop/Yield signs. Brush or tree cutting on Town/City roads to expose Stop/Yield signs is the responsibility of the Town/City.

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Option: In-roadway signs for school traffi c control areas may be used consistent with the requirements of MUTCD Sections 2B.12, 7B.08, and 7B.12.

Orientation

Guidance: Unless otherwise provided in the MUTCD and this Handbook, signs should be vertically mounted at right angles to the direction of, and facing, the traffi c that they are intended to serve. Where mirror refl ection from the sign face is encountered to such a degree as to reduce legibility, the sign should be turned slightly away from the road. Signs that are placed 30 feet or more from the pavement edge should be turned toward the road. On curved alignments, the angle of placement should be determined by the direction of approaching traffi c rather than by the roadway edge at the point where the sign is located.

Option: On grades, sign faces may be tilted forward or back from the vertical position to improve the viewing angle.

Posts and Mountings

Standard: Sign posts, foundations, and mountings shall be so constructed as to hold signs in a proper and permanent position, and to resist swaying in the wind or displacement by vandalism.

Support: Th e latest edition of AASHTO’s “Specifi cations for Structural Supports for Highway Signs, Luminaires, and Traffi c Signals” contains additional information regarding posts and mounting (see MUTCD Page i for AASHTO’s address).

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CHAPTER 1

INTERSECTIONS

Introduction

Th is chapter covers signs used to make intersections safer. Th ese signs restrict motorists approaching and entering an intersection. Drivers should have an unobstructed view of intersections and roads to stop or slow their vehicle and avoid collisions. Th e safe minimum sight distance is directly related to vehicle speeds, which infl uence the distance traveled after the driver sees the situation, reacts, and brakes. Intersections on low volume rural roads can often operate satisfactorily under the basic rules of right-of-way for uncontrolled intersections.• Th e vehicle that arrives at the intersection fi rst has the right-of-way.• If two vehicles arrive at an intersection at the same time, the vehicle on the left must yield the right-of way to the vehicle on the right. State statutes grant municipal governing bodies authority over highways under their jurisdiction. STOP and YIELD signs must have duly enacted regulations under these statutes2. STOP and YIELD signs modify the basic right-of-way rules by assigning right-of-way. Municipal offi cials should install STOP and YIELD signs to give right-of-way to drivers on the highway with heavier traffi c volume, the higher speed, and/or the appearance of being the major road. Offi cials should consult a traffi c engineer when these characteristics vary at an intersection and also for intersections that have unusual geometry, unexpected traffi c confl icts, or both.

Note: Th e NHDOT will maintain STOP and YIELD signs on local roads that intersect with state roads. Municipalities are responsible for removing trees, limbs, and brush, and for advanced warning signs within the Town/City Rights-of-Way.

2 City Council authority is described in RSA 47:17, vii, viii, and xviii. Boards of selectpersons authority are described in RSA 41:11.

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4P) plaque (and other plaques with variations of this word message) is described in MUTCD Section 2C.59.

Guidance: Plaques with the appropriate alternative messages of TRAFFIC FROM LEFT (RIGHT) DOES NOT STOP (W4-4aP) or ONCOMING TRAFFIC DOES NOT STOP (W4-4bP) should be used at intersections where STOP signs control all but one approach to the intersection, unless the only non-stopped approach is from a one-way street.

Option: An EXCEPT RIGHT TURN (R1-10P) plaque (see MUTCD Figure 2B-1) may be mounted below the STOP sign if an engineering study determines that a special combination of geometry and traffi c volumes is present that makes it possible for right-turning traffi c on the approach to be permitted to enter the intersection without stopping.

Support: Th e design and application of Stop Beacons are described in MUTCD Section 4L.05.

Note: Towns/Cities are required to maintain a record of Stop/Yield signs.

STOP Sign Applications

Guidance: At intersections where a full stop is not necessary at all times, consideration should fi rst be given to using less restrictive measures such as YIELD signs (see MUTCD Sections 2B.08 and 2B.09). Th e use of STOP signs on the minor-street approaches should be considered if engineering judgment indicates that a stop is always required because of one or more of the following conditions:

A. Th e vehicular traffi c volumes on the through street or highway •

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Support: Th e purpose of a regulatory sign is to inform highway users of traffi c laws or regulations, and to indicate the applicability of legal requirements that would not otherwise be apparent. Th e provisions for regulatory signs are contained in MUTCD Chapter 2B and in other Sections of the MUTCD and this Handbook. Provisions for regulatory signs that are specifi c to low-volume roads are contained in this Chapter.

STOP Sign (R1-1) and ALL WAY Plaque (R1-3P)

Standard: When it is determined that a full stop is always required on an approach to an intersection, a STOP (R1-1) sign (see MUTCD 0 2B-1) shall be used. Th e STOP sign shall be an octagon with a white legend and border on a red background. Secondary legends shall not be used on STOP sign faces.

At intersections where all approaches are controlled by STOP signs (see MUTCD Section 2B.07), an ALL WAY supplemental plaque (R1-3P) shall be mounted below each STOP sign. Th e ALL WAY plaque (see MUTCD Figure 2B-1) shall have a white legend and border on a red background.

Th e ALL WAY plaque shall only be used if all intersection approaches are controlled by STOP signs. Supplemental plaques with legends such as 2-WAY, 3-WAY, 4-WAY, or other numbers of ways shall not be used with STOP signs.

Support: Th e use of the CROSS TRAFFIC DOES NOT STOP (W4-

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codes shall be mounted on the backs of STOP or YIELD signs. No items other than retrorefl ective strips (see MUTCD Section 2A.21) or offi cial traffi c control signs shall be mounted on the fronts or backs of STOP or YIELD signs supports.

Guidance: STOP or YIELD signs should not be placed farther than 50 feet from the edge of the pavement of the intersected roadway (see Drawing F in MUTCD Figure 2A-3). A sign that is mounted back-to-back with a STOP or YIELD sign should stay within the edges of the STOP or YIELD sign. If necessary, the size of the STOP or YIELD sign should be increased so that any other sign installed back-to-back with a STOP or YIELD sign remains within the edges of the STOP or YIELD sign.

Option: Where drivers proceeding straight ahead

must yield to traffi c approaching from the opposite direction, such as at a one-lane bridge, a TO ONCOMING TRAFFIC (R1-2aP) plaque may be mounted below the YIELD sign.

Support: MUTCD Figure 2A-3 shows examples of

some typical placements of STOP signs and YIELD signs. MUTCD Section 2A.16 contains additional information about separate and combined mounting of other signs with STOP or YIELD signs.

Guidance: Stop lines that are used to supplement a STOP sign should be located as described in MUTCD Section 3B.16. Yield lines that are used to supplement a YIELD sign should be located as described in MUTCD Section 3B.16. Where there is a marked crosswalk at the intersection, the STOP sign should be installed in advance of the crosswalk line nearest to

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exceed 6,000 vehicles per day;B. A restricted view exists that requires road users to stop in • order to adequately observe confl icting traffi c on the through street or highway; and/orC. Crash records indicate that three or more crashes that are • susceptible to correction by the installation of a STOP sign have been reported within a 12-month period, or that fi ve or more such crashes have been reported within a 2-year period. Such crashes include right-angle collisions involving road users on the minor-street approach failing to yield the right-of-way to traffi c on the through street or highway.

Support: Th e use of STOP signs at grade crossings is described in MUTCD Sections 8B.04 and 8B.05.

STOP Sign or YIELD Sign Placement

Standard: Th e STOP or YIELD sign shall be installed on the near side of the intersection on the right-hand side of the approach to which it applies. When the STOP or YIELD sign is installed at this required location and the sign visibility is restricted, a Stop Ahead sign (see MUTCD Section 2C.36) shall be installed in advance of the STOP sign or a Yield Ahead sign (see MUTCD Section 2C.36) shall be installed in advance of the YIELD sign. Th e STOP or YIELD sign shall be located as close as practical to the intersection it regulates, while optimizing its visibility to the road user it is intended to regulate. STOP signs and YIELD signs shall not be mounted on the same post. No items other than inventory stickers, sign installation dates, and bar codes shall be affi xed to the fronts of STOP or YIELD signs, and the placement of these items shall be in the border of the sign. No items other than offi cial traffi c control signs, inventory stickers, sign installation dates, anti-vandalism stickers, and bar

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indicates that road users would expect an acceleration lane to be present.

Note: NHDOT standard is to place the stop sign four feet from the crosswalk.

STOP and YIELD Signs (R1-1 and R1-2) on Low Volume Roads

Guidance: STOP (R1-1) and YIELD (R1-2) signs (see MUTCD Figure 5B-1) should be considered for use on low-volume roads where engineering judgment or study, consistent with the provisions of MUTCD Sections 2B.04 to 2B.10, indicates that either of the following conditions applies:

A. An intersection of a less-important road with a main road where application of the normal right-of-way rule might not be readily apparent.B. An intersection that has restricted sight distance for the prevailing vehicle speeds.

YIELD Sign Applications

Option: YIELD signs may be installed:

A. On the approaches to a through street or highway where • conditions are such that a full stop is not always required.B. At the second crossroad of a divided highway, where the • median width at the intersection is 30 feet or greater. In this case, a STOP or YIELD sign may be installed at the entrance to the fi rst roadway of a divided highway, and a YIELD sign may be installed at the entrance to the second roadway.C. For a channelized turn lane that is separated from the • adjacent travel lanes by an island, even if the adjacent lanes at the intersection are controlled by a highway traffi c control signal or by a STOP sign.

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the approaching traffi c. Except at roundabouts, where there is a marked crosswalk at the intersection, the YIELD sign should be installed in advance of the crosswalk line nearest to the approaching traffi c. Where two roads intersect at an acute angle, the STOP or YIELD sign should be positioned at an angle, or shielded, so that the legend is out of view of traffi c to which it does not apply. If a raised splitter island is available on the left-hand side of a multi-lane roundabout approach, an additional YIELD sign should be placed on the left-hand side of the approach.

Option: If a raised splitter island is available on the left-hand side of a single lane roundabout approach, an additional YIELD sign may be placed on the left-hand side of the approach. At wide-throat intersections or where two or more approach lanes of traffi c exist on the signed approach, observance of the right-of-way control may be improved by the installation of an additional STOP or YIELD sign on the left-hand side of the road and/or the use of a stop or yield line. At channelized intersections or at divided roadways separated by a median, the additional STOP or YIELD sign may be placed on a channelizing island or in the median. An additional STOP or YIELD sign may also be placed overhead facing the approach at the intersection to improve observance of the right-of-way control.

Standard: More than one STOP sign or more than one YIELD sign shall not be placed on the same support facing in the same direction.

Option: For a yield-controlled channelized right-turn movement onto a roadway without an acceleration lane and for an entrance ramp onto a freeway or expressway without an acceleration lane, a NO MERGE AREA (W4-5P) supplemental plaque (see MUTCD Section 2C.40) may be mounted below a Yield Ahead (W3-2) sign and/or below a YIELD (R1-2) sign when engineering judgment

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to permit the road user to bring the vehicle to a stop, if necessary, at the YIELD sign.

Note: NHDOT will not erect or maintain such signs. Town/City offi cials will determine the necessity of their installation and maintenance by using the standards in the MUTCD 2009 Edition.

Traffi c Movement and Prohibition Signs (R3, R4, R5, R6, R9, R10, R11, R12, R13, and R14 Series)

Support: Th e regulatory signs (see MUTCD Figure 5B-1) in these series inform road users of required, permitted, or prohibited traffi c movements involving turn, alignment, exclusion, and pedestrians.

Standard: If used, signs for traffi c prohibitions or restrictions shall be placed in advance of the prohibition or restriction so that traffi c can use an alternate route or turn around.

Guidance: Signs should be used on low-volume roads to indicate traffi c prohibitions and restrictions such as road closures and weight restrictions.

Option: Signs for traffi c prohibitions or restrictions may be used on a low-volume road near and at the intersections or the connections with a higher class of road, and where the regulatory message is essential for transition from the low-volume road to the higher-class facility or vice versa.

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D. At an intersection where a special problem exists and where • engineering judgment indicates the problem to be susceptible to correction by the use of the YIELD sign.E. Facing the entering roadway for a merge-type movement if • engineering judgment indicates that control is needed because acceleration geometry and/or sight distance is not adequate for merging traffi c operation.

Standard: A YIELD (R1-2) sign shall be used to assign right-of-way at the entrance to a roundabout. YIELD signs at roundabouts shall be used to control the approach roadways and shall not be used to control the circulatory roadway. Other than for all of the approaches to a roundabout, YIELD signs shall not be placed on all of the approaches to an intersection.

Stop Ahead and Yield Ahead Signs (W3-1, W3-2)

Standard: A Stop Ahead (W3-1) sign (see MUTCD Figure 5C-2) shall be used where a STOP sign is not visible for a suffi cient distance to permit the road user to bring the vehicle to a stop at the STOP sign. A Yield Ahead (W3-2) sign (see MUTCD Figure 5C-2) shall be used where a YIELD sign is not visible for a suffi cient distance to permit the road user to bring the vehicle to a stop, if necessary, at the YIELD sign. Stop Ahead and Yield Ahead Signs (W3-1, W3-2)

Standard: A Stop Ahead (W3-1) sign (see MUTCD Figure 5C-2) shall be used where a STOP sign is not visible for a suffi cient distance to permit the road user to bring the vehicle to a stop at the STOP sign.

