View source for 616.12 Other TTC Zone Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD Chapter 6L)

[[Category:616 Temporary Traffic Control (MUTCD Part 6)|616.12]]
=={{SpanID|616.12.1}}616.12.1 Temporary Traffic Control Signals (MUTCD Section 6L.01) ==

'''Standard. '''Temporary traffic control signals (see [[902.4 Design Features of Traffic Control Signals (MUTCD Chapter 4D)#902.4.11|EPG 902.4.11]]) used to control road user movements through TTC zones and in other TTC situations shall comply with the applicable provisions of [[:Category:902 Signals (MUTCD Part 4)|EPG 902]].

'''Support. '''Temporary traffic control signals are typically used in TTC zones such as temporary haul road crossings; temporary one-way operations along a one-lane, two-way highway; temporary one-way operations on bridges, and intersections.

'''Standard. '''A temporary traffic control signal that is used to control traffic through a one-lane, two-way section of roadway shall comply with the provisions of [[902.15 Traffic Control Signals for One-Lane, Two-Way Facilities (MUTCD Chapter 4O)#902.15.2|EPG 902.15.2]].

'''Guidance. '''When temporary traffic control signals are used, conflict monitors typical of traditional traffic control signal operations should be used.

'''Support. '''Where pedestrians are detoured to a temporary traffic control signal, an accessible pedestrian signal (see [[902.11 Accessible Pedestrian Signals and Detectors (MUTCD Chapter 4K)|EPG 902.11]]) provides information in non-visual formats (such as audible tones and/or speech messages, and vibrating surfaces) so that a pedestrian with vision disabilities can know when to cross the street along the alternate route.

'''Option. '''Temporary traffic control signals may be portable or temporarily mounted on fixed supports.

'''Support. '''Wood pole span wire signals are typically used for temporary signals. Temporary lighting is typically provided on the wood poles (silhouette discernment lighting as described in [[:Category:901_Lighting|EPG 901]]).

'''Guidance. '''Temporary traffic control signals should only be used in situations where temporary traffic control signals are preferable to other means of traffic control, such as changing the work staging or work zone size to eliminate one-way vehicular traffic movements, using flaggers to control one-way or crossing movements, using STOP or YIELD signs, and using warning devices alone.

'''Support. '''Factors related to the design and application of temporary traffic control signals include the following:
:A. Safety and road user needs;
:B. Work staging and operations;
:C. The feasibility of using other TTC strategies (for example, flaggers, providing space for two lanes, or detouring road users, including bicyclists and pedestrians);
:D. Sight distance restrictions;
:E. Human factors considerations (for example, lack of driver familiarity with temporary traffic control signals);
:F. Road-user volumes including roadway and intersection capacity;
:G. Affected side streets and driveways;
:H. Vehicle speeds;
:I. The placement of other TTC devices;
:J. Parking;
:K. Turning restrictions;
:L. Pedestrians;
:M. The nature of adjacent land uses (such as residential or commercial);
:N. Legal authority;
:O. Signal phasing and timing requirements;
:P. Full-time or part-time operation;
:Q. Actuated, fixed-time, or manual operation;
:R. Power failures or other emergencies;
:S. Inspection and maintenance needs;
:T. Need for detailed placement, timing, and operation records; and
:U. Operation by contractors or by others.

Although temporary traffic control signals can be mounted on trailers or lightweight portable supports, fixed supports offer superior resistance to displacement or damage by severe weather, vehicle impact, and vandalism.

'''Guidance. '''Other TTC devices should be used to supplement temporary traffic control signals, including warning and regulatory signs, pavement markings, and channelizing devices.

Temporary traffic control signals not in use should be covered or removed.

If a temporary traffic control signal is located within ½ mile of an adjacent traffic control signal, consideration should be given to interconnected operation.

'''Standard. '''Temporary traffic control signals shall not be located within 200 feet of a grade crossing unless the temporary traffic control signal is provided with preemption in accordance with [[902.6 Steady (Stop-and-Go) Operation of Traffic Control Signals (MUTCD Chapter 4F)#902.6.18|EPG 902.6.18]], [[902.6 Steady (Stop-and-Go) Operation of Traffic Control Signals (MUTCD Chapter 4F)#902.6.19|EPG 902.6.19]], and [[913.4 Flashing-Light Signals, Automatic Gates, and Traffic Control Signals (MUTCD Chapter 8D)#913.4.9|EPG 913.4.9]], or unless a uniformed officer or flagger is provided at the crossing to prevent vehicles from stopping within the crossing.

=={{SpanID|616.12.2}}616.12.2 Automated Flagger Assistance Devices – General (MUTCD Section 6L.02)==

'''Support. '''Automated Flagger Assistance Devices (AFADs) enable a flagger(s) to be positioned out of the lane of traffic and are used to control road users through TTC zones. These devices are designed to be remotely operated either by a single flagger at one end of the TTC zone or at a central location, or by separate flaggers near each device’s location.

