618.01 Description
This work is the furnishing, installing, and maintenance of traffic signs, barricades, lights, signals, pavement markings, and other specified traffic control devices. It includes flagging and pilot car operation and furnishing and applying dust control.
618.02 Materials
Furnish materials in accordance with the contract, the MUTCD, and the following subsection requirements: Advance Warning Arrow Panels .............................. 715.03 Flagger Ahead Warning Signs ................................. 715.05 Portable Sign Support Assemblies .......................... 715.02 Retroreflective Sheeting .......................................... 704.01.7 Signs and Channelizing Devices ............................. 715.01 Temporary Striping Tape ......................................... 714.01 Temporary Striping Tabs ......................................... 714.02 Temporary Waterborne Traffic Paint ....................... 714.03 Warning Lights ........................................................ 715.04 Furnish work zone traffic control devices that meet the NCHRP 350 or the MASH crash test requirements.
618.03 Construction Requirements
618.03.1 Purpose and Prosecution of Work Zone Traffic Control
Schedule construction and provide work zone traffic control to accomplish the following:
1.Provide the protection, safety, and convenience for motorists, bicyclists, pedestrians, and other roadway users.
2.Ensure the protection and safety of construction personnel.
3.Advance the project work in the most beneficial manner to the public; and
4.Provide mobility for highway users. Provide work zone traffic control for all construction activities on the roadway and within the clear construction zone and other specified areas. The construction clear zone is the area within 30 feet (9.2 m) of the edge of a traffic lane. Furnish work zone traffic control in accordance with the contract requirements, the MUTCD, and the approved traffic control plan.
618.03.2 Traffic Control Plan
The Detailed Drawings and the MUTCD provide traffic control requirements for the contract.
A.Traffic Control Plan Requirements. Submit a traffic control plan in accordance with the Table of Contractor Submittals. Address the proposed operations and contingencies in the submitted plan. Deviations or modifications from the submitted traffic control plan may be made to address field conditions if approved by the Project Manager. Limit inconvenience to the traveling public as much as practicable and account for the safety of both the traveling public and project personnel. The Detailed Traffic Control Plan for the proposed activities must consist of the following:
1.Contract Specific Drawings. Submit contract specific traffic control drawings that include proposed traffic control configurations. Submit project specific traffic control 618 – TRAFFIC CONTROL 2020 EDITION V5.1 618-2 plans on aerial overlays for urban areas. Submit traffic control aerial overlays for other traffic control elements when requested by the Project Manager. Provide drawings with the same level of detail as in the MUTCD and the Detailed Drawings. Identify the type and location of work zone traffic control devices proposed for use.
2.Special Features. Identify the location and purpose of proposed flaggers, temporary signals, pilot car use, business access signs, authorized vehicle median crossings, temporary median crossings, interchanges, interstate crossovers and detours. Detours not identified in the contract are subject to the approval of the Project Manager.
3.Sequencing Details. Provide details for each phase in the sequence of operations and for each type of construction operation. At a minimum, include details for earthwork operations, gravel placement, paving, seal and cover, striping, bridge work, detours, permanent sign installation, guardrail work, temporary blunt end protection, temporary access breaks, equipment crossings, and any other work within the clear zone. Sequence the work such that equipment does not operate against the flow of traffic without the approval of the Project Manager.
4.Continuous Traffic. Provide details that ensure the continuous flow of traffic through the work zone. • Maintain access to and from the premises of adjacent property owners and approaches at all times. • Do not stop traffic in both directions at the same time unless approved by the Project Manager. • Maintain a minimum of one lane of traffic at all times. • Return traffic to normal two-lane operation at night and on nonworking days. • Identify measures to provide suitable passage of mail delivery and scheduled school bus runs within the project limits. • Address traffic control measures for peak travel times on urban projects, signal replacements, and increased traffic due to public events on or near the project.
5.Off-highway Vehicle (OHV) Separation. Identify proposed measures and devices to keep articulated trucks, scrapers, and other OHVs separated from traffic. Separate OHVs from traffic by means of separate haul roads. Do not operate OHVs faster than 35 mph or the speed limit signed for the traveling public, whichever is lower. If any OHV operator violates this requirement or drives in an unsafe or erratic manner, upon written notice by the Project Manager, this driver must be removed from the project as an OHV operator. If a separate haul road is not physically possible, submit an alternate plan for approval. In order to be considered, the plan must meet the following requirements at a minimum: • The traveling public has the right-of-way. • When an OHV approaches vehicles, the OHV must come to a complete stop until all vehicles pass, including traffic lines led by pilot cars. • Equip the OHVs with a back-up alarm, back-up camera, and warning light.