A Yield Ahead (W3-2) sign (see MUTCD Figure 5C-2) shall be used where a YIELD sign is not visible for a suffi cient distance

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WRONG WAY Sign (R5-1a)

Option: Th e WRONG WAY (R5-1a) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2B-11) may be used as a supplement to the DO NOT ENTER sign where an exit ramp intersects a crossroad or a crossroad intersects a one-way roadway in a manner that does not physically discourage or prevent wrong-way entry (see MUTCD Figure 2B-12).

Note: NHDOT Standard is to use Type III sheeting (Hi-Intensity “honeycomb sheeting”).

Guidance: If used, the WRONG WAY sign should be placed at a location along the exit ramp or the one-way roadway farther from the crossroad than the DO NOT ENTER sign (see MUTCD Section 2B.41).

Support: MUTCD Section 2B.41 contains information regarding an optional lower mounting height for WRONG WAY signs that are located along an exit ramp facing a road user who is traveling in the wrong direction.

ONE WAY Signs (R6-1, R6-2)

Standard: Except as provided in Paragraph 6, the ONE WAY (R6-1 or R6-2) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2B-13) shall be used to indicate streets or roadways upon which vehicular traffi c is allowed to travel in one direction only. ONE WAY signs shall be placed parallel to the one-way street at all alleys and roadways that

intersect one-way roadways as shown in MUTCD Figure 2B-14. At an intersection with a divided highway that has a median width at the intersection itself of 30 feet or more, ONE WAY signs

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DO NOT ENTER Sign (R5-1)

Standard: Th e DO NOT ENTER (R5-1) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2B-11) shall be used where traffi c is prohibited from entering a restricted roadway.

Note: NHDOT Standard is to use Type III sheeting (Hi-Intensity“honeycomb sheeting”).

Guidance: Th e DO NOT ENTER sign, if used, should be placed directly in view of a road user at the point where a road user could wrongly enter a divided highway, one-way roadway, or ramp (see MUTCD Figure 2B-12). Th e sign should be mounted on the right-hand side of the roadway, facing traffi c that might enter the roadway or ramp in the wrong direction. If the DO NOT ENTER sign would be visible to traffi c to which it does not apply, the sign should be turned away from, or shielded from, the view of that traffi c.

Option: Th e DO NOT ENTER sign may be installed where it is necessary to emphasize the one-way traffi c movement on a ramp or turning lane. A second DO NOT ENTER sign on the left-hand side of the roadway may be used, particularly where traffi c approaches from an intersecting roadway (see MUTCD Figure 2B-12).

Support: MUTCD Section 2B.41 contains information regarding an optional lower mounting height for DO NOT ENTER signs that are located along an exit ramp facing a road user who is traveling in the wrong direction.

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and right shall not be used in the central island of a roundabout.

Guidance: Th e Two-Direction Large Arrow sign should be visible for a suffi cient distance to provide the road user with adequate time to react to the intersection confi guration.

Intersection Warning Signs (W2-1 through W2-6)

Support: Intersection signs (see MUTCD Figure 5C-1) include the crossroad, side road, T-symbol, Y-symbol, and circular intersection signs.

Option: Intersection signs may be used where engineering judgment indicates a need to inform the road user in advance of an intersection.

Option: For local roads with speed limits of 25 mph or less, the lettering height may be a minimum of 4 inches Supplementary lettering to indicate the type of street (such as Street, Avenue, or Road) may be in smaller lettering, at least 3 inches high. At intersection crossroads where the same road has two diff erent street names for each direction of travel, both street names may be shown on the same sign along with directional arrows.

Street Name Signs (D3-1 or D3-1a)

Guidance: Street Name (D3-1 or D3-1a) signs (see MUTCD Figure 2D-10) should be installed in urban areas at all street intersections regardless of other route signs that might be present and should be installed in rural areas to identify important roads that are not otherwise signed.

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shall be placed, visible to each crossroad approach, on the near right and far left corners of each intersection with the directional roadways (see MUTCD Figure 2B-15). At an intersection with a divided highway that has a median width at the intersection itself of less than 30 feet, Keep Right (R4-7) signs and/or ONE WAY signs shall be installed (see MUTCD Figures 2B-16 and 2B-17). If Keep Right signs are installed, they shall be placed as close as practical to the approach ends of the medians and shall be visible to traffi c on the divided highway and each crossroad approach. If ONE WAY signs are installed, they shall be placed on the near right and far left corners of the intersection and shall be visible to each crossroad approach.

Option: At an intersection with a divided highway that has a median width at the intersection itself of less than 30 feet, ONE WAY signs may also be placed on the far right corner of the intersection as shown in MUTCD Figures 2B-16 and 2B-17. ONE WAY signs may be omitted on the one-way roadways of divided highways, where the design of interchanges indicates the direction of traffi c on the separate roadways.

Two-Direction Large Arrow Sign (W1-7)

Standard: Th e Two-Direction Large Arrow (W1-7) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2C-9) shall be a horizontal rectangle.

If used, it shall be installed on the far side of a T-intersection in line with, and at approximately a right angle to, traffi c approaching from the stem of the T-intersection. Th e Two-Direction Large Arrow sign shall not be used where there is no change in the direction of travel such as at the beginnings and ends of medians or at center piers.

Th e Two-Direction Large Arrow sign directing traffi c to the left

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CHAPTER 2

TURNS AND CURVES

Introduction

TURN and CURVE warning signs inform drivers of unexpected bends or turns in the road. To determine if a sign is needed at a location, or which sign to use, road managers should consider approach speed, posted speed, and advisory speed. Th e approach speed is the speed at which vehicles normally travel on the road immediately before the curve. It is the 85th percentile prevailing speed on the approach roadway. Advisory speed is the maximum speed, rounded to the nearest 5 miles per hour, at which vehicles can safely and comfortably travel through the curve or turn. To determine these speeds, the municipality should conduct an engineering study as described in Appendix C.

Do Not Pass Sign (R4-1)

Option: Th e Do Not Pass (R4-1) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2B-10) may be used in addition to pavement markings (see MUTCD Section 3B.02) to emphasize the restriction on passing. Th e Do Not Pass sign may be used at the beginning of, and at intervals within, a zone through which sight distance is restricted or

where other conditions make overtaking and passing inappropriate. If signing is needed on the left-hand side of the roadway for additional emphasis, NO PASSING ZONE (W14-3) signs may be used (see MUTCD Section 2C.45).

Support: Standards for determining the location and extent of no-passing zone pavement markings are set forth

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Option: For streets that are part of a U.S., State, or county numbered route, a D3-1a Street Name sign (see MUTCD Figure 2D-10) that incorporates a route shield may be used to assist road users who might not otherwise be able to associate the name of the street with the route number.

Standard: Th e lettering for names of streets and highways on Street Name signs shall be composed of a combination of lower-case letters with initial upper-case letters (see MUTCD Section 2A.13).

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degrees, such as on a cloverleaf interchange ramp, the 270-degree Loop (W1-15) sign may be used instead of a Curve or Turn sign.

Guidance: When the Hairpin Curve sign or the 270-degree Loop sign is installed, either a One-Direction Large Arrow (W1-6) sign or Chevron Alignment (W1-8) signs should be installed on the outside of the turn or curve.

Horizontal Alignment Signs (W1-1 through W1-8) on Low Volume Roads

Support: Horizontal Alignment signs (see MUTCD Sections 2C.06 through 2C.12 and Figure 5C-1) include turn, curve, reverse turn, reverse curve, winding road, large arrow, and chevron alignment signs.

Option: Horizontal Alignment signs may be used where engineering judgment indicates a need to inform the road user of a change in the horizontal alignment of the roadway.

One-Direction Large Arrow Sign (W1-6)

Option: A One-Direction Large Arrow (W1-6) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2C-1) may be used either as a supplement or alternative to Chevron Alignment signs in order to delineate a change in horizontal alignment (see MUTCD Figure 2C-2). A One-Direction Large Arrow (W1-6) sign may be used to supplement a Turn or Reverse Turn sign (see MUTCD Figure 2C-2) to emphasize the abrupt curvature.

Standard: Th e One-Direction Large Arrow sign shall be a horizontal

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in MUTCD Section 3B.02.

Horizontal Alignment Signs (W1-1 through W1-5, W1-11, W1-15)

Standard: If MUTCD Table 2C-5 indicates that a horizontal alignment sign (see MUTCD Figure 2C-1) is required, recommended, or allowed, the sign installed in advance of the curve shall be a Curve (W1-2) sign unless a diff erent sign is recommended or allowed by the provisions of this Section. A Turn (W1-1) sign shall be used instead of a Curve sign in advance of curves that have advisory speeds of 30 mph or less (see MUTCD Figure 2C-2).

Guidance: Where there are two changes in roadway alignment in opposite directions that are separated by a tangent distance of less than 600 feet, the Reverse Turn (W1-3) sign should be used instead of multiple Turn (W1-1) signs and the Reverse Curve (W1-4) sign should be used instead of multiple Curve (W1-2) signs.

Option: A Winding Road (W1-5) sign may be used instead of multiple Turn (W1-1) or Curve (W1-2) signs where there are three or more changes in roadway alignment each separated by a tangent distance of less than 600 feet.

A NEXT XX MILES (W7-3aP) supplemental distance plaque (see MUTCD Section 2C.55) may be installed below the Winding Road sign where continuous roadway curves exist for a specifi c distance. If the curve has a change in horizontal alignment of 135 degrees or more, the Hairpin Curve (W1-11) sign maybe used instead of a Curve or Turn sign.

If the curve has a change of direction of approximately 270

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Guidance: Th e approximate spacing of Chevron Alignment signs on the turn or curve measured from the point of curvature (PC) should be as shown in MUTCD Table 2C-6. If used, Chevron Alignment signs should be visible for a suffi cient distance to provide the road user with adequate time to react to the change in alignment.

Standard: Chevron Alignment signs shall not be placed on the far side of a T-intersection facing traffi c on the stem approach to warn drivers that a through movement is not physically possible, as this is the function of a Two-Direction (or One-Direction) Large Arrow sign.Chevron Alignment signs shall not be used to mark obstructions within or adjacent to the roadway, including the beginning of guardrails or barriers, as this is the function of an object marker (see MUTCD Section 2C.63).

Combination Horizontal Alignment/Advisory Speed Signs (W1-1a, W1-2a)

Option: Th e Turn (W1-1) sign or the Curve (W1-2) sign may be combined with the Advisory Speed (W13-1P) plaque (see MUTCD Section 2C.08) to create a combination Turn/Advisory Speed (W1-1a) sign or combination Curve/Advisory Speed (W1-2a) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2C-1). Th e combination Horizontal Alignment/Advisory Speed sign may be used to supplement the advance Horizontal Alignment warning sign and Advisory Speed plaque based upon an engineering study.

Standard: If used, the combination Horizontal Alignment/Advisory Speed sign shall not be used alone and shall not be used as a substitute for a Horizontal Alignment warning sign and Advisory Speed plaque

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rectangle with an arrow pointing to the left or right. Th e use of the One-Direction Large Arrow sign shall be in accordance with the information shown in MUTCD Table 2C-5. If used, the One-Direction Large Arrow sign shall be installed on the outside of a turn or curve in line with and at approximately a right angle to approaching traffi c. Th e One-Direction Large Arrow sign shall not be used where there is no alignment change in the direction of travel, such as at the beginnings and ends of medians or at center piers. Th e One-Direction Large Arrow sign directing traffi c to the right shall not be used in the central island of a roundabout.

Guidance: If used, the One-Direction Large Arrow sign should be visible for a suffi cient distance to provide the road user with adequate time to react to the change in alignment.

Chevron Alignment Sign (W1-8)

Standard: Th e use of the Chevron Alignment (W1-8) sign (see MUTCD Figures 2C-1 and 2C-2) to provide additional emphasis and guidance for a change in horizontal alignment shall be in accordance with the information shown in MUTCD Table 2C-5.

Option: When used, Chevron Alignment signs may be used instead of or in addition to standard delineators.

Standard: Th e Chevron Alignment sign shall be a vertical rectangle. No border shall be used on the Chevron Alignment sign. If used, Chevron Alignment signs shall be installed on the outside of a turn or curve, in line with and at approximately a right angle to approaching traffi c. Chevron Alignment signs shall be installed at a minimum height of 4 feet, measured vertically from the bottom of the sign to the elevation of the near edge of the traveled way.

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information shown in MUTCD Table 2C-5.

Advisory Speed Plaque (W13-1P)

Option: In combination with a warning sign, an Advisory Speed (W13-1P) plaque (see MUTCD Figure 6F-4) may be used to indicate a recommended speed through the TTC zone.

Standard: Th e Advisory Speed plaque shall not be used in conjunction with any sign other than a warning sign, nor shall it be used alone. When used with orange TTC zone signs, this plaque shall have a black legend and border on an orange background. Th e sign shall be at least 24 x 24 inches in size when used with a sign that is 36 x 36 inches or larger. Except in emergencies, an Advisory Speed plaque shall not be mounted until the recommended speed is determined by the highway agency.