There are two types of AFADs:
:A. An AFAD (see [[#616.12.3|EPG 616.12.3]]) that uses a remotely controlled STOP/SLOW sign on either a trailer or a movable cart system to alternately control right-of-way.
:B. An AFAD (see [[#616.12.4|EPG 616.12.4]]) that uses remotely controlled red and yellow lenses and a gate arm to alternately control right-of-way.

AFADs might be appropriate for short-term and intermediate-term activities (see [[616.14 Types of Temporary Traffic Control Zone Activities (MUTCD Chapter 6N)#616.14.1|EPG 616.14.1]]). Typical applications include TTC activities such as, but not limited to:
:A. Bridge maintenance,
:B. Haul road crossings, and
:C. Pavement patching.

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

When used at night, the AFAD location shall be illuminated in accordance with [[616.4 Flagger Control (MUTCD Chapter 6D)#616.4.6|EPG 616.4.6]].

'''Guidance. '''AFADs should not be used for long-term stationary work (see [[616.14 Types of Temporary Traffic Control Zone Activities (MUTCD Chapter 6N)#616.14.1|EPG 616.14.1]]).

'''Standard. '''Because AFADs are not traffic control signals, they shall not be used as a substitute for or a replacement for a continuously operating temporary traffic control signal as described in [[#616.12.1|EPG 616.12.1]].

AFADs shall meet the crashworthy (see definition in [[911 General (MUTCD Part 1)#Definitions_of_Words_and_Phrases_Used_in_this_Manual_(MUTCD_Section_1C.02)|EPG 911 (MUTCD Section 1C.02)]]) performance criteria contained in [[616.1 General (MUTCD Chapter 6A)#616.1.4|EPG 616.1.4]].

'''Guidance. '''If used, AFADs should be located in advance of one-lane, two-way tapers and downstream from the point where approaching traffic is to stop in response to the device.

'''Standard. '''If used, AFADs shall be placed so that all of the signs and other items controlling traffic movement are readily visible to the driver of the initial approaching vehicle with advance warning signs alerting other approaching traffic to be prepared to stop.

If used, an AFAD shall be operated only by a flagger (see [[616.4 Flagger Control (MUTCD Chapter 6D)#616.4.1|EPG 616.4.1]]) who has been trained on the operation of the AFAD. The flagger(s) operating the AFAD(s) shall not leave the AFAD(s) unattended at any time while the AFAD(s) is being used.

The use of AFADs shall conform to one of the following methods:
:A. An AFAD at each end of the TTC zone (Method 1), or
:B. An AFAD at one end of the TTC zone and a flagger at the opposite end (Method 2).

Except as provided in the following Option paragraph, two flaggers shall be used when using either Method 1 or Method 2.

'''Option. '''A single flagger may simultaneously operate two AFADs (Method 1) or may operate a single AFAD on one end of the TTC zone while being the flagger at the opposite end of the TTC zone (Method 2) if both of the following conditions are present:
:A. The flagger has an unobstructed view of the AFAD(s), and
:B. The flagger has an unobstructed view of approaching traffic in both directions.

'''Guidance. '''When an AFAD is used, the advance warning signing should include a ROAD WORK AHEAD (WO20-1) sign, a ONE LANE ROAD (WO20-4) sign, and a BE PREPARED TO STOP (WO3-4) sign.

'''Standard. '''When the AFAD is not in use, the signs associated with the AFAD, both at the AFAD location and in advance, shall be removed or covered.

'''Guidance. '''A State or local agency that elects to use AFADs should adopt a policy, based on engineering judgment, governing AFAD applications. The policy should also consider more detailed and/or more restrictive requirements for AFAD use, such as the following:
:A. Conditions applicable for the use of Method 1 and Method 2 AFAD operation,
:B. Volume criteria,
:C. Maximum distance between AFADs,
:D. Conflicting lenses/indications monitoring requirements,
:E. Fail-safe procedures,
:F. Additional signing and pavement markings,
:G. Application consistency,
:H. Larger signs or lenses to increase visibility, and
:I. Use of backplates.

=={{SpanID|616.12.3}}616.12.3 STOP/SLOW Automated Flagger Assistance Devices (MUTCD Section 6L.03) ==

'''Standard. '''A STOP/SLOW Automated Flagger Assistance Device (AFAD) shall include a STOP/SLOW sign that alternately displays the STOP (R1-1) face and the SLOW (WO20-8) face of a STOP/SLOW paddle (see [[#fig616.12.3|Figure 616.12.3]]).

The AFAD’s STOP/SLOW sign shall have an octagonal shape, shall be fabricated of rigid material, and shall be mounted with the bottom of the sign a minimum of 6 feet above the pavement on an appropriate support. The size of the STOP/SLOW sign shall be at least 24 x 24 inches with letters at least 8 inches high. The background of the STOP face shall be red with white letters and border. The background of the SLOW face shall be diamond-shaped and orange with black letters and border. Both faces of the STOP/SLOW sign shall be retroreflectorized.

