3T-Fundamentals of Roadway Signage

From the roadway signage course, the engineer/planner should have a basic understanding of the definition and use of the most commonly used signs in the Manual for Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). The effective use of roadway signs is as critical as the roadway design itself to the functioning of a roadway. Roadway signs provide guidance to the driver informing them of regulations, warnings and positive guidance. Information is provided to the driver related to the use of a roadway that increase the safety and efficiency of the roadway. Information pertaining to design of signs is included retroreflection and color of signs. In addition, guidance of installation of ground mount signs is discussed as it relates to sign panel sizes, mounting height, lateral offset, orientation, posts/mountings and maintenance. Installation of overhead signs is covered as it relates to mounting. Roadway signs are divided into numerous categories including regulatory, warning and guide signs. Each category has rules for their usage. There are also requirements as to the proper placement of roadway signs. Consistent use of roadway signs allows for driver education as to the proper use of a roadway. Proper placement and installation also allow for enforcement of roadway rules such as speed limit enforcement. Types of signs including their meaning and proper usage on different types of roadways is covered for standard regulatory and warning signs. The specific use of object markers is discussed. Guide signs for conventional roads, preferential/managed lanes and advanced information signs for usage on freeways is also covered. Signs specific to toll roads are identified and discussed. General information signs for general service and specific service are also identified. The proper use of recreational signs is also covered. The advantages of using changeable and dynamic message signs with standard roadway signing is discussed. Lastly, emergency management signs are briefly covered. Please note that this course only provides a sampling of the signs identified in the MUTCD for educational purposes. The most commonly used signs are detailed in this course. A full listing of signs can be found in the MUTCD.