Note: NHDOT recommends that the advisory speed plaque be used only in conjunction with other signage such as: curve and turn signs, hill signs, bump, dip, pavement ends, and rough road.

Advisory Speed Plaque (W13-1P) on Low Volume Roads

Option: An Advisory Speed (W13-1P) plaque (see MUTCD Figure 5C-1) may be mounted below a warning sign when the condition requires a reduced speed.

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at the advance warning location. Th e combination Horizontal Alignment/Advisory Speed sign shall only be used as a supplement to the advance Horizontal Alignment warning sign. If used, the combination Horizontal Alignment/Advisory Speed sign shall be installed at the beginning of the turn or curve.

Guidance: Th e advisory speed displayed on the combination Horizontal Alignment/Advisory Speed sign should be based on the advisory speed for the horizontal curve using recommended engineering practices (see MUTCD Section 2C.08).

Combination Horizontal Alignment/Intersection Signs (W1-10 Series)

Option: Th e Turn (W1-1) sign or the Curve (W1-2) sign may be combined with the Cross Road (W2-1) sign or the Side Road (W2-2 or W2-3) sign to create a combination Horizontal Alignment/Intersection (W1-10 series) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2C-1) that depicts the condition where an intersection occurs within or immediately adjacent to a turn or curve.

Guidance: Elements of the combination Horizontal Alignment/Intersection sign related to horizontal alignment should comply with the provisions of MUTCD Section 2C.07, and elements related to intersection confi guration should comply with the provisions of MUTCD Section 2C.46. Th e symbol design should approximate the confi guration of the intersecting roadway(s). No more than one Cross Road or two Side Road symbols should be displayed on any one combination Horizontal Alignment/Intersection sign.

Standard: Th e use of the combination Horizontal Alignment/Intersection sign shall be in accordance with the appropriate Turn or Curve sign

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CHAPTER 3

BRIDGES AND CULVERTS

Introduction

Bridges and culverts often restrict traffi c more than the approaching roadway. It is then necessary to have signs so drivers have suffi cient information to safely negotiate the narrowed roadway, low clearance, or a weight restricted bridge or culvert. State law (RSA 266:18-c) requires that highway agencies give notice of restricted bridges as follows:

V. It shall be the duty of the commissioner of transportation to cause signs to be erected at both ends on the right side of or overhead on all bridges or other structures under his jurisdiction stating the capacity in tons of 2,000 pounds which the bridge or other structure will safely carry. As an alternative to posting signs with stated weight limits, the commissioner of transportation may, at his discretion, post standardized warning signs designating certain restricted bridges as caution crossing bridges, or as excluded bridges, and publish a list which designates all such bridges so conditioned at least annually. For all other bridges or other structures it shall be the duty of the authority having jurisdiction to place similar signs. (emphasis added) Th e signing message for posting of weight limits for bridges and structures shall read as follows:

WEIGHT LIMIT X TONS If the authority determines that a bridge or other structure may safely carry loads greater than this limit by vehicles with 3 or more axles, the signs shall read as follows:

GROSS WEIGHT LIMIT X TONS OR Y% OF LEGAL LOADS

“X” is the numerical value that equals the posted maximum legal

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Distance Plaques (W16-2 Series, W16-3 Series, W16-4P, W7-3aP)

Option: Th e Distance Ahead (W16-2 series and W16-3 series) plaques (see MUTCD Figure 2C-12) may be used to inform the road user of

the distance to the condition indicated by the warning sign.Th e Next Distance (W7-3aP and W16-4P) plaques (see MUTCD Figures 2C-4 and 2C-12) may be used to inform road users of the length of roadway over which the condition indicated by the warning sign exists.

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NARROW BRIDGE Sign (W5-2)

Guidance: A NARROW BRIDGE (W5-2) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2C-5) should be used in advance of any bridge or culvert having a two-way roadway clearance width of 16 to 18 feet, or any bridge or culvert having a roadway clearance less than the width of the approach travel lanes.

Additional emphasis should be provided by the use of object markers, delineators, and/or pavement markings.

Option: A NARROW BRIDGE sign may be used in advance of a bridge or culvert on which the approach shoulders are narrowed

or eliminated.

NARROW BRIDGE Sign (W5-2) on Low Volume Roads

Option: Th e NARROW BRIDGE (W5-2) sign (see MUTCD Figure 5C-2) may be used on an approach to a bridge or culvert that has a clear width less than that of the approach roadway.

ONE LANE BRIDGE Sign (W5-3)

Guidance: A ONE LANE BRIDGE (W5-3) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2C-5) should be used on two-way roadways in advance of any bridge or culvert:

A. Having a clear roadway width of less than 16 feet, or• B. Having a clear roadway width of less than 18 feet when • commercial vehicles constitute a high proportion of the traffi c, orC. Having a clear roadway width of 18 feet or less where the •

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gross weight limit for a 2-axle vehicle. “Y%” is the numerical value expressed as a percentage of the maximum legal gross weight limit of any single axle or tandem axle, and the combined gross weight limit of any 3-axle truck or any combination as noted in this section. Where no special permit loads are allowed, the signing message for posting shall read as follows:

NO PERMIT LOAD LEGAL LOADS MAXIMUM

Upon bridges or other structures of suffi cient strength to carry safely the legal loads permissible by this section, no such signs shall be required.

Th is law refers to an additional posting requirement for loads in excess of normal legal limits. Th ese “Certifi ed Load” post¬ings -- designated E-1, E-2, C-1, C-2, or C-3 -- are shown on the NHDOT bridge inspection reports. Th e municipality is respon¬sible for installing and maintaining the appropriate 12 inch by 12 inch black lettered on white refl ectorized background sign.

Weight Limit Signs (R12-1 through R12-5)

Option: Th e Weight Limit (R12-1) sign carrying the legend WEIGHT LIMIT XX TONS may be used to indicate vehicle weight restrictions including load. Where the restriction applies to axle weight rather than gross load, the legend may be AXLE WEIGHT LIMIT XX TONS or AXLE WEIGHT LIMIT XX LBS (R12-2).

To restrict trucks of certain sizes by reference to empty weight in residential areas, the legend may be NO TRUCKS OVER XX TONS EMPTY WT or NO TRUCKS OVER XX LBS EMPTY WT (R12-3).

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Where the clearance is less than the legal maximum vehicle height, the W12-2 sign with a supplemental distance plaque should be placed at the nearest intersecting road or wide point in the road at which a vehicle can detour or turn around. In the case of an arch or other structure under which the clearance varies greatly, two or more signs should be used as necessary on the structure itself to give information as to the clearances over the entire roadway. Clearances should be evaluated periodically, particularly when resurfacing operations have occurred.

Option: Th e Low Clearance sign may be installed on or in advance of the structure. If a sign is placed on the structure, it may be a rectangular shape (W12-2a) with the appropriate legend (see MUTCD Figure 2C-5).

Note: NHDOT advises:• Post clearance at 14’6” through 13’6”.• Post clearance 3” lower than actual height.• When clearance is less than 13’6” advance signage shall be installed to direct trucks to alternate routes or reverse direction.

Object Markers for Obstructions Adjacent to the Roadway

Support: Obstructions not actually within the roadway are sometimes so close to the edge of the road that they need a marker. Th ese include underpass piers, bridge abutments, handrails, ends of

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sight distance is limited on the approach to the structure.

Additional emphasis should be provided by the use of object markers, delineators, and/or pavement markings.

ONE LANE BRIDGE Sign (W5-3) on Low Volume Roads

Guidance: A ONE LANE BRIDGE (W5-3) sign (see MUTCD Figure 5C-2) should be used on low-volume two-way roadways in advance of any bridge or culvert:

A. Having a clear roadway width of less than 16 feet, orB. Having a clear roadway width of less than 18 feet when commercial vehicles constitute a high proportion of the traffi c, orC. Having a clear roadway width of 18 feet or less where the approach sight distance is limited on the approach to the structure.

Option: Roadway alignment and additional warning may be provided on the approach to a bridge or culvert by the use of object markers and/or delineators.

Low Clearance Signs (W12-2 and W12-2a)

Standard: Th e Low Clearance (W12-2) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2C-5) shall be used to warn road users of clearances less than 12 inches above the statutory maximum vehicle height.

Guidance: Th e actual clearance should be displayed on the Low Clearance sign to the nearest 1 inch not exceeding the actual clearance. However, in areas that experience changes in temperature causing frost action, a reduction, not exceeding 3 inches, should be used for this condition.

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CHAPTER 4

RAILROAD GRADE CROSSINGS

Introduction

Traffi c control systems at railroad-highway grade crossings promote safe and effi cient operation of rail and highway traffi c over grade crossings. Th ey provide appropriate information and suffi cient time for roadway users to make relatively uncomplicated decisions that will allow them to pass safely over the crossing. Traffi c control messages are communicated by various signals, signs, and pavement markings. Th e types, purpose and application of these devices are discussed in this part of the Handbook. Th e need for uniform application of standard devices cannot be overemphasized. To assure the safe operation of traffi c control systems at railroad-highway grade crossings, uniformity is national. Local governments are only responsible for the advance warning signs (W10 series) and appropriate pavement markings. Railroad crossing devices such as fl ashing light signals, automatic gates and crossbuck signs are the responsibility of the owning railroad. If the need for additional protection becomes evident, municipal offi cials should notify the New Hampshire Department of Transportation.

Grade Crossing Advance Warning Signs (W10 Series)Standard: A Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Advance Warning (W10-1) sign (see MUTCD Figure 8B-4) shall be used on each highway in advance of every highway-rail grade crossing, and every highway-LRT grade crossing in semi-exclusive alignments, except in the following circumstances:

A. On an approach to a grade crossing • from a T-intersection with a parallel

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traffi c barriers, utility poles, and culvert headwalls. In other cases there might not be a physical object involved, but other roadside conditions exist, such as narrow shoulders, drop-off s, gores, small islands, and abrupt changes in the roadway alignment, that might make it undesirable for a road user to leave the roadway, and therefore would create a need for a marker.

Standard: If a Type 2 or Type 3 object marker is used to mark an obstruction adjacent to the roadway, the edge of the object marker that is closest to the road user shall be installed in line with the closest edge of the obstruction. Where Type 3 object markers are applied to the approach ends of guardrail and other roadside appurtances, sheeting without a substrate shall be directly affi xed 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 retrorefl ective yellow stripes sloping downward at a angle of 45 degrees toward the side of the obstruction on which traffi c is to pass. Type 1 and Type 4 object markers shall not be used to mark obstructions adjacent to the roadway.

Guidance: Standard warning signs in this Chapter should also be used where applicable.

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parallel highway to warn road users making a turn that they will encounter a grade crossing soon after making a turn, and a W10-1 sign for the approach to the tracks shall not be required to be between the tracks and the parallel highway.

If the W10-2, W10-3, or W10-4 signs are used, sign placement in accordance with the guidelines for Intersection Warning signs in MUTCD Table 2C-4 using the speed of through traffi c shall be measured from the highway intersection.

Guidance: If the distance between the tracks

and the parallel highway, from the edge of the tracks to the edge of the parallel roadway, is 100 feet or more, a W10-1 sign should be installed in advance of the grade crossing, and the W10-2, W10-3, or W10-4 signs should not be used on the parallel highway.

Grade Crossing Advance Warning Signs (W10 Series) on Low Volume Roads

Standard: Except as provided in Paragraph 2, a Grade Crossing Advance Warning (W10-1) sign (see MUTCD Figure 5F-1) shall be used on all low-volume roads in advance of every highway-rail grade crossing.

Option: Th e Grade Crossing Advance Warning sign may be omitted for highway-rail grade crossings that are fl agged by train crews. Th e W10-2, W10-3, and W10-4 signs (see MUTCD Figure 5F-1) may be used on low-volume roads that run parallel to railroad tracks to warn road users making a turn that they will encounter a highway-rail grade crossing soon after making the turn.

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highway if the distance from the edge of the track to the edge of the parallel roadway is less than 100 feet and W10-3 signs are used on both approaches of the parallel highway;B. On low-volume, low-speed highways crossing minor spurs • or other tracks that are infrequently used and road users are directed by an authorized person on the ground to not enter the crossing at all times that approaching rail traffi c is about to occupy the crossing;C. In business or commercial areas where active grade crossing • traffi c control devices are in use; orD. Where physical conditions do not permit even a partially • eff ective display of the sign.

Th e placement of the Grade Crossing Advance Warning sign shall be in accordance with MUTCD Section 2C.05 and MUTCD Table 2C-4. A Yield Ahead (W3-2) or Stop Ahead (W3-1) Advance Warning sign (see MUTCD Figure 2C-6) shall also be installed if the criteria for their installation given in MUTCD Section 2C.36 is met. If a Yield Ahead or Stop Ahead sign is installed on the approach to the crossing, the W10-1 sign shall be installed upstream from the Yield Ahead or Stop Ahead sign. Th e Yield Ahead or Stop Ahead sign shall be located in accordance with MUTCD Table 2C-4. Th e minimum distance between the signs shall be in accordance with MUTCD Section 2C.05 and MUTCD Table 2C-4.