The AFAD’s STOP/SLOW sign shall have a means to positively lock, engage, or otherwise maintain the sign assembly in a stable condition when set in the STOP or SLOW position.

The AFAD’s STOP/SLOW sign shall be supplemented with active conspicuity devices by incorporating either:
:A. White or red flashing lights within the STOP face and white or yellow flashing lights within the SLOW face meeting the provisions contained in [[616.4 Flagger Control (MUTCD Chapter 6D)#616.4.2|EPG 616.4.2]]; or
:B. A Stop Beacon (see [[902.18 Flashing Beacons (MUTCD Chapter 4S)#902.18.5|EPG 902.18.5]]) mounted a maximum of 24 inches above the STOP face and a Warning Beacon (see [[902.18 Flashing Beacons (MUTCD Chapter 4S)#902.18.3|EPG 902.18.3]]) mounted a maximum of 24 inches above, below, or to the side of the SLOW face. The Stop Beacon shall not be flashed or illuminated when the SLOW face is displayed, and the Warning Beacon shall not be flashed or illuminated when the STOP face is displayed. Except for the mounting locations, the beacons shall comply with the provisions of [[902.18 Flashing Beacons (MUTCD Chapter 4S)|EPG 902.18]].

'''Option. '''Type B warning light(s) (see [[#616.12.7|EPG 616.12.7]]) may be used in lieu of the Warning Beacon during the display of the SLOW face of the AFAD’s STOP/SLOW sign.

'''Standard. '''If Type B warning lights are used in lieu of a Warning Beacon, they shall flash continuously when the SLOW face is displayed and shall not be flashed or illuminated when the STOP face is displayed.

'''Option. '''The faces of the AFAD’s STOP/SLOW sign may include louvers to improve the stability of the device in windy or other adverse environmental conditions.

'''Standard. '''If louvers are used, the louvers shall be designed such that the full sign face is visible to approaching traffic at a distance of 50 feet or greater.

'''Guidance. '''The STOP/SLOW AFAD should include a gate arm that descends to a down position across the approach lane of traffic when the STOP face is displayed and then ascends to an upright position when the SLOW face is displayed.

'''Option. '''In lieu of a stationary STOP/SLOW sign with a separate gate arm, the STOP/SLOW sign may be attached to a mast arm that physically blocks the approach lane of traffic when the STOP face is displayed and then moves to a position that does not block the approach lane when the SLOW face is displayed.

'''Standard. '''Gate arms, if used, shall be fully retroreflectorized on both sides, and shall have vertical alternating red and white stripes at 16-inch intervals measured horizontally as shown in [[913.4 Flashing-Light Signals, Automatic Gates, and Traffic Control Signals (MUTCD Chapter 8D)#913.4.1|Figure 913.4.1]]. When the arm is in the down position blocking the approach lane:
:A. The minimum vertical aspect of the arm and sheeting shall be 2 inches, and
:B. The end of the arm shall reach at least to the center of the lane being controlled.

A WAIT ON STOP (R1-7) sign (see [[#fig616.12.3|Figure 616.12.3]]) shall be displayed to road users approaching the AFAD.

'''Option: '''A GO ON SLOW (R1-8) sign (see [[#fig616.12.3|Figure 616.12.3]]) may also be displayed to road users approaching the AFAD.

The WAIT ON STOP/ GO ON SLOW (R1-7a) sign (see [[#fig616.12.3|Figure 616.12.3]]) may also be used to display both messages to approaching road users. 

'''Standard. '''The GO ON SLOW sign, if used, and the WAIT ON STOP sign shall be positioned on the same support structure as the AFAD or immediately adjacent to the AFAD such that they are in the same direct line of view of approaching traffic as the sign faces of the AFAD.

To inform road users to stop, the AFAD shall display the STOP face and the red or white lights, if used, within the STOP face shall flash or the Stop Beacon shall flash. To inform road users to proceed, the AFAD shall display the SLOW face and the yellow or white lights, if used, within the SLOW face shall flash or the Warning Beacon or the Type B warning lights shall flash.

If STOP/SLOW AFADs are used to control traffic in a one-lane, two-way TTC zone, safeguards shall be incorporated to prevent the flagger(s) from simultaneously displaying the SLOW face at each end of the TTC zone. Additionally, the flagger(s) shall not display the AFAD’s SLOW face until all oncoming vehicles have cleared the one-lane portion of the TTC zone.