6.Emergency Vehicles/Situations. Identify proposed measures to manage traffic delays due to incidents within the project limits and to accommodate emergency 2020 EDITION V5.1 TRAFFIC CONTROL – 618 618-3 vehicles into and through the project limits. These measures must be presented to any local governments, tribes, or jurisdictions affected by the project.
7.Pedestrian Traffic Control. Identify proposed measures and routes to maintain pedestrian traffic control if there are any pedestrian facilities within the project limits. Always provide ADA compliant temporary measures for pedestrian facilities. Do not close pedestrian routes without Project Manager approval. If closures of pedestrian routes are required, identify the proposed measures to warn, direct, and guide pedestrian traffic.
8.Certifications. Submit a completed form MDT-CON-618-02 prior to placing traffic control devices. At the Project Manager’s request, provide certification that each type of traffic control device in use or to be used on the project meets retro-reflectivity and NCHRP 350 or MASH requirements.
9.Written Narrative. Provide a WN that details the proposed traffic control configuration for the project’s construction operations. The WN must consist of the following:
a.Supporting details and explanation for the traffic control configuration proposals.
b.Detailed descriptions of the proposed traffic control for each separate operation of work.
c.A description of the construction sequence of operations and how the traffic control plan will accommodate each sequence. Ensure that the traffic control sequence of operations corresponds with the project schedule as described in Subsections 108.03.2 .
d.Schedule of maintenance of traffic control devices.
B.Traffic Control Plan Updates. Submit an updated traffic control plan that represents proposed activities. If the traffic control plan previously provided is current and changes to traffic control operations are not anticipated, provide written notification of this information. Failure to submit an updated traffic control plan on time is cause for the Project Manager to suspend work on the project. Submit updates to the traffic control plan at the following times:
1.On the 1 st of each month for projects located in the Billings, Glendive, or Great Falls districts. On the 15th of each month for projects located in the Butte or Missoula districts.
2.When changes to the original construction operation plan requires a change to the traffic control plan. Coordinate the revision of the traffic control plan with the submission of the project schedule updates per Subsections 108.03.2 . If the traffic control is not proceeding consistent with the Contractor’s most recent traffic control plan, the Project Manager may require that the Contractor submit an updated traffic control plan that accurately reflects the Contractor’s construction operations. If a required updated traffic control plan is not received or operations are not being conducted as per the current traffic control plan, the Project Manager may issue a project shut down order. Submit an updated traffic control plan prior to continuing work. Shut down orders due to the failure to meet traffic control requirements will not be considered as justification for additional compensation or contract time. 618 – TRAFFIC CONTROL 2020 EDITION V5.1 618-4
618.03.3 Traffic Control Conference
Attend a work zone traffic control conference organized by the Project Manager before starting work that alters the public’s use of any roadway. The provisions for traffic control proposed for each stage of construction will be reviewed.
618.03.4 Traffic Control Reviews
Designate personnel to be responsible for traffic control work and its continuous surveillance. The designees must be available 24 hours a day to respond to calls concerning damage to traffic control devices from any cause. Provide the names and telephone numbers of 4 designees at the pre-construction conference. Designees, upon notification of a traffic control issue, must respond to the project within 2 hours. The Project Manager and the designees will conduct periodic reviews of the traffic control throughout the work to ensure compliance with the traffic control plan. The reviews will be conducted at night, during adverse weather conditions, when construction work is active and inactive, and at other times as necessary.
