Traffic Control Device Evaluation and Development Program

This five-year research project will evaluate numerous traffic control device issues and develop implementation recommendations based on the results. This project has been structured to address some of the unique considerations related to traffic control device research. Two of the most significant of these are that (1) traffic control device research needs are sometimes identified in a manner that necessitates a quick response that does not fit into the normal research program planning cycle, and (2) individual traffic control device research needs are not always sufficiently large enough to justify funding as a stand-alone research project, despite the fact that the issue may be an important one. The activities to be conducted in this project will be formulated on an annual basis, with the ability to add or delete activities at any time. The issues initially proposed to be addressed in the first year are: retroreflective signal back plates and sign posts, wider pavement markings, improved design for distance and destination signs, visibility of worker vests, methods for locating no passing zones, and improving speed limit sign conspicuity.