{{SpanID|fig616.12.3}}
[[File:Figure 616.12.3 Example of the Use of a STOP_SLOW Automated Flagger Assistance Device (AFAD).png|thumb|center|700px|alt="A vertical two-lane roadway with one lane of traffic in each direction is shown.
At the bottom of the figure on the right shoulder, three advance warning signs (WO20-1, WO20-4, and WO3-4) are shown consecutively facing approaching traffic. Beyond these signs, an AFAD with recommended gate is shown, placed before optional channelizing devices positioned along the center line of the two opposing lanes.
At the AFAD, facing approaching traffic, four sign assemblies are shown. The first assembly consists of an R1-1 sign mounted above an R1-7a sign, with a flashing red beacon mounted above the R1-1 sign. To the right, the word “OR” is shown next to a second assembly that is identical except it uses a WO20-8 sign with a flashing yellow beacon instead of the R1-1 with red beacon.
A third sign assembly is shown with an R1-1 sign mounted above an R1-7 sign and an optional R1-8 sign. The R1-1 has a flashing red beacon above it. To the right, the word “OR” is shown next to a fourth assembly that is identical except it uses a WO20-8 sign with a flashing yellow beacon instead of the R1-1 with red beacon.
Past these sign assemblies, channelizing devices begin tapering diagonally from left to right across the lane and continue straight along the center of the roadway adjacent to a work space shown in the right lane. The devices then taper back across the lane toward the right shoulder further up the figure.
At the top of the figure, on the right shoulder, the same series of diamond-shaped warning signs, an AFAD with recommended gate, and the same set of sign assemblies are shown for traffic approaching from the opposite direction."
|'''Figure 616.12.3''' Example of the Use of a STOP/SLOW Automated Flagger Assistance Device (AFAD)]]

=={{SpanID|616.12.4}}616.12.4 Red/Yellow Lens Automated Flagger Assistance Devices (MUTCD Section 6L.04)==

'''Standard. '''A Red/Yellow Lens Automated Flagger Assistance Device (AFAD) shall alternately display a steadily illuminated CIRCULAR RED lens and a flashing CIRCULAR YELLOW lens to control traffic without the need for a flagger in the immediate vicinity of the AFAD or on the roadway (see [[#fig616.12.4|Figure 616.12.4]]).

Red/Yellow Lens AFADs shall have at least one set of CIRCULAR RED and CIRCULAR YELLOW lenses that are 12 inches in diameter. Unless otherwise provided in this Section, the lenses and their arrangement, CIRCULAR RED on top and CIRCULAR YELLOW below, shall comply with the applicable provisions for traffic signal indications in [[:Category:902 Signals (MUTCD Part 4)|EPG 902]]. If the set of lenses is post-mounted, the bottom of the housing (including brackets) shall be at least 7 feet above the pavement. If the set of lenses is located over any portion of the highway that can be used by motor vehicles, the bottom of the housing (including brackets) shall be at least 15 feet above the pavement.

'''Option. '''Additional sets of CIRCULAR RED and CIRCULAR YELLOW lenses, located over the roadway or on the left-hand side of the approach and operated in unison with the primary set, may be used to improve visibility and/or conspicuity of the AFAD.

'''Standard. '''A Red/Yellow Lens AFAD shall include a gate arm that descends to a down position across the approach lane of traffic when the steady CIRCULAR RED lens is illuminated and then ascends to an upright position when the flashing CIRCULAR YELLOW lens is illuminated. The gate arm shall be fully retroreflectorized on both sides, and shall have vertical alternating red and white stripes at 16-inch intervals measured horizontally as shown in [[913.4 Flashing-Light Signals, Automatic Gates, and Traffic Control Signals (MUTCD Chapter 8D)#fig913.4.1|Figure 913.4.1]]. When the arm is in the down position blocking the approach lane:
:A. The minimum vertical aspect of the arm and sheeting shall be 2 inches, and
:B. The end of the arm shall reach at least to the center of the lane being controlled.

A Stop Here On Red (R10-6 or R10-6a) sign (see [[903.2 Regulatory Signs and Barricades (MUTCD Chapter 2B)#903.2.48|EPG 903.2.48]]) shall be installed on the right-hand side of the approach at the point at which drivers are expected to stop when the steady CIRCULAR RED lens is illuminated (see [[#fig616.12.4|Figure 616.12.4]]).

To inform road users to stop, the AFAD shall display a steadily illuminated CIRCULAR RED lens and the gate arm shall be in the down position. To inform road users to proceed, the AFAD shall display a flashing CIRCULAR YELLOW lens and the gate arm shall be in the upright position.

If Red/Yellow Lens AFADs are used to control traffic in a one-lane, two-way TTC zone, safeguards shall be incorporated to prevent the flagger(s) from actuating a simultaneous display of a flashing CIRCULAR YELLOW lens at each end of the TTC zone. Additionally, the flagger shall not actuate the AFAD’s display of the flashing CIRCULAR YELLOW lens until all oncoming vehicles have cleared the one-lane portion of the TTC zone.

A change interval shall be provided as the transition between the display of the flashing CIRCULAR YELLOW indication and the display of the steady CIRCULAR RED indication. During the change interval, the CIRCULAR YELLOW lens shall be steadily illuminated. The gate arm shall remain in the upright position during the display of the steadily illuminated CIRCULAR YELLOW change interval.