618.03.5 Traffic Control General Requirements
Meet all traffic control plan requirements before starting work affecting the roadway. Furnish and maintain traffic control devices that meet the “acceptable” category described in Quality Guidelines for Temporary Traffic Control Devices and Features published by ATSSA. Repair or remove and replace “marginal” devices within 24 hours; and repair or remove and replace “unacceptable” devices immediately. Anything in the worse-than-marginal conditions is not acceptable. Do not deliver devices in the “unacceptable” category to the jobsite. Properly maintain, clean, and operate devices when in use. Immediately remove the devices when they are no longer applicable to the work. Install traffic control devices in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations or instructions. Immediately remove or cover the entire sign face of non-applicable signs. Use coverings that are opaque, non-reflective, and securely fastened to eliminate visibility of the sign face. Cover signs with shapes having a specific meaning, such as STOP and YIELD, from both sides in a manner that masks the shape. Use materials of sufficient durability to resist deterioration due to weathering and atmospheric conditions. Do not use tape, paper, garbage bags, or cardboard for the covering. Do not rotate signs. Remove traffic control devices when not in use. Limit the number of portables towed at a single time as necessary for safe travel. Immediately remove existing signs and other traffic control devices on the present traveled way or on connecting state or federal routes to be abandoned when they no longer apply. Ensure roadways are always appropriately signed. Turn removed signs over to the Department. Provide functional traffic lanes with signing and channelizing appropriate to the roadway condition at the close of each work day. For long-term stationary operations (greater than 3 days), remove pavement markings in the traveled way that are no longer applicable in accordance with Subsection 620.03.10 . Minimize pavement scarring when removing pavement marking material. Do not paint over existing pavement markings with black paint or spray with asphalt as a substitute for removal or obliteration. Always provide the traffic an un-obscured view of traffic control devices. Store or park construction equipment, vehicles, materials, and debris at least 10 feet (3 m) behind guardrail or outside the clear zone. When this is impractical, use approved warning 2020 EDITION V5.1 TRAFFIC CONTROL – 618 618-5 devices and protective measures to delineate the item. Only equipment and materials for immediate use or incorporation into the work may be placed within the clear zone. Store unused traffic control devices outside the clear zone in an approved staging area. Contractor furnished traffic control devices are the Contractor’s property. Traffic control devices furnished by the Department or installed on a force account basis are the Department’s property. Repair or replace all damaged traffic control devices. Damage caused by Contractors are not eligible for payment. If the Contractor fails to provide the required traffic control, the Project Manager will provide the work and deduct the costs from monies due or that may become due the Contractor. Contractors’ employees need to obey all traffic control requirements. Meet the requirements of Subsection 703.08(C) for all temporary signals.
618.03.6 Access Breaks
Submit a written proposal on the “Request for Access Break Approval” form, available from the Project Manager, for temporary breaks in Interstate access control or R/W fences for approval. See the form for access breaks requiring FHWA approval. Include all information requested on the form. Interstate access breaks used for non-interstate contracts are prohibited. Provide a written narrative that describes how the traffic control plan addresses traffic safety and minimizes delay to the mainline traffic. Ensure the plan meets the MUTCD and the departments Detailed Drawings requirements. Do not begin work on the access break until the Department has returned an approved proposal. Obtain the Project Manager’s approval for all modifications to the original plan and submit the changes in writing. Excluding traffic control, assume all costs associated with construction, maintenance, removal of the access break, and restoration of the area once the access break is removed.
618.03.7 Crossing, Entering, and Using Roadways
A.General. Construct temporary approaches and crossings with 10H:1V side slopes and include drainage provisions. Remove all temporary approaches and median crossings once the work is complete. Restore and re-seed disturbed areas. Do not use areas within the R/W as borrow sources or disposal areas for the construction or restoration of temporary approaches. Provide the means and traffic control devices to allow safe crossings whenever articulated trucks, scrapers, and other off-highway vehicles are crossing the roadway being used by traffic as included in the traffic control plan and approved by the Project Manager in advance of operations. Operate registered and licensed hauling units, such as dump trucks, belly dumps, side dumps, etc. with the flow of traffic. Do not operate any hauling units on roadway shoulders.
B.Controlled Access and Multiple-lane Roadways. Use frontage roads and interchanges for equipment access to controlled access highways whenever possible. Do not stop the general traffic on one-way roadways for the convenience of haul units without Department approval. Use interchanges or a series of appropriate lane closures at authorized vehicle median crossings or temporary median crossings for haul-unit operations on one-way roadways. 618 – TRAFFIC CONTROL 2020 EDITION V5.1 618-6 Haul unit turning movements are restricted to right-turn movements only when there is access to the project by frontage roads or where left-turn movements by hauling units would pose a hazard to the traveling public. The use of authorized vehicle median crossings or temporary median crossings will not be allowed unless stated in the contract. If the construction of temporary median crossings is allowed as part of the contract, their use will be subject to all requirements of Submit an updated traffic control plan detailing the use of authorized vehicle median crossings or the construction of temporary median crossings, including the following:
1.The distance between any 2 median crossings, including interchanges, authorized vehicle median crossings, and temporary median crossings must be at least 2 miles (3.2 km) unless a shorter distance is approved by the Department.