Option: On divided highways and one-way streets, an additional W10-1 sign may be installed on the left-hand side of the roadway.

Standard: If the distance between the tracks and a parallel highway, from the edge of the tracks to the edge of the parallel roadway, is less than 100 feet, W10-2, W10-3, or W10-4 signs (see

MUTCD Figure 8B-4) shall be installed on each approach of the

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Crossbuck sign for the opposite approach, or otherwise located so that two Crossbuck signs are displayed for that approach. A strip of retrorefl ective white material not less than 2 inches in width shall be used on the back of each blade of each Crossbuck sign for the length of each blade, at all grade crossings where Crossbuck signs have been installed, except those where Crossbuck signs have been installed back-to-back.

Guidance: Crossbuck signs should be located with respect to the highway pavement or shoulder in accordance with the criteria in MUTCD chapter 2A and MUTCD Figures 2A-2 and 2A-3, and should be located with respect to the nearest track in accordance with MUTCD Figure 8C-2. Th e minimum lateral off set for the nearest edge of the Crossbuck sign should be 6 feet from the edge of the shoulder or 12 feet from the edge of the traveled way in rural areas (whichever is greater), and 2 feet from the face of the curb in urban areas. Where unusual conditions make variations in location and lateral off set appropriate, engineering judgment should be used to provide the best practical combination of view and safety clearances.

Grade Crossing (Crossbuck) Sign and Number of Tracks Plaque (R15-1, R15-2P) on Low Volume Roads

Support: In most States, the Grade Crossing (Crossbuck) (R15-1) sign (see MUTCD Figure 5F-1) requires road users to yield the right-of-way to rail traffi c at a highway-rail grade crossing.

Standard: Th e Crossbuck (R15-1) sign shall be used at all highway-rail grade crossings, except as otherwise provided in MUTCD Section 8B.03. For all low-volume roads, Crossbuck signs shall be used on the right-hand side of each approach. If there are two or more tracks, the supplemental Number of Tracks (R15-2P) plaque (see MUTCD Figure 5F-1) shall display the number of tracks and shall be installed below the Crossbuck

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Grade Crossing (Crossbuck) Sign (R15-1) and Number of Tracks Plaque (R15-2P) at Active and Passive Grade Crossings

Standard: Th e Grade Crossing (R15-1) sign (see MUTCD Figure 8B-1), commonly identifi ed as the Crossbuck sign, shall be retrorefl ectorized white with the words RAILROAD CROSSING in black lettering, mounted as shown in MUTCD Figure 8B-2.

Support: In most States, the Crossbuck sign requires road users to yield the right-of-way to rail traffi c at a grade crossing.

Standard: As a minimum, one Crossbuck sign shall be used on each highway approach to every highway-rail grade crossing, alone or in combination with other traffi c control devices.

Option: A Crossbuck sign may be used on a highway approach to a highway-LRT grade crossing on a semi-exclusive or mixed-use alignment, alone or in combination with other traffi c control devices.

Standard: If automatic gates are not present and if there are two or more tracks at a grade crossing, the number of tracks shall be indicated on a supplemental Number of Tracks (R15-2P) plaque (see MUTCD Figure 8B-1) of inverted T shape mounted below the Crossbuck sign in the manner shown in MUTCD Figure 8B-2. n each approach to a highway-rail grade crossing and, if used, on each approach to a highway-LRT grade crossing, the Crossbuck sign shall be installed on the right-hand side of the highway on each approach to the grade crossing. Where restricted sight distance or unfavorable highway geometry exists on an approach to a grade crossing, an additional Crossbuck sign shall be installed on the left-hand side of the highway, possibly placed back-to-back with the

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CHAPTER 5

ROADWAY RESTRICTIONS

Introduction

Highway agencies have to restrict roadway usage due to roadway conditions. Restrictions occur at intersections and in the roadway between them. Signs restricting motorists at and approaching intersections are described in Part 2 of the MUTCD and Chapter 1 of this Handbook. Th is chapter describes sign that inform motorists of restriction between intersections. Th e most common roadway restrictions are for vehicle speed, passing, parking, and standing or stopping. Agencies inform motorists of these restrictions with regulatory signs. Other restrictions are unexpected obstacles that may impede, or prevent the use of a section of roadway. Agencies inform or warn motorists of these restrictions with warning signs. Warning signs may be temporary, such as the ROAD FLOODED sign, or a permanent installation, such as HILL signs and DEAD END signs. Warning signs for temporary conditions are often maintenance or construction situations. Th ey have an orange background. Th ey should be promptly removed when the condition that required their use no longer exists. Th is encourages the motorist to pay strict attention to orange background warning signs. Left installed after the condition no longer exists tells drivers to expect a hazard that is not there.

Speed Limit Sign (R2-1)Standard: Speed zones (other than statutory speed limits) shall only be established on the basis of an engineering study that has been performed in accordance with traffi c engineering practices. Th e engineering study shall include an analysis of the current speed distribution of free-fl owing vehicles.

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sign. A strip of retrorefl ective white material not less than 2 inches in width shall be used on the back of each blade of each Crossbuck sign for the length of each blade, at all highway-rail grade crossings, except those where Crossbuck signs have been installed back-to-back. A vertical strip of retrorefl ective white material, not less than 2 inches in width, shall be used on each support at passive highway-rail grade crossings for the full length of the front and back of the support from the Crossbuck sign or Number of Tracks plaque to within 2 feet above the ground, except on the side of those supports where a STOP (R1-1) or YIELD (R1-2) sign or fl ashing lights have been installed or on the back side of supports for Crossbuck signs installed on one-way streets.

Other Traffi c Control Devices on Low Volume Roads

Standard: Other traffi c control devices that are used at highway-rail grade crossings on low-volume roads, such as other signs, signals, and illumination that are not in this Chapter, shall comply with the provisions contained in MUTCD Part 8 and other applicable Parts of the MUTCD and this Handbook.

STOP and YIELD Signs (R1-1, R1-2) on Low Volume Roads

Standard: Th e use and application at passive highway-rail grade crossings on low-volume roads of Crossbuck Assemblies with YIELD (R1-2) signs or STOP (R1-1) signs shall comply with the provisions of MUTCD Section 8B.04. At all highway-rail grade crossings where YIELD or STOP signs are installed, Yield Ahead (W3-2) or Stop Ahead (W3-1) signs shall also be installed if the criteria for their installation in MUTCD Section 2C.36 is met.

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NEIGHBORHOOD (R2-5bP), or RESIDENTIAL (R2-5cP) plaque may be mounted above the Speed Limit sign and an UNLESS OTHERWISE POSTED (R2-5P) plaque may be mounted below the Speed Limit sign (see MUTCD Figure 2B-3).

Note: NHDOT does not allow such signs along state highways.

Guidance: A Reduced Speed Limit Ahead (W3-5 or W3-5a) sign (see MUTCD Section 2C.38) should be used to inform road users of a reduced speed zone where the speed limit is being reduced by more than 10 mph, or where engineering judgment indicates the need for advance notice to comply with the posted speed limit ahead. States and local agencies should conduct engineering studies to reevaluate non-statutory speed limits on segments of their roadways that have undergone signifi cant changes since the last review, such as the addition or elimination of parking or driveways, changes in the number of travel lanes, changes in the confi guration of bicycle lanes, changes in traffi c control signal coordination, or signifi cant changes in traffi c volumes. When a speed limit within a speed zone is posted, it should be within 5 mph of the 85th-percentile speed of free-fl owing traffi c. Speed studies for signalized intersection approaches should be taken outside the infl uence area of the traffi c control signal, which is generally considered to be approximately 1/2 mile, to avoid obtaining skewed results for the 85th-percentile speed.

Support: Advance warning signs and other traffi c control devices to attract the motorist’s attention to a signalized intersection are usually more eff ective than a reduced speed limit zone.

Guidance: An advisory speed plaque (see MUTCD Section 2C.08) mounted below a warning sign should be used to warn road users of an advisory speed for a roadway condition. A Speed Limit sign should not be used for this situation.

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Th e Speed Limit (R2-1) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2B-3) shall display the limit established by law, ordinance, regulation, or as adopted by the authorized agency based on the engineering study. Th e speed limits displayed shall be in multiples of 5 mph.

Speed Limit (R2-1) signs, indicating speed limits for which posting is required by law, shall be located at the points of change from one speed limit to another. At the downstream end of the section to which a speed limit applies, a Speed Limit sign showing the next speed limit shall be installed. Additional Speed Limit signs shall be installed beyond major intersections and at other locations

where it is necessary to remind road users of the speed limit that is applicable. Speed Limit signs indicating the statutory speed limits shall be installed at entrances to the State and, where appropriate, at jurisdictional boundaries in urban areas.

Support: In general, the maximum speed limits applicable to rural and urban roads are established:

A. Statutorily – a maximum speed limit applicable to a particular • class of road, such as freeways or city streets, that is established by State law (RSA 265:60 Basic Speed Law); orB. As altered speed zones – based on engineering studies.• State statutory limits might restrict the maximum speed limit • that can be established on a particular road, notwithstanding what an engineering study might indicate.

Option: If a jurisdiction has a policy of installing Speed Limit signs in accordance with statutory requirements only on the streets that enter a city, neighborhood, or residential area to indicate the speed limit that is applicable to the entire city, neighborhood, or residential area unless otherwise posted, a CITYWIDE (R2-5aP),

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Speed Limit Signs (R2 Series) on Low Volume Roads

Standard: If used, Speed Limit (R2 series) signs (see MUTCD Figure 5B-1) shall display the speed limit established by law, ordinance, regulation, or as adopted by the authorized agency following an engineering study.Th e displayed speed limits shall be in multiples of 5 mph. Speed limits shall be established in accordance with MUTCD Section 2B.13.

Option: Speed limit signs may be used on low-volume roads that carry traffi c from, onto, or adjacent to higher-volume roads that have posted speed limits.

Do Not Pass Sign (R4-1)

Option: Th e Do Not Pass (R4-1) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2B-10) may be used in addition to pavement markings (see MUTCD Section 3B.02) to emphasize the restriction on passing. Th e Do Not

Pass sign may be used at the beginning of, and at intervals within, a zone through which sight distance is restricted or where other conditions make overtaking and passing inappropriate. If signing is needed on the left-hand side of the roadway for additional emphasis, NO PASSING ZONE (W14-3) signs may be used (see MUTCD Section 2C.45).

Support: Standards for determining the location and extent of no-passing zone pavement markings are set forth in MUTCD Section 3B.02.

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Option: Other factors that may be considered when establishing or reevaluating speed limits are the following:

A. Road characteristics, shoulder condition, grade, alignment, • and sight distance;B. Th e pace;• C. Roadside development and environment;• D. Parking practices and pedestrian activity; and• E. Reported crash experience for at least a 12-month period.•

A changeable message sign that changes the speed limit for traffi c and ambient conditions may be installed provided that the appropriate speed limit is displayed at the proper times. A changeable message sign that displays to approaching drivers the speed at which they are traveling may be installed in conjunction with a Speed Limit sign.

Guidance: If a changeable message sign displaying approach speeds is installed, the legend YOUR SPEED XX MPH or such similar legend should be displayed. Th e color of the changeable message legend should be a yellow legend on a black background or the reverse of these colors.

Support: Advisory Speed signs and plaques are discussed in MUTCD Sections 2C.08 and 2C.14. Temporary Traffi c Control Zone Speed signs are discussed in MUTCD Part 6. Th e WORK ZONE (G20-5aP) plaque intended for installation above a Speed Limit sign is discussed in MUTCD Section 6F.12. School Speed Limit signs are discussed in MUTCD Section 7B.15.

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Guidance: At locations where it is not readily apparent that traffi c is required to keep to the right, a Keep Right sign should be used. If used, the Keep Right sign should be installed as close as practical to approach ends of raised medians, parkways, islands, and underpass piers. Th e sign should be mounted on the face of or just in front of a pier or other obstruction separating opposite directions of traffi c in the center of the highway such that traffi c will have to pass to the right-hand side of the sign.

Standard: Th e Keep Right sign shall not be installed on the right-hand side of the roadway in a position where traffi c must pass to the left-hand side of the sign.

Option: Th e Keep Right sign may be omitted at intermediate ends of divisional islands and medians. Word message KEEP RIGHT (LEFT) with an arrow (R4-7a or R4-7b) signs (see MUTCD Figure 2B-10) may be used instead of the R4-7 or R4-8 symbol signs. Where the obstruction obscures the Keep Right sign, the minimum placement height may be increased for better sign visibility. A narrow Keep Right (R4-7c) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2B-10) may be installed on the approach end of a median island that is less than 4 feet wide at the point where the sign is to be located.

Standard: A narrow Keep Right (R4-7c) sign shall not be installed on a median island that has a width of 4 feet or more at the point where the sign is to be located.

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PASS WITH CARE Sign (R4-2)

Guidance: Th e PASS WITH CARE (R4-2) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2B-10) should be installed at the downstream end of a no-passing zone if a Do Not Pass sign has been installed at the upstream end of the zone.