A change interval shall not be provided between the display of the steady CIRCULAR RED indication and the display of the flashing CIRCULAR YELLOW indication.

'''Guidance. '''The steadily illuminated CIRCULAR YELLOW change interval should have a duration of at least 5 seconds, unless a different duration, within the range of durations recommended by [[902.6 Steady (Stop-and-Go) Operation of Traffic Control Signals (MUTCD Chapter 4F)#902.6.17|EPG 902.6.17]], is justified by engineering judgment.


{{SpanID|fig616.12.4}}

[[File:Figure 616.12.4 Example of the Use of a Red Yellow Lens Automated Flagger Assistance Device (AFAD).png|thumb|center|700px|alt="A vertical two-lane roadway with one lane of traffic in each direction is shown.
At the bottom of the figure on the right shoulder, WO20-1, WO20-4, WO3-4, and R10-6 signs are shown consecutively, facing approaching traffic. Beyond the R10-6 sign, an AFAD with recommended gate is shown centered across the right lane. Optional channelizing devices are shown on the center line in advance of the AFAD.
On the AFAD, a black square with a circular red signal face is shown above a second black square with a circular yellow signal face. At this point, channelizing devices begin tapering diagonally from left to right across the lane toward the center of the roadway.
Farther up the figure, a work space is shown in the right lane. Channelizing devices continue straight along the center of the roadway adjacent to the work space, then taper back across the right lane toward the right shoulder.
At the top of the figure on the right shoulder, WO20-1 and WO20-4 signs are again shown consecutively, facing approaching traffic from the opposite direction. Beyond the WO20-4 sign, a sign assembly consisting of a WO20-7 sign mounted above an optional WO16-2P plaque is shown. Past this sign assembly, a flagger is shown standing at the shoulder and extending slightly into the adjacent lane."
|'''Figure 616.12.4''' Example of the Use of a Red Yellow Lens Automated Flagger Assistance Device (AFAD)]]

=={{SpanID|616.12.5}}616.12.5 Portable Changeable Message Signs (MUTCD Section 6L.05) ==

'''Support. '''Portable changeable message signs (PCMS) are TTC devices installed for temporary use with the flexibility to display a variety of messages. In most cases, portable changeable message signs follow the same provisions for design and application as those given for changeable message signs in [[903.12 Changeable Message Signs (MUTCD Chapter 2L)|EPG 903.12]]. The information in this article describes situations where the provisions for portable changeable message signs differ from those given in [[903.12 Changeable Message Signs (MUTCD Chapter 2L)|EPG 903.12]].

Portable changeable message signs are used most frequently on high-density urban freeways, but have applications on all types of highways where highway alignment, road user routing problems, or other pertinent conditions require advance warning and information.

Portable changeable message signs have a wide variety of applications in TTC zones including: roadway, lane, or ramp closures; incident management; width restriction information; speed control or reductions; advisories on work scheduling; road user management and diversion; warning of adverse conditions or special events; and other operational control.

The primary purpose of portable changeable message signs in TTC zones is to advise the road user of unexpected situations. Portable changeable message signs are particularly useful as they are capable of:
:A. Conveying complex messages,
:B. Displaying real time information about conditions ahead, and
:C. Providing information to assist road users in making decisions prior to the point where actions must be taken.

Some typical applications include the following:
:A. Where the speed of vehicular traffic is expected to drop substantially;
:B. Where significant queuing and delays are expected;
:C. Where adverse environmental conditions are present;
:D. Where there are changes in alignment or surface conditions;
:E. Where advance notice of ramp, lane, or roadway closures is needed;
:F. Where crash or incident management is needed; and/or
:G. Where changes in the road user pattern occur.

'''Guidance. '''The components of a portable changeable message sign should include: a message sign, control systems, a power source, and mounting and transporting equipment. The front face of the sign should be covered with a protective material.

'''Standard. '''Portable changeable message signs shall comply with the applicable design and application principles established in [[903.1 General (MUTCD Chapter 2A)|EPG 903.1]]. Portable changeable message signs shall display only traffic operational, regulatory, warning, and guidance information, and shall not be used for advertising messages.

CMSs shall not be used to replace static sign messages. 

'''Support. '''[[903.12 Changeable Message Signs (MUTCD Chapter 2L)#903.12.2|EPG 903.12.2]] contains information regarding overly simplistic or vague messages that is also applicable to portable changeable message signs.

'''Standard. '''The colors used for legends on portable changeable message signs shall comply with those shown in [[903.1 General (MUTCD Chapter 2A) #tab903.1.6|Table 903.1.6]].

'''Support. '''[[903.12 Changeable Message Signs (MUTCD Chapter 2L)#903.12.4|EPG 903.12.4]] contains information regarding the luminance, luminance contrast, and contrast orientation that is also applicable to portable changeable message signs.