2.Median crossings must be at least 1,000 feet (305 m) from structures and have a minimum 1,500 feet (458 m) of sight distance at 3.5 feet (1.1 m) above the pavement.
3.Sign median crossings as specified in the contract.
4.When not in use, protect crossings through median barriers by one of the following methods:
a.Place an approved impact attenuator at each end of the barrier opening.
b.Close the inside lanes to traffic with a controlled lane closure.
c.Close the opening by replacing and pinning the median barrier.
C.Two-lane Roadways. Always provide at least one functional lane for traffic. Meet Table 618-1 requirements. TABLE 618-1 TRAFFIC CONTROL REQUIREMENTS FOR HAULING UNITS ENTERING OR CROSSING 2-LANE ROADWAYS Average Daily Traffic (ADT)/Load Frequency Traffic Control Requirement less than 2,000 ADT stop hauling units for traffic 2,000 to 5,000 ADT/ Less than 50 loads per shift stop hauling units for traffic 2,000 to 5,000 ADT/ More than 50 loads per shift provide flaggers to control traffic more than 5,000 ADT provide flaggers to control traffic Limit the number of locations at which flagging is provided at roadway crossings, entrances or exits to:
1.One location per material source or plant site entrance or exit: or
2.Roadway crossings approved by the Project Manager in the Traffic Control Plan. The Project Manager may adjust the ADT or load frequency at which flagging is required in Table 618-1. The Project Manager may add or reduce flagging locations to ensure the safety and mobility of the traveling public and workers within the construction limits. Where flaggers are not required by Table 618-1, the Contractor may use flaggers and traffic control, with Project Manager approval, at the Contractor’s expense.
618.03.8 Traffic Control at Drop-off Areas
When existing slopes are 3H:1V or flatter, temporarily fill constructed drop-offs within 30 feet (9.2 m) of the edge of travel lanes used by traffic to a 3H:1V slope or flatter at the close of work 2020 EDITION V5.1 TRAFFIC CONTROL – 618 618-7 each day. Furnish and install, at Contractor expense, traffic control devices for slopes not temporarily filled to a 3H:1V or flatter. When existing slopes are steeper than 3H:1V, temporarily fill constructed drop-offs within 30 feet (9.2 m) of the edge of travel lanes used by traffic that matches or is flatter than the existing slope at the close of work each day. Furnish and install at Contractor expense, traffic control devices for slopes not temporarily filled to match, or that are steeper than the existing slope. Temporary filling of drop-offs protected by positive barriers is not required. Determine device spacing using the following formula: Factor in Feet (m) = (A x C x W) (S x D) Where: A = ADT adjustment C = Degree of Curvature (metric radius factor) W = Recoverable width, 4H:1V or flatter, in feet (m) from the drop-off to the far edge of the adjacent traffic lane(s) with the same direction of traffic S = Posted speed in MPH (km/h) D = Average drop-off depth in inches (mm) Use the C factors in Table 618-2 for drop-offs outside of horizontal curves. TABLE 618-2 C - FACTORS FOR DROP-OFFS ON THE OUTSIDE OF HORIZONTAL CURVES Degree of Curve (English Radius) C Metric Radius C less than 2 (greater than 2,865 feet) 5,800 greater than 900 m 241,000 2 to less than 4 (2,865 feet to greater than 1,433 feet) 5,200 900 m to more than 450 m 218,000 4 to less than 6 (1,433 feet to greater than 955 feet) 4,900 450 m to more than 300 m 203,000 6 or greater (955 feet or less) 4,500 300 m or less 188,00 Use the C - factor for curves with a degree of curve less than 2 (greater than 900 m) for drop- offs on the inside of horizontal curves. Use the ADT adjustment from Table 618-3. 618 – TRAFFIC CONTROL 2020 EDITION V5.1 618-8 TABLE 618-3 ADT ADJUSTMENT FACTOR ADT A under 750 1.50 750 – 1,499 1.30 1,500 – 5,999 1.00 over 6,000 0.90 Round the computed spacing to the nearest 10 feet (3 m). Use Table 618-4 to determine the device type using the spacing factor. TABLE 618-4 TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICE BASED ON SPACING FACTOR Spacing Factor Device Type 400 feet (122 m) or greater Flexible guideposts or standard delineators 20 to 390 feet (6 to 119 m) Type 2 object marker Less than 20 feet (6 m) Positive barrier, if 48 hours lapses before filling Space devices at the spacing factor. If W is less than 14 feet (4 m), do not exceed spacing in feet that is double the posted speed in miles per hour.