NO PASSING ZONE Sign (W14-3)

Standard: Th e NO PASSING ZONE (W14-3) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2C-8) shall be a pennant-shaped isosceles triangle with its longer axis horizontal and pointing to the right. When used, the NO PASSING ZONE sign shall be installed on the left side of the roadway at the beginning of no-passing zones identifi ed by pavement markings or DO NOT PASS signs or both (see MUTCD Sections 2B.28 and 3B.02).

Note: Markings establish regulations in all cases, DO NOT PASS alone has no force of law.Note: NHDOT Standard is to use Type IV sheeting or better for all signs.

Keep Right and Keep Left Signs (R4-7, R4-8)

Option: Th e Keep Right (R4-7) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2B-10) may be used at locations where it is necessary for traffi c to pass only to the right-hand side of a roadway feature or obstruction. Th e Keep Left (R4-8) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2B-10) may be used at locations where it is necessary for traffi c to pass only to the left-hand side of a roadway feature or obstruction.

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Guidance: If an exclusion is governed by vehicle weight, a Weight Limit sign (see MUTCD Section 2B.59) should be used instead of a Selective Exclusion sign. If used on a freeway or expressway ramp, the NO PEDESTRIANS OR BICYCLES (R5-10b) sign should be installed in a location where it is clearly visible to any pedestrian or bicyclist attempting to enter the limited access facility from a street intersecting the exit ramp. Th e Selective Exclusion sign should be placed on the right-hand side of the roadway at an appropriate distance from the intersection so as to be clearly visible to all road users turning into the roadway that has the exclusion. Th e NO PEDESTRIANS (R5-10c) or No Pedestrian Crossing (R9-3) sign (see MUTCD Section 2B.51) should be installed so as to be clearly visible to pedestrians who are at a location where an alternative route is available.

Option: Th e NO PEDESTRIANS (R5-10c) or No Pedestrian Crossing (R9-3) sign may also be used at underpasses or elsewhere where pedestrian facilities are not provided.

Th e NO TRUCKS (R5-2a) word message sign may be used as an alternate to the No Trucks (R5-2) symbol sign.

Note: Trucks may not be excluded from facilities maintained with highway funds unless there are geometric/weight restrictions.

Th e AUTHORIZED VEHICLES ONLY (R5-11) sign may be used at median openings and other locations to prohibit vehicles from using the median opening or facility unless they have special permission (such as law enforcement vehicles or emergency vehicles) or are performing offi cial business (such as highway agency vehicles).

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Selective Exclusion Signs

Support: Selective Exclusion signs (see MUTCD Figure 2B-11) give notice to road users that State or local statutes or ordinances exclude designated types of traffi c from using particular roadways or facilities.

Standard: If used, Selective Exclusion signs shall clearly indicate the type of traffi c that is excluded.

Support: Typical exclusion messages include:

A. No Trucks (R5-2),• B. NO MOTOR VEHICLES (R5-3),• C. NO COMMERCIAL VEHICLES •

(R5-4),D. NO TRUCKS (VEHICLES) WITH •

LUGS (R5-5),E. No Bicycles (R5-6),• F. NO NON-MOTORIZED TRAFFIC •

(R5-7),G. NO MOTOR-DRIVEN CYCLES •

(R5-8),H. No Pedestrians (R9-3),• I. No Skaters (R9-13),• J. No Equestrians (R9-14), and• K. No Hazardous Material (R14-3) (see MUTCD Section • 2B.62).

Option: Appropriate combinations or groupings of these legends into a single sign, such as NO PEDESTRIANS BICYCLES MOTOR-DRIVEN CYCLES (R5-10a), or NO PEDESTRIANS OR BICYCLES (R5-10b) may be used.

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Parking, Standing, and Stopping Signs (R7 and R8 Series)

Support: Signs governing the parking, stopping, and standing of vehicles cover a wide variety of regulations, and only general guidance can be provided here. Th e word “standing” when used on the R7 and R8 series of signs refers to the practice of a driver keeping the vehicle in a stationary position while continuing to occupy the vehicle. Typical examples of parking, stopping, and standing signs and plaques (see MUTCD Figures 2B-24 and 2B-25) are as follows:

1. NO PARKING ANY TIME (R7-1);2. NO PARKING X:XX AM TO X:XX PM (R7-2, R7-2a);3. NO PARKING EXCEPT SUNDAYS AND HOLIDAYS (R7-3);4. NO STANDING ANY TIME (R7-4);5. XX HOUR PARKING X:XX AM – X:XX PM (R7-5);6. NO PARKING LOADING ZONE (R7-6);7. NO PARKING BUS STOP (R7-7, R7-107,

R7-107a);8. RESERVED PARKING for persons with disabilities (R7-8);9. VAN ACCESSIBLE (R7-8P);10. Pay Station (R7-20);11. Pay Parking (R7-21, R7-21a, R7-22);12. Parking Permitted X:XX AM TO X:XX PM (R7-23);13. Parking Permitted XX HOUR(S) XX AM – XX PM (R7-23a);14. XX HR PARKING X:XX AM TO X:XX PM (R7-108);15. NO PARKING ANYTIME/XX HOUR PARKING X:XX AM – X:XX PM (R7-200, R7-200a);16. TOW-AWAY ZONE (R7-201P, R7-201aP);17. THIS SIDE OF SIGN (R7-202P);18. EMERGENCY SNOW ROUTE NO PARKING IF OVER XX INCHES (R7-203);19. NO PARKING ON PAVEMENT (R8-1);20. NO PARKING EXCEPT ON SHOULDER (R8-2);21. No Parking (R8-3, R8-3a);

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TRUCK ROUTE Sign (R14-1)\

Guidance: Th e TRUCK ROUTE (R14-1) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2B-30) should be used to mark a route that has been designated to allow truck

traffi c.

Option: On a numbered highway, the TRUCK (M4-4) auxiliary sign may be used (see MUTCD Section 2D.20).

Traffi c Movement and Prohibition Signs (R3, R4, R5, R6, R9, R10, R11, R12, R13, and R14 Series) on Low Volume Roads

Support: Th e regulatory signs (see MUTCD Figure 5B-1) in these series inform road users of required, permitted, or prohibited traffi c movements involving turn, alignment, exclusion, and pedestrians.

Standard: If used, signs for traffi c prohibitions or restrictions shall be placed in advance of the prohibition or restriction so that traffi c can use an alternate route or turn around.

Guidance: Signs should be used on low-volume roads to indicate traffi c prohibitions and restrictions such as road closures and weight restrictions.

Option: Signs for traffi c prohibitions or restrictions may be used on a low-volume road near and at the intersections or the connections with a higher class of road, and where the regulatory message is essential for transition from the low-volume road to the higher-class facility or vice versa.

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Th e Hill sign and supplemental grade (W7-3P) plaque (see MUTCD Section 2C.57) used in combination, or the W7-1a sign used alone, should be installed in advance of downgrades for the following conditions:

A. 5% grade that is more than 3,000 feet in length,• B. 6% grade that is more than 2,000 feet in length,• C. 7% grade that is more than 1,000 feet in length,• D. 8% grade that is more than 750 feet in length, or• E. 9% grade that is more than 500 feet in length.•

Th ese signs should also be installed for steeper grades or where crash experience and fi eld observations indicate a need. Supplemental plaques (see MUTCD Section 2C.57) and larger signs should be used for emphasis or where special hill characteristics exist. On longer grades, the use of the Hill sign with a distance (W7-3aP) plaque or the combination distance/grade (W7-3bP) plaque at periodic intervals of approximately 1-mile spacing should be considered.

Standard: If the percent grade is displayed on a supplemental plaque, the plaque shall be placed below the Hill (W7-1) sign.

Option: A USE LOW GEAR (W7-2P) or TRUCKS USE LOWER GEAR (W7-2bP) supplemental plaque (see MUTCD Figure 2C-4) may be used to indicate a situation where downshifting as well as braking might be advisable.

Hill Sign (W7-1) on Low Volume Roads

Option: An engineering study of vehicles and road characteristics, such as percent grade and length of grade, may be conducted to determine hill signing requirements.

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22. EXCEPT SUNDAYS AND HOLIDAYS (R8-3bP);23. ON PAVEMENT (R8-3cP);24. ON BRIDGE (R8-3dP);25. ON TRACKS (R8-3eP);26. EXCEPT ON SHOULDER (R8-3fP);27. LOADING ZONE (R8-3gP);

28. X:XX AM TO X:XX PM (R8-3hP);29. EMERGENCY PARKING ONLY (R8-4);30. NO STOPPING ON PAVEMENT (R8-5);31. NO STOPPING EXCEPT ON SHOULDER (R8-6); and32. EMERGENCY STOPPING ONLY (R8-7).

Design of Parking, Standing, and Stopping Signs

Support: Discussions of parking signs and parking regulations in this Section apply not only to parking, but also to standing and stopping.

Standard: Th e legend on parking signs shall state applicable regulations. Parking signs (see MUTCD Figures 2B-24 and 2B-25) shall comply with the standards of shape, color, and location.

Hill Signs (W7-1, W7-1a)

Guidance: Th e Hill (W7-1) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2C-4) should be used in advance of a downgrade where the length,

percent of grade, horizontal curvature, and/or other physical features require special precautions on the part of road users.

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PAVEMENT ENDS Sign (W8-3) on Low Volume Roads

Option: A PAVEMENT ENDS (W8-3) sign (see MUTCD Figure 5C-2) may be used to warn road users where a paved surface changes to a gravel or earth road surface.DEAD END/NO OUTLET Signs (W14-1, W14-1a, W14-2, W14-2a)

Option: Th e DEAD END (W14-1) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2C-5) may be used at the entrance of a single road or street that terminates in a dead end or cul-de-sac. Th e NO OUTLET (W14-2) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2C-5) may be used at the entrance to a road or road network from which there is no other exit. DEAD END (W14-1a) or NO OUTLET (W14-2a) signs (see MUTCD Figure 2C-5) may be used in combination with Street Name (D3-1) signs (see MUTCD Section 2D.43) to warn turning traffi c that the cross street ends in the direction indicated by the arrow. At locations where the cross street does not have a name, the W14-1a or W14-2a signs may be used alone in place of a street name sign.

Standard: Th e DEAD END (W14-1a) and NO OUTLET (W14-2a) signs shall be horizontal rectangles with an arrow pointing to the left or right. When the W14-1 or W14-2 sign is used, the sign shall be posted as near as practical to the entry point or at a suffi cient advance distance to permit the road user to avoid the dead end or no outlet condition by turning at the nearest intersecting street. Th e DEAD END (W14-1a) or NO OUTLET (W14-2a) signs shall not be used instead of the W14-1 or W14-2 signs where traffi c can proceed straight through the intersection into the dead end street or no outlet area.

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BUMP and DIP Signs (W8-1, W8-2)

Guidance: BUMP (W8-1) and DIP (W8-2) signs (see MUTCD Figure 2C-6) should be used to give warning of a sharp rise or depression in the profi le of the road.

Option: Th ese signs may be supplemented with an Advisory Speed plaque (see MUTCD Section 2C.08).

Standard: Th e DIP sign shall not be used

at a short stretch of depressed alignment that might momentarily hide a vehicle.

Guidance: A short stretch of depressed alignment that might momentarily hide a vehicle should be treated as a no-passing zone when center line striping is provided on a two-lane or three-lane road (see MUTCD Section 3B.02).

PAVEMENT ENDS Sign (W8-3)

Guidance: A PAVEMENT ENDS (W8-3) word message sign (see MUTCD Figure 2C-6) should be used where a paved surface changes to either a gravel treated surface or an earth road surface.

Option: An Advisory Speed plaque (see MUTCD Section 2C.08) may be used when the change in roadway condition requires a reduced speed.

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MUTCD Figure 2C-6) may be used in advance of bridges to advise bridge users of winter weather conditions. Th e BRIDGE ICES BEFORE ROAD sign may be removed or covered during seasons of the year when its message is not relevant. Th e FALLEN ROCKS (W8-14) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2C-6) may be used in advance of an area that is adjacent to a hillside, mountain, or cliff where rocks frequently fall onto the roadway.

Guidance: When used, Surface Condition signs should be placed in advance of the beginning of the aff ected section (see MUTCD Table 2C-4), and additional signs should be placed at appropriate intervals along the road where the condition exists.

Double Arrow Sign (W12-1)

Option: Th e Double Arrow (W12-1) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2C-5) may be used to advise road users that traffi c is permitted to pass on either side of an island, obstruction, or gore in the roadway. Traffi c separated by this sign may either rejoin or change directions.

Guidance: If used on an island, the Double Arrow sign should be mounted near the approach end. If used in front of a pier or obstruction, the Double Arrow sign should be mounted on the face of, or just in front of, the obstruction. Where stripe markings are used on the obstruction, they should be discontinued to leave a 3-inch space around the outside of the sign.

Object Marker Design and Placement Height

Support: Type 1, 2, and 3 object markers are used to mark obstructions within or adjacent to the roadway. Type 4 object markers are used to mark the end of a roadway.