'''Guidance. '''Portable changeable message signs should be visible from ½ mile under both day and night conditions.

'''Support. '''[[903.2 Regulatory Signs and Barricades (MUTCD Chapter 2B)#903.2.20|EPG 903.2.20]] contains information regarding the design of portable changeable message signs that are used to display speed limits that change based on operational conditions, or are used to display the speed at which approaching drivers are traveling.

'''Guidance. '''A portable changeable message sign should be limited to three lines of eight characters per line or should consist of a full matrix display.

Except as provided in the following paragraph, the letter height used for portable changeable message sign messages should be a minimum of 18 inches.

'''Option. '''For portable changeable message signs mounted on service patrol trucks or other incident response vehicles, a letter height as short as 10 inches may be used. Shorter letter sizes may also be used on a portable changeable message sign used on low speed facilities provided that the message is legible from at least 650 feet.

The portable changeable message sign may vary in size.

'''Guidance. '''Messages on a portable changeable message sign should consist of no more than two phases, and a phase should consist of no more than three lines of text. Each phase should be capable of being understood by itself, regardless of the order in which it is read. Messages should be centered within each line of legend. If more than one portable changeable message sign is simultaneously legible to road users, then only one of the signs should display a sequential message at any given time.

'''Support. '''Road users have difficulties in reading messages displayed in more than two phases on a typical three-line portable changeable message sign.

'''Standard. '''Except when being used to simulate an Arrow Board display (see [[903.12 Changeable Message Signs (MUTCD Chapter 2L)#903.12.6|EPG 903.12.6]]), techniques of message display such as animation, rapid flashing, dissolving, exploding, scrolling, traveling horizontally or vertically across the face of the sign, or other dynamic elements shall not be used.

'''Guidance. '''When a message is divided into two phases, the display time for each phase should be at least 2 seconds, and the sum of the display times for both of the phases should be a maximum of 8 seconds.

All messages should be designed with consideration given to the principles provided in this article and also taking into account the following:
:A. The message should be as brief as possible and should contain three thoughts (with each thought preferably shown on its own line) that convey:
# The problem or situation that the road user will encounter ahead,
# The location of or distance to the problem or situation, and
# The recommended driver action.
:B. If more than two phases are needed to display a message, additional portable changeable message signs should be used. When multiple portable changeable message signs are needed, they should be placed on the same side of the roadway and they should be separated from each other by a distance of at least 1,000 feet.

'''Standard. '''When the word messages shown in [[:Category:911 General (MUTCD Part 1)#tab1d1|MUTCD Table 1D-1]] or [[:Category:911 General (MUTCD Part 1)#tab1d2| Table 1D-2]] need to be abbreviated on a portable changeable message sign, the provisions described in [[911 General (MUTCD Part 1)#Abbreviations_Used_on_Traffic_Control_Devices_(MUTCD_Section_1D.08)|EPG 911 (MUTCD Section 1D.08)]] shall be followed.

In order to maintain legibility, portable changeable message signs shall automatically adjust their brightness under varying light conditions.

The control system shall include a display screen upon which messages can be reviewed before being displayed on the message sign. The control system shall be capable of maintaining memory when power is unavailable.

Portable changeable message signs shall be equipped with a power source and a battery back-up to provide continuous operation when failure of the primary power source occurs.

The mounting of portable changeable message signs on a trailer, a large truck, or a service patrol truck shall be such that the bottom of the message sign shall be a minimum of 7 feet above the roadway in urban areas and 5 feet above the roadway in rural areas when it is in the operating mode.

'''Guidance. '''Portable changeable message signs should be used as a supplement to and not as a substitute for conventional signs and pavement markings.

When portable changeable message signs are used for route diversion, they should be placed far enough in advance of the diversion to allow road users ample opportunity to perform necessary lane changes, to adjust their speed, or to exit the affected highway.

Portable changeable message signs should be sited and aligned to provide maximum legibility and to allow time for road users to respond appropriately to the portable changeable message sign message.

Portable changeable message signs should be placed off the shoulder of the roadway and behind a traffic barrier, if practicable. Where a traffic barrier is not available to shield the portable changeable message sign, it should be placed off the shoulder and outside of the clear zone. If a portable changeable message sign has to be placed on the shoulder of the roadway or within the clear zone, it should be delineated with retroreflective TTC devices (see [https://www.modot.org/media/16892 Standard Plan 616.10]).

When portable changeable message signs are used in TTC zones, they should display only TTC messages.

When portable changeable message signs are not being used to display TTC messages, they should be relocated such that they are outside of the clear zone or shielded behind a traffic barrier and turned away from traffic. If relocation or shielding is impracticable, they should be delineated with retroreflective TTC devices.

Portable changeable message sign trailers should be delineated on a permanent basis by affixing retroreflective material, known as conspicuity material, in a continuous line on the face of the trailer as seen by oncoming road users.

