Now that the 2015 construction season is well underway, MDOT has asked MITA to send out a reminder about the proper use of roll-up signs.
While Part 6 of the Michigan Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MMUTCD) allows signs to be placed at a 1-foot bottom height, a 1-foot minimum bottom height is NOT allowed on MDOT roadways.
The proper utilization criteria for roll-up signs on MDOT projects are defined section 812.03.D.1 of the 2012 MDOT Standard Specifications for Construction. Below are a few highlights from the noted section:
Temporary signs must meet NCHRP-350 crashworthy requirements or the requirements of the Manual for Assessing Safety Hardware (MASH), as applicable.
Mount signs at a bottom height of at least 5 feet above the near edge of pavement and at least 5 feet above ground. If placing a sign behind a retaining wall, provide a bottom height of at least 5 feet above the top of the wall and provide a minimum height above the ground behind the wall to ensure visibility.
If erecting signs behind a curb, or within 6 feet of a pedestrian walkway, mount signs at a bottom height of at least 7 feet above ground.
Erect signs with supports vertical and the legend or symbol horizontal. Ensure signs do not vary from plumb by more than 2 inches over 4 feet.
The Department will allow the use of flexible, roll-up signs only during daylight hours. The Department will not allow the use mesh signs.
Please keep in mind that even though a 1-foot minimum height is NOT allowed on MDOT projects it is allowed, per MMUCTD part 6, on projects that do not reference the MDOT Standard Specifications for Construction.
If you have any questions or comments contact Glenn Bukoski at glennbukoski@mi-ita.com or Doug Needham at douglasneedham@mi-ita.com or call them at the MITA office at 517-347-8336.