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Motorized Traffi c Signs (W8-6, W11-10)

Option: Motorized Traffi c (W8-6, W11-10) signs may be used to alert road users to locations where unexpected travel on the roadway or entries into or departures from the roadway by construction vehicles might

occur. Th e TRUCK CROSSING (W8-6) word message sign may be used as an alternate to the Truck Crossing (W11-10) symbol sign (see MUTCD Figure 6F-4) where there is an established construction vehicle crossing of the roadway.

Support: Th ese locations might be relatively confi ned or might occur randomly over a segment of roadway.

Surface Condition Signs (W8-5, W8-7, W8-8, W8-11, W8-13, and W8-14)

Option: Th e Slippery When Wet (W8-5) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2C-6) may be used to warn of unexpected slippery conditions. Supplemental plaques with legends such as ICE, WHEN WET, STEEL DECK, or EXCESS OIL may be used with the W8-5 sign to indicate the reason that the slippery conditions might be present. Th e LOOSE GRAVEL (W8-7) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2C-6) may be used to warn of loose gravel on the roadway surface. Th e ROUGH ROAD (W8-8) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2C-6) may be used to warn of a rough roadway surface. An UNEVEN LANES (W8-11) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2C-6) may be used to warn of a diff erence in elevation between travel lanes. Th e BRIDGE ICES BEFORE ROAD (W8-13) sign (see

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obstructions that are 8 feet or less from the shoulder or curb, the minimum mounting height, measured from the ground to the bottom of the object marker shall be 4 feet. When used to mark obstructions more than 8 feet from the shoulder or curb, the clearance from the ground to the bottom of the object marker should be at least 4 feet. Object markers should not present a vertical or horizontal clearance obstacle for pedestrians.

Option: When object markers or markings are applied to an obstruction that by its nature requires a lower or higher mounting, the vertical mounting height may vary according to need.

Support: MUTCD Section 9B.26 contains information regarding the use of object markers on shared-use paths.

Note: NHDOT Standard is to use Type III sheeting (Hi-Intensity “honeycomb sheeting”).

Object Markers for Obstructions Within the Roadway

Standard: Obstructions within the roadway shall be marked with a Type 1 or Type 3 object marker. In addition to markers on the face of the obstruction, warning of approach to the obstruction shall be given by appropriate pavement markings (see MUTCD Section 3B.10).

Option: To provide additional emphasis, a Type 1 or Type 3 object marker may be installed at or near the approach end of a median island.To provide additional emphasis, large surfaces such as bridge piers may be painted with diagonal stripes, 12 inches or greater in width, similar in design to the Type 3 object marker.

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Standard: When used, object markers (see MUTCD Figure 2C-13) shall not have a border and shall consist of an arrangement of one or more of the following types:Type 1—a diamond-shaped sign, at least 18 inches on a side, consisting of either a yellow (OM1-1) or black (OM1-2) sign with nine yellow retrorefl ective devices, each with a minimum diameter of 3 inches, mounted symmetrically on the sign, or an all-yellow retrorefl ective sign (OM1-3).Type 2—either a marker (OM2-1V or OM2-1H) consisting of three yellow retrorefl ective devices, each with a minimum diameter of 3 inches, arranged either horizontally or vertically on a white sign measuring at least 6 x 12 inches; or an all-yellow horizontal or vertical retrorefl ective sign (OM2-2V or OM2-2H), measuring at least 6 x 12 inches.Type 3—a striped marker, 12 x 36 inches, consisting of a vertical rectangle with alternating black and retrorefl ective yellow stripes sloping downward at an angle of 45 degrees toward the side of the obstruction on which traffi c is to pass. Th e minimum width of the yellow and black stripes shall be 3 inches.Type 4—a diamond-shaped sign, at least 18 inches on a side, consisting of either a red (OM4-1) or black (OM4-2) sign with nine red retrorefl ective devices, each with a minimum diameter of 3 inches, mounted symmetrically on the sign, or an all-red retrorefl ective sign (OM4-3).

Support: A better appearance can be achieved if the black stripes are wider than the yellow stripes. Type 3 object markers with stripes that begin at the upper right side and slope downward to the lower left side are designated as right object markers (OM3-R). Object markers with stripes that begin at the upper left side and slope downward to the lower right side are designated as left object markers (OM3-L).

Guidance: When used for marking obstructions within the roadway or

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Guidance: Appropriate advance warning signs in this Chapter should be used.

NO TRAFFIC SIGNS Sign (W18-1) on Low Volume Roads

Option: A W18-1 warning sign (see MUTCD Figure 5C-2) with the legend NO TRAFFIC SIGNS may be used only on unpaved, low-volume roads to advise users that no signs are installed along the distance of the road. If used, the sign may be installed at the point where road users would enter the low-volume road or where, based on engineering judgment, the road user might need this information.A W7-3aP, W16-2P, or W16-9P supplemental plaque (see MUTCD Figure 5C-2) with the legend NEXT XX MILES, XX FEET, or AHEAD may be installed below the W18-1 sign when appropriate.

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Standard: Th e alternating black and retrorefl ective yellow stripes (OM3-L, OM3-R) shall be sloped down at an angle of 45 degrees toward the side on which traffi c is to pass the obstruction. If traffi c can pass to either side of the obstruction, the alternating black and retrorefl ective yellow stripes (OM3-C) shall form chevrons that point upwards.

Option: Appropriate signs (see MUTCD Sections 2B.32 and 2C.25) directing traffi c to one or both sides of the obstruction may be used instead of the object marker.

Object Markers for Ends of Roadways

Support: Th e Type 4 object marker is used to warn and alert road users of the end of a roadway in other than construction or maintenance areas.

Standard: If an object marker is used to mark the end of a roadway, a Type 4 object marker shall be used.

Option: Th e Type 4 object marker may be used in instances where there are no alternate vehicular paths. Where conditions warrant, more than one marker, or a larger marker with or without a Type 3 Barricade (see MUTCD Section 2B.67), may be used at the end of the roadway.

Standard: Th e minimum mounting height, measured vertically from the bottom of a Type 4 object marker to the elevation of the near edge of the traveled way, shall be 4 feet.

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CHAPTER 6SCHOOLS AND CHILDREN

Introduction

Traffi c accidents resulting in the injury or death of pedestrians are critical problems confronting managers. Emotion and public indignation are greatest when the pedestrians are school age children. Parents and civic leaders are persistent in their demands for more and better applications of signs, markings, signals, and crossing protection in and around school areas and other locations that attract children. According to national statistics, pedestrians under 15 years of age experience twice as many accidents as any other age group. Moreover, pedestrian accidents are generally severe. Young pedestrians are more vulnerable than mature pedestrians because they lack experience and judgment in traffi c situations. Added to this is a lack of perception and reading skills that can be expected of adults.

Need for Standards

Support: Regardless of the school location, the best way to achieve eff ective traffi c control is through the uniform application of realistic policies, practices, and standards developed through engineering judgment or studies. Pedestrian safety depends upon public understanding of accepted methods for effi cient traffi c control. Th is principle is especially important in the control of pedestrians, bicycles, and other vehicles in the vicinity of schools. Neither pedestrians on their way to or from school nor other road users can be expected to move safely in school areas unless they understand both the need for traffi c controls and how these controls function for their benefi t. Procedures and devices that are not uniform might cause confusion among pedestrians and other road users, prompt wrong

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“School” and “school zone” are defi ned in MUTCD Section 1A.13.

School Routes and Established School Crossings

Support: To establish a safer route to and from school for schoolchildren, the application of planning criterion for school walk routes might make it necessary for children to walk an indirect route to an established school crossing located where there is existing traffi c control and to avoid the use of a direct crossing where there is no existing traffi c control.

Guidance: School walk routes should be planned to take advantage of existing traffi c controls. Th e following factors should be considered when determining the feasibility of requiring children to walk a longer distance to a crossing with existing traffi c control:

A. Th e availability of adequate sidewalks or other pedestrian • walkways to and from the location with existing control,B. Th e number of students using the crossing,• C. Th e age levels of the students using the crossing, and• D. Th e total extra walking distance.•

School Crossing Control Criteria

Support: Th e frequency of gaps in the traffi c stream that are suffi cient for student crossing is diff erent at each crossing location. When the delay between the occurrences of adequate gaps becomes excessive, students might become impatient and endanger themselves by attempting to cross the street during an inadequate gap. In these instances, the creation of suffi cient gaps needs to be considered to accommodate the crossing demand. A recommended method for determining the frequency and

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decisions, and contribute to crashes. To achieve uniformity of traffi c control in school areas, comparable traffi c situations need to be treated in a consistent manner. Each traffi c control device and control method described in MUTCD Part 7 fulfi lls a specifi c function related to specifi c traffi c conditions. A uniform approach to school area traffi c controls assures the use of similar controls for similar situations, which promotes appropriate and uniform behavior on the part of motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists. A school traffi c control plan permits the orderly review of school area traffi c control needs, and the coordination of school/pedestrian safety education and engineering measures. Engineering measures alone do not always result in the intended change in student and road user behavior.

Guidance: A school route plan for each school serving elementary to high school students should be prepared in order to develop uniformity in the use of school area traffi c controls and to serve as the basis for a school traffi c control plan for each school. Th e school route plan, developed in a systematic manner by the school, law enforcement, and traffi c offi cials responsible for school pedestrian safety, should consist of a map (see MUTCD Figure 7A-1) showing streets, the school, existing traffi c controls, established school walk routes, and established school crossings. Th e type(s) of school area traffi c control devices used, either warning or regulatory, should be related to the volume and speed of vehicular traffi c, street width, and the number and age of the students using the crossing. School area traffi c control devices should be included in a school traffi c control plan.

Support: Reduced speed limit signs for school areas and crossings are included in the MUTCD and this Handbook solely for the purpose of standardizing signing for these zones and not as an endorsement of mandatory reduced speed zones.

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Th e sizes in the Conventional Road column shall be used unless engineering judgment determines that a minimum or oversized sign size would be more appropriate. Th e sizes in the Minimum column shall be used only where traffi c volumes are low and speeds are 30 mph or lower, as determined by engineering judgment. Th e sizes in the Oversized column shall be used on expressways.

Guidance: Th e sizes in the Oversized column should be used on roadways that have four or more lanes with posted speed limits of 40 mph or higher.

Option: Th e sizes in the Oversized column may also be used at other locations that require increased emphasis, improved recognition, or increased legibility. Signs and plaques larger than those shown in MUTCD Table 7B-1 may be used (see MUTCD Section 2A.11).

Illumination and Refl ectorization

Standard: Th e signs used for school area traffi c control shall be retrorefl ectorized or illuminated.

Position of Signs

Support: MUTCD Sections 2A.16 and 2A.17 contain provisions regarding the placements and locations of signs. MUTCD Section 2A.19 contains provisions regarding the lateral off sets of signs.

Option: In-roadway signs for school traffi c control areas may be used

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adequacy of gaps in the traffi c stream is given in the “Traffi c Control Devices Handbook” (see MUTCD Section 1A.11).

Scope

Standard: MUTCD Part 7 sets forth basic principles and prescribes standards that shall be followed in the design, application, installation, and maintenance of all traffi c control devices (including signs, signals, and markings) and other controls (including adult crossing guards) required for the special pedestrian conditions in school areas.

Support: MUTCD Sections 1A.01 and 1A.08 contain information regarding unauthorized devices and messages. MUTCD Sections 1A.02 and 1A.07 contain information regarding the application of standards. MUTCD Section 1A.05 contains information regarding the maintenance of traffi c control devices. MUTCD Section 1A.08 contains information regarding placement authority for traffi c control devices. MUTCD Section 1A.09 contains information regarding engineering studies and the assistance that is available to jurisdictions that do not have engineers on their staff s who are trained and/or experienced in traffi c control devices. Provisions contained in MUTCD chapter 2A and MUTCD Section 2B.06 are applicable in school areas. MUTCD Part 3 contains provisions regarding pavement markings that are applicable in school areas. MUTCD Part 4 contains provisions regarding highway traffi c signals that are applicable in school areas. Th e School Crossing signal warrant is described in MUTCD Section 4C.06.

Size of School Signs

Standard: Except as provided in MUTCD Section 2A.11, the sizes of signs and plaques to be used on conventional roadways in school areas shall be as shown in MUTCD Table 7B-1.

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a School Speed Limit (S5-1) sign (see MUTCD Figure 7B-1) shall be used to indicate the speed limit where a reduced school speed limit zone has been established based upon an engineering study or where a reduced school speed limit is specifi ed for such areas by statute. Th e School Speed Limit assembly or School Speed Limit sign shall be placed at or as near as practical to the point where the reduced school speed limit zone begins (see MUTCD Figures 7B-3 and 7B-5).

If a reduced school speed limit zone has been established, a School (S1-1) sign shall be installed in advance (see MUTCD Table 2C-4 for advance placement guidelines) of the fi rst School Speed Limit sign assembly or S5-1 sign that is encountered in each direction as traffi c approaches the reduced school speed limit zone (see MUTCD Figures 7B-3 and 7B-5). Where increased fi nes are imposed for traffi c violations within a reduced school speed limit zone, a FINES HIGHER (R2-6P), FINES DOUBLE (R2-6aP), or $XX FINE (R2-6bP) plaque (see MUTCD Figure 2B-3) shall be installed as a supplement to the reduced school speed limit sign to notify road users. Except as provided in Paragraph 5, the downstream end of an authorized and posted reduced school speed limit zone shall be identifi ed

with an END SCHOOL SPEED LIMIT (S5-3) sign (see MUTCD Figures 7B-1 and 7B-5).