=={{SpanID|616.12.6}}616.12.6 Arrow Boards (MUTCD Section 6L.06) ==

'''Standard. '''An arrow board shall be a sign with a matrix of elements capable of either flashing or sequential displays. This sign shall provide additional warning and directional information to assist in merging and controlling road users through or around a TTC zone.

'''Guidance. '''An arrow board in the arrow or chevron mode should be used to advise approaching traffic of a lane closure along major multi-lane roadways in situations involving heavy traffic volumes, high speeds, and/or limited sight distances, or at other locations and under other conditions where road users are less likely to expect such lane closures.

If used, an arrow board should be used in combination with appropriate signs, channelizing devices, or other TTC devices.

An arrow board should be placed on the shoulder of the roadway or, if practicable, farther from the traveled lane. It should be delineated with retroreflective TTC devices. When an arrow board is not being used, it should be removed; if not removed, it should be shielded; or if the previous two options are not feasible, it should be delineated with retroreflective TTC devices.

'''Standard. '''Arrow boards shall meet the minimum size, legibility distance, number of elements, and other specifications shown in [[#fig616.12.6|Figure 616.12.6]].

'''Support. '''Type B arrow boards are truck-mounted units, appropriate for maintenance or mobile operations. Type C arrow boards are trailer-mounted units, intended to be used on high-speed, high-volume motor vehicle traffic control projects. Type D arrow boards are intended for use on vehicles authorized by the State or local agency. 


{{SpanID|fig616.12.6}}
[[File:Figure 616.12.6 Advance Warning Arrow Board Specifications.png|thumb|center|600px|alt="A set of operating modes is shown along with representative arrow board displays illustrated as yellow dots on a horizontal rectangular black background. The display column includes the note “right arrow shown; left is similar.”
Under “Operating Mode,” the first heading is “1. At least one of the three following modes shall be provided.” The following modes are listed with corresponding displays:
• Flashing Arrow:
A horizontal arrow pointing to the right is shown, consisting of five yellow dots forming the shaft and five yellow dots forming the arrowhead. A label beneath the display states “Merge Right,” with a note indicating that “Merge Left” is similar.
• Sequential Arrow:
Three displays are shown, each illustrating a right-pointing arrow composed of a five-dot arrowhead and a shaft of increasing length. The shafts are shown with two, three, and five yellow dots, respectively. Each display is labeled “Merge Right,” with a note indicating that “Merge Left” is similar.
• Sequential Chevron:
Three displays are shown, each consisting of one or more right-pointing chevrons, with each chevron formed by five yellow dots. The first illustration contains one chevron at the left side of the panel. The second contains two chevrons centered across the panel. The third contains three chevrons spanning the panel. A label below these displays states “Merge Right.”
Under “Operating Mode,” the second heading is “2. The following mode shall be provided: Flashing Double Arrow.”
The accompanying display shows a double-headed horizontal arrow composed of three yellow dots in the center and arrowheads of five yellow dots each at both ends. A label beneath the display states “Merge Right or Left.”
Under “Operating Mode,” the third heading is “3. At least one of the following modes shall be provided: Flashing Caution or Alternating Diamond Caution.”
Two displays are shown under “Display,” separated by the word “or”:
The first display shows four yellow dots, one positioned near each corner of the panel. A label beneath it reads “Flashing Caution.”
The second display shows two alternating diamond patterns, each diamond composed of eight yellow dots, displayed on opposite sides of the panel. A label beneath this display reads “Alternating Diamond Caution.”
Below the operating modes, a table lists arrow board types and associated specifications:
• Type B arrow boards have a minimum size of 60 × 30 inches, a minimum legibility distance of 3/4 mile, a minimum of 13 elements, and are designated as Truck Mounted.
• Type C arrow boards have a minimum size of 96 × 48 inches, a minimum legibility distance of 1 mile, a minimum of 15 elements, and are designated as Trailer Mounted.
• Type D arrow boards have no minimum size requirement, a minimum legibility distance of 1/2 mile, and a minimum of 12 elements, and are designated for Emergency Vehicle use.
A footnote states that the length of the arrow equals 48 inches and the width of the arrowhead equals 24 inches."
|'''Figure 616.12.6''' Advance Warning Arrow Board Specifications]]


'''Standard. '''Type B and C arrow boards shall have solid rectangular appearances. A Type D arrow board shall conform to the shape of the arrow.

All arrow boards shall be finished in non-reflective black. The arrow board shall be mounted on a vehicle, a trailer, or other suitable support.

'''Guidance. '''The minimum mounting height, measured vertically from the bottom of the board to the roadway below it or to the elevation of the near edge of the roadway, of an arrow board should be 7 feet, except on vehicle-mounted arrow boards, which should be as high as practicable.

A vehicle-mounted arrow board should be provided with remote controls.