618.03.9 Traffic Control for Paving and Milling Operations
Provide flaggers at paving and milling machines. Locate the flagger 100 to 150 feet (30 to 46 m) upstream from the machines. Meet the following requirements for night paving operations: • Place a 48 x 48-inch (1,220 x 1,220 mm) “NIGHT PAVING AHEAD” warning sign in advance of each warning sign series. • Ensure all personnel working on or adjacent to traveled lanes are wearing Class 3 apparel in accordance with Subsection 107.06. Apply temporary striping in accordance with Subsection 620.03.5. Place temporary striping at the end of each working day in which a full width section is completed before opening to traffic. Do not use lane closures in place of temporary striping. Traffic control beyond the end of the work day, unless ordered by the Project Manager, is at Contractor expense. The Project Manager may suspend paving operations if a lack of temporary striping results in lane closures longer than the length of a day’s paving.
618.03.10 Reserved
618.03.11 Traffic Control for Seal Coat Operations
A.Two-lane Two-way and Multiple-lane Two-way Roadways. Place “LOOSE GRAVEL” (W8-7), “DO NOT PASS” (R4-1), and “SPEED LIMIT 35” (R2-1) signs, at the beginning of each work zone. Place the same sign combination for each direction of travel at 2-mile (3.2 km) intervals within the work zone. Remove “LOOSE GRAVEL” (W8-7) signs once loose cover material is swept. Leave remaining signs in place until pavement markings within the zone are completed. Control traffic with pilot cars until initial sweeping is completed for a maximum of 72 hours. The 72-hour period associated with pilot car use for each section begins once the 2020 EDITION V5.1 TRAFFIC CONTROL – 618 618-9 seal and cover has been placed and rolling is complete. For this work, a section is defined as the area of seal coat completed in each day of production. Traffic control beyond these 72 hours, unless ordered by the Project Manager, is at Contractor expense.
B.Interstate Highways. Use lane closures and lane control devices for seal and cover operations on Interstate highways. Do not use pilot cars unless approved by the Project Manager. Place “LOOSE GRAVEL” (W8-7) and “SPEED LIMIT 45” (R2-1) signs at the beginning of each work zone. Sign both sides of the roadway. Place the same sign combination at 2-mile (3.2 km) intervals within the work zone. Remove “LOOSE GRAVEL” (W8-7) and “SPEED LIMIT 45” (R2-1) signs once loose cover material is swept. Traffic control beyond these 72 hours, unless ordered by the Project Manager, is at Contractor expense.
618.03.12 Traffic Control for Striping and Sweeping Operations
Provide the following traffic control for striping and final sweep and broom operations not performed under closed lane or pilot car situations.
1.Furnish and operate a shadow vehicle equipped with a truck or trailer -mounted attenuator in accordance with Subsection 618.02 conforming to appropriate test levels. Position the truck to follow within 150 to 1,000 feet (45 - 305 m) on pavement marking removal and application and sweeping and brooming. When placing or removing traffic cones that protect the pavement markings, use a vehicle with a truck-mounted attenuator or follow with a shadow vehicle possessing a truck mounted attenuator.
2.Equip shadow vehicles with an arrow board facing rear-approaching traffic.
a.On multiple-lane roadways, place the arrow board display in lane shift mode (sequential arrow mode).
b.On two-lane two-way roadways, place the arrow board in a hazard warning mode not displaying the lane-shift mode.
3.If peak hours are specified in the contract, provide the Project Manager with a schedule of striping and final sweep and broom operations at least 48 hours prior to work. Perform work during off-peak hours in order to minimize impacts to the traveling public unless approved differently by the Project Manager.