Option: If a reduced school speed limit zone ends at the same point as a higher fi nes zone, an END SCHOOL ZONE (S5-2) sign may be used instead of a combination of an END HIGHER FINES ZONE (R2-11) sign and an END SCHOOL SPEED LIMIT (S5-3) sign. A standard Speed Limit sign showing the speed limit for the

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consistent with the requirements of MUTCD Sections 2B.12, 7B.08, and 7B.12.

Note: NH law says “YIELD” so “STOP” would not be allowed.

Height of Signs

Sort: MUTCD Section 2A.18 contains provisions regarding the mounting height of signs.

Sign Color for School Warning Signs

Standard: School warning signs, including the “SCHOOL” portion of the School Speed Limit (S5-1) sign and including any supplemental plaques used in association with these warning signs, shall have a fl uorescent yellow-green background with a black legend and border unless otherwise provided in the MUTCD and this Handbook for a specifi c sign.

SCHOOL BUS TURN AHEAD Sign (S3-2)

Option: Th e SCHOOL BUS TURN AHEAD (S3-2) sign (see MUTCD Figure 7B-1) may be installed in advance of locations where a school bus turns around on a roadway at a location not visible to approaching road users for a distance as determined by the “0” column under Condition B of MUTCD Table 2C-4, and where there is no opportunity to relocate the school bus turn around to provide the distance provided in MUTCD Table 2C-4.

School Speed Limit Assembly (S4-1P, S4-2P, S4-3P, S4-4P, S4-6P, S5-1) and END SCHOOL SPEED LIMIT Sign (S5-3)

Standard: A School Speed Limit assembly (see MUTCD Figure 7B-1) or

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basic shape, message, legend layout, and colors should comply with the standards for fi xed-message signs. A confi rmation light or device to indicate that the speed limit message is in operation should be considered for inclusion on the back of the changeable message sign.

Standard: Fluorescent yellow-green pixels shall be used when the “SCHOOL” message is displayed on a changeable message sign for a school speed limit.

Option: Changeable message signs may use blank-out messages or other methods in order to display the school speed limit only during the periods it applies. Changeable message signs that display the speed of approaching drivers (see MUTCD Section 2B.13) may be used in a school speed limit zone. A Speed Limit Sign Beacon (see MUTCD Section 4L.04) also may be used, with a WHEN FLASHING legend, to identify the periods that the school speed limit is in eff ect.

Reduced School Speed Limit Ahead Sign (S4-5, S4-5a)

Guidance: A Reduced School Speed Limit Ahead (S4-5, S4-5a) sign (see MUTCD Figure 7B-1) should be used to inform road users of a

reduced speed zone where the speed limit is being reduced by more than 10 mph, or where engineering judgment indicates that advance notice would be appropriate.

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section of highway that is downstream from the authorized and posted reduced school speed limit zone may be mounted on the same post above the END SCHOOL SPEED LIMIT (S5-3) sign or the END SCHOOL ZONE (S5-2) sign.

Guidance: Th e beginning point of a reduced school speed limit zone should be at least 200 feet in advance of the school grounds, a school crossing, or other school related activities; however, this 200-foot distance should be increased if the reduced school speed limit is 30 mph or higher.

Standard: Th e School Speed Limit assembly shall be either a fi xed-message sign assembly or a changeable message sign. Th e fi xed-message School Speed Limit assembly shall consist of a top plaque (S4-3P) with the legend SCHOOL, a Speed Limit (R2-1) sign, and a bottom plaque (S4-1P, S4-2P, S4-4P, or S4-6P) indicating the specifi c periods of the day and/or days of the week that the special school speed limit is in eff ect (see MUTCD Figure 7B-1).

Note: When children are present, does not comply with state law.

Option: Changeable message signs (see MUTCD Chapter 2L and Section 6F.60) may be used to inform drivers of the school speed limit. If the sign is internally illuminated, it may have a white legend on a black background. Changeable message signs with fl ashing beacons may be used for situations where greater emphasis of the special school speed limit is needed.

Guidance: Even though it might not always be practical because of special features to make changeable message signs conform in all respects to the standards in the MUTCD and this Handbook for fi xed-message signs, during the periods that the school speed limit is in eff ect, their

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warning of a designated children’s playground that is located adjacent to the road.Th e Playground sign may have a fl uorescent yellow-green background with a black legend and border.Guidance: If the access to the playground area requires a roadway crossing, the application of crosswalk pavement markings (see MUTCD Section 3B.18) and Non-Vehicular Warning signs (see MUTCD Section 2C.50) should be considered.

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Standard: If used, the Reduced School Speed Limit Ahead sign shall be followed by a School Speed Limit sign or a School Speed Limit assembly. Th e speed limit displayed on the Reduced School Speed Limit Ahead sign shall be identical to the speed limit displayed on the subsequent School Speed Limit sign or School Speed Limit assembly.

Parking and Stopping Signs (R7 and R8 Series)

Option: Parking and stopping regulatory signs may be used to prevent parked or waiting vehicles from blocking pedestrians’ views, and drivers’ views of pedestrians, and to control vehicles as a part of the school traffi c plan.

Support: Parking signs and other signs governing the stopping and standing of vehicles in school areas cover a wide variety of regulations. Typical examples of regulations are as follows:

A. No Parking X:XX AM to X:XX PM School Days Only,• B. No Stopping X:XX AM to X:XX PM School Days Only,• C. XX Min Loading X:XX AM to X:XX PM School Days Only, • andD. No Standing X:XX AM to X:XX PM School Days Only.•

MUTCD Sections 2B.46, 2B.47, and 2B.48 contain information regarding the signing of parking regulations in school zone areas.

Playground Sign (W15-1)

Option: Th e Playground (W15-1) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2C-11) may be used to give advance

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CHAPTER 7

CROSSING HAZARDS

Introduction

Th is Chapter describes signs that warn motorists of locations where they might encounter unexpected crossing hazards. Potential hazards might be persons, animals or vehicles. Th e determining factor for use of these signs is the amount of time available for the driver to see the hazard and react properly. Also included in this chapter are signs warning pedestrians of hazardous crossing of roadways.

Note: State of New Hampshire Supplemental Crosswalk Identi-fi cation Devices: Th e Supplemental Crosswalk Identifi cation Devices inform drivers of pedestrian crosswalks. Th e State of New Hampshire DOT has approved it for temporary use on the center line of roads ad-jacent to crosswalks. As a supplemental sign, local governments must still install traffi c signs described in this chapter and pavement mark-ings as described in the MUTCD 2009 Edition. Th e device should not be used as a substitute, for, or on poles with Crossing Sign W11-2.

In-Street and Overhead Pedestrian Crossing Signs (R1-6, R1-6a, R1-9, and R1-9a)

Option: Th e In-Street Pedestrian Crossing (R1-6 or R1-6a) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2B-2) or the Overhead Pedestrian Crossing (R1-9 or R1-9a) sign (see MUTCD Figure 2B-2) may be used to remind road users of laws regarding right-of-way at an unsignalized pedestrian crosswalk. Th e legend STATE LAW may be displayed at the top of the R1-6, R1-6a, R1-9, and R1-9a signs, if applicable. On the R1-6 and R1-6a signs, the legends STOP or YIELD may be used instead of the appropriate STOP sign or YIELD sign symbol.

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Note: State law allows “YIELD” sign for pedestrians in crosswalk.

Highway agencies may develop and apply criteria for determining the applicability of In-Street Pedestrian Crossing signs.

Standard: If used, the In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign shall be placed in the roadway at the crosswalk location on the center line, on a lane line, or on a median island. Th e In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign shall not be post-mounted on the left-hand or right-hand side of the roadway. If used, the Overhead Pedestrian Crossing sign shall be placed over the roadway at the crosswalk location. An In-Street or Overhead Pedestrian Crossing sign shall not be placed in advance of the crosswalk to educate road users about the State law prior to reaching the crosswalk, nor shall it be installed as an educational display that is not near any crosswalk.

Guidance: If an island (see MUTCD Chapter 3I) is available, the In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign, if used, should be placed on the island.

Option: If a Pedestrian Crossing (W11-2) warning sign is used in combination with an In-Street or an Overhead Pedestrian Crossing sign, the W11-2 sign with a diagonal downward pointing arrow (W16-7P) plaque may be post-mounted on the right-hand side of the roadway at the crosswalk location.

Standard: Th e In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign and the Overhead Pedestrian Crossing sign shall not be used at signalized locations.Th e STOP FOR legend shall only be used in States where the State law specifi cally requires that a driver must stop for a pedestrian in a crosswalk.

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Th e In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign shall have a black legend (except for the red STOP or YIELD sign symbols) and border on a white background, surrounded by an outer yellow or fl uorescent yellow-green background area (see MUTCD Figure 2B-2). Th e Overhead Pedestrian Crossing sign shall have a black legend and border on a yellow or fl uorescent yellow-green background at the top of the sign and a black legend and border on a white background at the bottom of the sign (see MUTCD Figure 2B-2). Unless the In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign is placed on a physical island, the sign support shall be designed to bend over and then bounce back to its normal vertical position when struck by a vehicle.

Support: Th e Provisions of MUTCD Section 2A.18 concerning mounting height are not applicable for the In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign.

Standard: Th e top of an In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign shall be a maximum of 4 feet above the pavement surface. Th e top of an In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign placed in an island shall be a maximum of 4 feet above the island surface.

Option: Th e In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign may be used seasonably to prevent damage in winter because of plowing operations, and may be removed at night if the pedestrian activity at night is minimal.In-Street Pedestrian Crossing signs, Overhead Pedestrian Crossing signs, and Yield Here to (Stop Here For) Pedestrians signs may be used together at the same crosswalk.

Traffi c Signal Pedestrian and Bicycle Actuation Signs (R10-1 through R10-4, and R10-24 through R10-26)

Standard: Traffi c Signal signs applicable to pedestrian actuation (see

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MUTCD Figure 2B-26) or bicyclist actuation (see MUTCD Figure 9B-2) shall be mounted immediately above or incorporated into the pushbutton detector units (see MUTCD Section 4E.08).Support: Traffi c Signal signs applicable to pedestrians include:

A. CROSS ONLY ON GREEN (symbolic circular green) • (R10-1);B. CROSS ONLY ON (symbolic walk indication) SIGNAL • (R10-2);C. Push Button for Walk Signal (R10-3 series); and• D. Push Button for Green Signal (R10-4 series).•

Option: Th e following signs may be used as an alternate for the R10-3 and R10-4 signs:

A. Push Button to Cross Street Wait for Walk • Signal (R10-3a); or

B. Push Button to Cross Street Wait for • Green Signal (R10-4a).

Th e name of the street to be crossed may be substituted for • the word STREET in the legends on the R10-3a and R10-4a signs.

Guidance: Th e fi nger in the pushbutton symbol on the R10-3, R10-3a, R10-4, and R10-4a signs should point in the same direction as the arrow on the sign.

Option: Where symbol-type pedestrian signal

indications are used, an educational sign (R10-3b) may be used instead of the R10-3 sign to improve pedestrian understanding of pedestrian indications at signalized intersections. Where word-type pedestrian signal indications are being retained for the remainder

of their useful service life, the legends WALK/DONT WALK may be substituted for the symbols on the educational sign R10-3b, thus creating educational sign R10-3c. Th e R10-3d educational sign may be used to inform pedestrians that the pedestrian clearance time is suffi cient only for the pedestrian to cross to the median at locations where pedestrians cross in two stages using a median refuge island. Th e R10-3e educational sign may be used where countdown pedestrian signals have been provided. In order to assist the pedestrian in understanding which pushbutton to push, the R10-3f to R10-3i educational signs that provide the name of the street to be crossed may be used instead of the R10-3b to R10-3e educational signs.

Note: Word-type pedestrian signal indications are no longer allowed but do exist.

Th e R10-24 or R10-26 sign (see MUTCD Section 9B.11) may be used where a pushbutton detector has been installed exclusively to actuate a green phase for bicyclists. Th e R10-25 sign (see MUTCD Figure 2B-26) may be used where a pushbutton detector has been installed for pedestrians to activate In-Roadway Warning Lights (see MUTCD chapter 4N) or fl ashing beacons that have been added to the pedestrian warning signs.Support: MUTCD Section 4E.08 contains information regarding the application of the R10-32P plaque.

Note: New pedestrian signals shall have countdown signals.

Non-Vehicular Warning Signs (W11-2, W11-3, W11-4, W11-6, W11-7, W11-9, and W11-16 through W11-22)

Option: Non-Vehicular Warning (W11-2, W11-3, W11-4, W11-6, W11-7, W11-9, and W11-16 through W11-22) signs (see MUTCD Figure

2C-11) may be used to alert road users in advance of locations where

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unexpected entries into the roadway might occur or where shared use of the roadway by pedestrians, animals, or equestrians might occur.