'''Standard. '''Arrow board elements shall be capable of at least a 50 percent dimming from full brilliance. The dimmed mode shall be used for nighttime operation of arrow boards.

'''Guidance. '''Full brilliance should be used for daytime operation of arrow boards.

'''Standard. '''The arrow board shall have suitable elements capable of the various operating modes. The color presented by the elements shall be yellow.

'''Guidance. '''If an arrow board consisting of a bulb matrix is used, the elements should be recess-mounted or equipped with an upper hood of not less than 180 degrees.

'''Standard. '''The minimum element on-time shall be 50 percent for the flashing mode, with equal intervals of 25 percent for each sequential phase. The flashing rate shall be not less than 25 or more than 40 flashes per minute.

An arrow board shall have the following three mode selections:

:A. A Flashing Arrow, Sequential Arrow, or Sequential Chevron mode;
:B. A flashing Double Arrow mode; and
:C. A flashing Caution or Alternating Diamond Caution mode.

An arrow board in the arrow or chevron mode shall be used only for stationary or moving lane closures on multi-lane roadways.

For shoulder work, for blocking the shoulder, for roadside work near the shoulder, or for temporarily closing one lane on a two-lane, two-way roadway, an arrow board shall be used only in the caution mode.

'''Guidance. '''For a stationary lane closure, the arrow board should be located on the shoulder at the beginning of the merging taper.

Where the shoulder is narrow, the arrow board should be located in the closed lane.

'''Standard. '''When arrow boards are used to close multiple lanes, a separate arrow board shall be used for each closed lane.

'''Guidance. '''When arrow boards are used to close multiple lanes, if the first arrow board is placed on the shoulder, the second arrow board should be placed in the first closed lane at the upstream end of the second merging taper (see [[616.16 Typical Applications (MUTCD Chapter 6P)|TA-37]]). When the first arrow board is placed in the first closed lane, the second arrow board should be placed in the second closed lane at the downstream end of the second merging taper.

For mobile operations where a lane is closed, the arrow board should be located to provide adequate separation from the work operation to allow for appropriate reaction by approaching drivers.

'''Standard. '''A vehicle displaying an arrow board shall be equipped with high-intensity rotating, flashing, oscillating, or strobe lights.

Arrow boards shall only be used to indicate a lane closure. Arrow boards shall not be used to indicate a lane shift.

'''Option. '''A portable changeable message sign may be used to simulate an arrow board display.

=={{SpanID|616.12.7}}616.12.7 Flashing Beacons and Warning Lights (MUTCD Section 6L.07) ==

'''Option. '''Flashing beacons (see [[902.18 Flashing Beacons (MUTCD Chapter 4S)|EPG 902.18]]) and/or warning lights may be used to supplement certain retroreflectorized signs and channelizing devices as described in this article. 

'''Support. '''Type A and Type B warning lights are portable, powered, yellow, lens-directed, enclosed lights.

'''Standard. '''Warning lights shall comply with the provisions in Chapter 13 of the publication entitled, “Equipment and Materials Standards of the Institute of Transportation Engineers,” 1998, Institute of Transportation Engineers.

When warning lights are used, they shall be mounted on signs or channelizing devices in a manner that, if hit by an errant vehicle, they will not be likely to penetrate the windshield.

'''Guidance. '''The maximum spacing for warning lights should be identical to the channelizing device spacing requirements.

'''Standard. '''Except for the sequential flashing warning lights that are described in the following paragraph, flashing warning lights shall not be used for delineation, as a series of flashers fails to identify the desired vehicle path.

If a series of sequential flashing warning lights is used on channelizing devices that form a merging taper, the successive flashing of the lights shall occur from the upstream end of the merging taper to the downstream end of the merging taper in order to identify the desired vehicle path. Each flashing warning light in the sequence shall be flashed at a rate of not less than 55 or more than 75 times per minute. 

'''Guidance. '''Sequential flashing warning lights should be used for merging tapers on interstate highways during nighttime operations.

'''Option. '''Sequential flashing warning lights may be used for merging tapers on other multi-lane highways as determined by the district.

'''Standard. '''Type A Low-Intensity Flashing warning lights for sequential flashing shall be maintained so as to be capable of being visible on a clear night from a distance of 3,000 feet. Type B High-Intensity Flashing warning lights for AFADs shall be maintained so as to be capable of being visible on a sunny day when viewed without the sun directly on or behind the device from a distance of 1,000 feet. 

Warning lights shall have a minimum mounting height of 30 inches to the bottom of the lens.

{{SpanID|fig616.12.7}}
[[File:Figure 616.12.7 Sequential Flashing Warning Light.png|thumb|center|850px|alt=|'''Figure 616.12.7''' Sequential Flashing Warning Light]]

=={{SpanID|616.12.8}}616.12.8 High-Level Warning Devices (Flag Trees) (MUTCD Section 6L.08)==

'''Support. '''MoDOT does not use the High-Level Warning Devices.