Traffic Control Devices

Traffic control devices on approaches to highway ‑rail crossings require regular inspection and maintenance. Pavement markings, if present, may need to be replaced to maintain adequate retroreflectivity and legibility of word and symbol markings. Signs on the approaches will gradually lose their retroreflectivity and should be inspected as outlined in MUTCD Section 2A.08. Lighting and active devices should be observed on a regular basis and re-lamped as necessary. Road crews should be on alert for missing or damaged devices. Road crews should also observe the approach roadway to confirm that vegetation does not obscure the traffic control devices from approaching drivers and should trim or cut trees or brush as necessary. Higher-quality materials, such as improved sign sheeting and preformed tape, thermoplastic, or other durable pavement marking materials, can offer dual benefits by increasing the effectiveness of the devices while reducing the required number of maintenance cycles. Note: This document summarizes current practices but does not set standards; practitioners are advised to check current local standards and requirements (refer to Disclaimer and Quality Assurance Statement). Users of the data provided within this document should anticipate possible variations from current information within this document should anticipate possible variations from current information within the FRA databases, which are updated monthly.