Support: Th ese confl icts might be relatively confi ned, or might occur randomly over a segment of roadway.Guidance: If used in advance of a pedestrian, snowmobile, or equestrian crossing, the W11-2, W11-6, W11-7, and W11-9 signs should be supplemented with plaques (see MUTCD Section 2C.55) with the legend AHEAD or XX FEET to inform road users that they are approaching a point where crossing activity might occur.

Standard: If a post-mounted W11-2, W11-6, W11-7, or W11-9 sign is placed at the location of the crossing point where pedestrians, snowmobilers, or equestrians might be crossing the roadway, a diagonal downward pointing arrow (W16-7P) plaque (see MUTCD Figure 2C-12) shall be mounted below the sign. If the W11-2, W11-6, W11-7, or W11-9 sign is mounted overhead, the W16-7P plaque shall not be used.

Option: A Pedestrian Crossing (W11-2) sign may be placed overhead or may be post-mounted with a diagonal downward pointing arrow (W16-7P) plaque at the crosswalk location where Yield Here To (Stop Here For) Pedestrians signs (see MUTCD Section 2B.11) have been installed in advance of the crosswalk.

Standard: If a W11-2 sign has been post-mounted at the crosswalk location where a Yield Here to (Stop Here For) Pedestrians sign is used on the approach, the Yield Here to (Stop Here For) Pedestrians sign shall not be placed on the same post as or block the road user’s view of the W11-2 sign.Option:

An advance Pedestrian Crossing (W11-2) sign with an AHEAD or a distance supplemental plaque may be used in conjunction with a Yield Here to (Stop Here For) Pedestrians sign on the approach to the same crosswalk. Th e crossing location identifi ed by a W11-2, W11-6, W11-7, or W11-9 sign may be defi ned with crosswalk markings (see MUTCD Section 3B.18). Th e W11-2 and W11-9 signs and their related supplemental plaques may have a fl uorescent yellow-green background with a black legend and border.

Guidance: When a fl uorescent yellow-green background is used, a systematic approach featuring one background color within a zone or area should be used. Th e mixing of standard yellow and fl uorescent yellow-green backgrounds within a selected site area should be avoided.

Option: A Warning Beacon (see MUTCD Section 4L.03) may be used with any Non-Vehicular Warning sign to indicate specifi c periods when the condition or activity is present or is likely to be present, or to provide enhanced sign conspicuity. A supplemental WHEN FLASHING (W16-13P) plaque (see MUTCD Figure 2C-12) may be used with any Non-Vehicular Warning sign that is supplemented with a Warning Beacon to indicate specifi c periods when the condition or activity is present or is likely to be present.

Vehicular Traffi c Warning and Non-Vehicular Warning Signs (W11 Series and W8-6) on Low Volume Roads

Guidance: Vehicular Traffi c Warning signs (see MUTCD Figure 5C-2) should be used to alert road users to locations where frequent unexpected entries into the roadway by trucks, bicyclists, farm vehicles, fi re trucks, and other vehicles might occur. Such signs should be used only at locations where the road user’s sight distance is restricted or the condition, activity, or entering traffi c would be unexpected.

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Option: Non-Vehicular Warning signs (see MUTCD Figure 5C-2) may be used to alert road users in advance of locations where unexpected entries into the roadway or shared use by pedestrians, large animals, or other crossing activities might occur. A W7-3aP, W16-2P, or W16-9P supplemental plaque (see MUTCD Figure 5C-2), with the legend NEXT XX MILES, XX FEET, or AHEAD may be installed below a Vehicular Traffi c Warning or Non-Vehicular Warning sign (see MUTCD Sections 2C.49 and 2C.50) to inform road users that they are approaching a portion of the roadway or a point where crossing activity might occur.

Standard: When a Non-Vehicular Warning sign is placed at the location of the crossing point, a diagonal downward pointing arrow (W16-7P) plaque (see MUTCD Figure 5C-2) shall be mounted below the sign.

Guidance: If the activity is seasonal or temporary, the sign should be removed or covered when the condition or activity does not exist.

Motorized Traffi c Signs (W8-6, W11-10)

Option: Motorized Traffi c (W8-6, W11-10) signs may be used to alert road users to locations where unexpected travel on the roadway or entries into or departures from the roadway by construction vehicles might occur. Th e TRUCK CROSSING (W8-6) word message sign may be used as an alternate to the Truck Crossing (W11-10) symbol sign (see MUTCD Figure 6F-4) where there is an established construction vehicle crossing of the roadway.

Support: Th ese locations might be relatively confi ned or might occur randomly over a segment of roadway.

APPENDIX A: SIGN ILLUMINATION, RETROREFLECTIVITY, SHAPES,

COLORS, AND SIZES

Note: Th e Table numbers are identical to those in the MUTCD 2009 version.

Table I-2. Target Compliance Dates Established by the FHWA (Part 1 of 3)

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Table I-2. Target Compliance Dates Established by the FHWA (Part 2 of 3)

Table I-2. Target Compliance Dates Established by the FHWA (Part 3 of 3)

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Table 2A-1. Illumination of Sign Elements

Table 2A-2. Retrorefl ection of Sign Elements

Table 2A-3. Minimum Maintained Retrorefl ectivity Levels1

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Table 2A-4. Use of Sign Shapes Table 2A-5. Common Uses of Sign Colors

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Table 2B-1. Regulatory Sign and Plaque Sizes (Part 1 of 4) Table 2B-1. Regulatory Sign and Plaque Sizes (Part 2 of 4)

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Table 2B-1. Regulatory Sign and Plaque Sizes (Part 3 of 4) Table 2B-1. Regulatory Sign and Plaque Sizes (Part 4 of 4)

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Table 2C-2. Warning Sign and Plaque Sizes (Part 1 of 3) Table 2C-2. Warning Sign and Plaque Sizes (Part 2 of 3)

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Table 2C-2. Warning Sign and Plaque Sizes (Part 3 of 3)

Table 2C-3. Minimum Size of Supplemental Warning Plaques

Table 2C-4. Guidelines for Advance Placement of Warning Signs

Table 2D-2. Recommended Minimum Letter Heights on Street Name Signs

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Table 5A-1. Sign and Plaque Sizes on Low Volume Roads (Part 1 of 2)

Table 5A-1. Sign and Plaque Sizes on Low Volume Roads (Part 2 of 2)

Table 6C-1. Recommended Advance Warning Sign Minimum Spacing

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Table 6C-2. Stopping Sight Distance as a Function of Speed Table 7B-1. School Area Sign and Plaque Sizes

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APPENDIX B: FIGURES FOR HEIGHT AND LOCATION OF VARIOUS SIGNS

Note: Th e Figure numbers are identical to those in the MUTCD 2009 version.

Figure 2A-2. Examples of Heights and Lateral Locations of Sign Installations

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Figure 2A-3. Examples of Locations for Some Typical Signs at Intersections

Figure 2A-4. Relative Locations of Regulatory, Warning, and Guide Signs on an Intersection Approach (Part 1 of 2)

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Figure 2A-4. Relative Locations of Regulatory, Warning, and Guide Signs on an Intersection Approach (Part 2 of 2)

Figure 2B-14. Locations of ONE WAY Signs (Part 1 of 2)

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Figure 2B-14. Locations of ONE WAY Signs (Part 2 of 2) Figure 2C-2. Example of Warning Signs for a Turn

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Figure 3B-1. Example of Two-Lane, Two-Way Marking Applications

Figure 3B-21. Examples of Parking Space Markings

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Figure 3C-3. Example of Markings for a One-Lane Roundabout Figure 4C-9. Intersection Near a Grade Crossing (One Approach Lane)

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Figure 5B-1. Regulatory Signs on Low Volume Roads Figure 5B-2. Parking Signs and Plaques on Low Volume Roads

Figure 5C-1. Horizontal Alignment and Intersection Warning Sign Plaques and Object Markers on Low Volume Roads

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Figure 5C-2. Other Warning Signs and Plaques on Low Volume Roads

Figure 5F-1. Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Signs and Plaques on Low Volume Roads

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Figure 6C-1. Component Parts of a Temporary Traffi c Control Zone

Figure 6C-2. Examples of Warning Signs for a Turn

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Figure 6E-3. Use of Hand Signaling Devices by Flaggers Figure 6F-1. Height and Location of Signs--Typical Installations

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Figure 6F-2. Methods of Mounting Signs Other Th an on Posts Figure 6F-3. Regulatory Signs and Plaques in Temporary Traffi c Control Zones (Part 1 of 2)

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Figure 6F-3. Regulatory Signs and Plaques in Temporary Traffi c Control Zones (Part 2 of 2)

Figure 6F-4. Warning Signs and Plaques in Temporary Traffi c Control Zones (Part 1 of 3)

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Figure 6F-4. Warning Signs and Plaques in Temporary Traffi c Control Zones (Part 2 of 3)

Figure 6F-4. Warning Signs and Plaques in Temporary Traffi c Control Zones (Part 3 of 3)

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Figure 6H-10. Lane Closure on a Two-Lane Road Using Flaggers (Typical Application)

Figure 6H-11. Lane Closure on a Two-Lane Road with Low Traffi c Volumes (Typical Application)

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Figure 6H-15. Work in Center of a Road with Low Traffi c Volumes (Typical Application)

Figure 7B-6. In Street Signs in School Areas

174 175

Figure 8B-1. Regulatory Signs and Plaques for Grade Crossings Figure 9C-8. Examples of Obstruction Pavement Markings

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APPENDIX C: WORD AND PHRASE DEFINITIONS

Th e following words and phrases, when used in this Handbook, shall have the following meanings:

1. Accessible Pedestrian Signal — a device that communicates information about pedestrian signal timing in non-visual format such as audible tones, speech messages, and/or vibrating surfaces.

2. Accessible Pedestrian Signal Detector — a device designated to assist the pedestrian who has visual or physical disabilities in activating the pedestrian phase.

3. Active Grade Crossing Warning System — the fl ashing-light signals, with or without warning gates, together with the necessary control equipment used to inform road users of the approach or presence of rail traffi c at grade crossings.

4. Actuated Operation — a type of traffi c control signal operation in which some or all signal phases are operated on the basis of actuation.

5. Actuation — initiation of a change in or extension of a traffi c signal phase through the operation of any type of detector.

6. Advance Preemption — the notifi cation of approaching rail traffi c that is forwarded to the highway traffi c signal controller unit or assembly by the railroad or light rail transit equipment in advance of the activation of the railroad or light rail transit warning devices.

7. Advance Preemption Time — the period of time that is the diff erence between the required maximum highway traffi c signal preemption time and the activation of the railroad or light rail transit warning devices.

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8. Advisory Speed — a recommended speed for all vehicles operating on a section of highway and based on the highway design, operating characteristics, and conditions.

9. Alley — a street or highway intended to provide access to the rear or side of lots or buildings in urban areas and not intended for the purpose of through vehicular traffi c.

10. Altered Speed Zone — a speed limit, other than a statutory speed limit, that is based upon an engineering study.

11. Approach — all lanes of traffi c moving toward an intersection or a midblock location from one direction, including any adjacent parking lane(s).

12. Arterial Highway (Street) — a general term denoting a highway primarily used by through traffi c, usually on a continuous route or a highway designated as part of an arterial system.

13. Attended Lane (Manual Lane) — a toll lane adjacent to a toll booth occupied by a human toll collector who makes change, issues receipts, and perform other toll-related functions. Attended lanes at toll plazas typically require vehicles to stop to pay the toll.

14. Automatic Lane—see Exact Change Lane.

15. Average Annual Daily Traffi c (AADT) — the total volume of traffi c passing a point or segment of a highway facility in both directions for one year divided by the number of days in the year. Normally, periodic daily traffi c volumes are adjusted for hours of the day counted, days of the week, and seasons of the year to arrive at average annual daily traffi c.

16. Average Daily Traffi c (ADT) — the average 24 hour volume, being the total volume during a stated period divided by the number of days in that period. Normally, this would be periodic daily traffi c volumes over several days, not adjusted for days of the

week or seasons of the year.

17. Average Day — a day representing traffi c volumes normally and repeatedly found at a location, typically a weekday when volumes are infl uenced by employment or a weekend day when volumes are infl uenced by entertainment or recreation.

18. Backplate — see Signal Backplate.

19. Barrier-Separated Lane — a preferential lane or other special purpose lane that is separated from the adjacent general-purpose lane(s) by a physical barrier.

20. Beacon — a highway traffi c signal with one or more signal sections that operates in a fl ashing mode.

21. Bicycle — a pedal-powered vehicle upon which the human operator sits.

22. Bicycle Facilities — a general term denoting improvements and provisions that accommodate or encourage bicycling, including parking and storage facilities, and shared roadways not specifi cally defi ned for bicycle use.

23. Bicycle Lane — a portion of a roadway that has been designated for preferential or exclusive use by bicyclists by pavement markings and, if used, signs.

24. Bikeway — a generic term for any road, street, path, or way that in some manner is specifi cally designated for bicycle travel, regardless of whether such facilities are designated for the exclusive use of bicycles or are to be shared with other transportation modes.

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Published April 2010

UNH Technology Transfer Center33 Academic Way

Durham NH 03824

603-862-2826Fax: 603-862-0620t2.center@unh.eduwww.t2.unh.edu