2008 Amendments to the MUTCD
New amendments to the MUTCD have been passed by the Federal Highway Administration on January 2nd, 2008 and will become effective on January 22nd, 2008. While most of us in the industry are sifting thru the documentation for a full understanding of the changes that will take effect, Street Sign USA can provide you with the following information.
Regulatory & Warning Signs
- Changes to the MUTCD will include the addition & discontinuation of some standard regulatory and warning signs. We will make those changes accordingly on our site as we discuss the matter with our vendors.
Increase In Retroreflectivity
- Regulatory, namely red on white signs; Warning, namely black on yellow signs, and Guide, name white on green signs are required to upgrade reflectivity. This means that Engineer Grade (RA) reflective film will no longer be compliant to the MUTCD standards. The film will be replaced with High-Intensity Prismatic (HIA) or Diamond Grade Prismatic (DG) sheeting.
Parking & Traffic Control Signs
- Standard parking & traffic control signs, namely black on white will remain the same meaning that no increase in retroreflectivity is required. This is due mainly in part that these types of signs are found in parking lots and not on main roads or highways. The standard Engineer Grade (RA) reflective sheeting will suffice. 3M has announced that an upgrade to the Engineer Grade (RA) reflective sheeting will be made. The new product, to be known as Engineer Grade Prismatic (EGP) reflective sheeting will soon replace the existing line. The advanced prismatic technology of EGP offers superior performance. It has greater reflective angularity and a brighter finish for better daytime visibility.
Replacement of Signage:
- The FWHA updated maintenance methods will help promote safety and mobility on the nation's streets and highways. In doing so, it is required that existing signs be updated to the new reflectivity standards. They are as follows:
- Replacement of regulatory, warning, and ground mounted guide signs (except street name signs) within 7 years of the effective date.
- Replacement of street name signs and overhead guide within 10 years of the effective date.
- Implementation and continued use of an assessment or management method that is designed to maintain traffic sign retroreflectivity at or above the established minimum levels within four years of the effective date.
Street Sign USA will update our product selection to conform to the new standards. We will update each product as they become available thru the manufacturers.