4.For Striping operations, include all costs associated with this work in the striping bid item.
5.P rovide a WN identifying the proposed traffic control devices to be used for striping or final sweep and broom operations. If the Contractor and Project Manager agree that additional traffic control devices not listed in items 1 through 3 are warranted; the additional traffic control devices will be measured and paid in accordance with Subsections 618.04 and 618.05 . Failure to properly notify the Project Manager or provide adequate traffic control renders the striping or final sweep and broom operation unacceptable and unauthorized. Unacceptable or unauthorized work will be addressed in accordance with Subsection 105.12.
618.03.13 Traffic Control Device Location and Installation
Lay out the standard distances for traffic control devices to within an accuracy ± 5%. The Project Manager may direct adjustments to the device locations to fit site conditions. Display all signs with the legend not more than 5° (1-inch per foot) (25 mm per 305 mm) from the horizontal plane. 618 – TRAFFIC CONTROL 2020 EDITION V5.1 618-10 Display the signs at the required mounting height with the hinged signs closed or non-hinged signs removed when not applicable. The bottom of signs mounted on barricades or other portable devices must be at least 1-foot (305 mm) above the shoulder of the travelled way. Use only one type of reflective sheeting in each sequence or group of signs or devices. Stabilize sign trailers to prevent movement by wind or passing vehicles. Mount work zone traffic control signs to posts when they are to remain at the same location for more than 3 consecutive days. Trailer-mounted W20-7a (flagger ahead) signs with generators are excluded from this requirement. Ensure the G20-1 (ROAD WORK NEXT (X) MILES) and G20-2 (END ROAD WORK) signs do not conflict with other construction signing. Remove these signs when no longer necessary or when directed by the Project Manager. Install work zone traffic control devices sequentially toward the work area beginning with the device located farthest from the work area. Remove sequentially in the opposite direction. Use arrow boards in the sequential or flashing-arrow mode to supplement channelizing devices and standard signing when one or more lanes of a multiple-lane roadway are closed. Do not use arrow boards in the sequential or flashing-arrow mode for lane closures or at flag stations on two-lane two-way roadways. Flexible reflectorized warning signs are acceptable for daylight hour use. Do not use traffic cones for channelization devices. Do not use steel barrels for work zone traffic control. Ensure that construction zone and work zone speed limits signs comply with the desired minimum speed limit values in Table 618-5. The Project Manager may direct adjustments to the speed limits or device locations to fit the conditions. Submit a written recommendation if the Contractor’s proposed limits differ from those in Table 618-5. Give the locations and reasons for limits differing from those provided in Table 618-
5.Reasons should be based upon the conditions of the roadway and the ability of traffic to flow safely and uniformly through the construction zone or activity area. The Project Manager will provide a written response to the recommendation, detailing the speed limit signs to be used. 2020 EDITION V5.1 TRAFFIC CONTROL – 618 618-11 TABLE 618-5 TRAFFIC CONTROL SPEED LIMITS IN CONSTRUCTION ZONES Speed Limit Activity Description Existing -Construction activities are 30 feet (9.2 m) beyond the edge of the traveled way and construction vehicles are not crossing the traveled way. -Construction activities suspended during winter suspension or prolonged periods of time, based upon roadway conditions. -Holiday weekends and no work days when work is not in progress and PTW has not been impacted. -Interstate merging tapers. -Survey crew activities not on the PTW or parking shoulder. 65 mph -Two-lane two-way traffic on interstates. -One-lane one-way traffic on interstates with no activities in closed lane. 55-65 mph -One-lane one-way traffic on interstates with activities encroaching on closed lane. -Two-lane two-way non-interstate traffic traveling on non-impacted roadway surfaces when construction activities are suspended or not present, based upon roadway conditions. 45-55 mph -Interstate crossovers. -Two-lane two-way non-interstate traffic traveling on impacted roadway surfaces when construction activities are suspended or not present, based upon roadway conditions. -Two and four-lane roadways with construction activities within the clear zone but not encroaching on the shoulders and/or driving lanes. 45 mph -Seal coat operations on interstates, increased to 55 mph once initial brooming roadway is completed. -Interstate roadways with construction activities on shoulders of a live lane. 35 mph -Seal coat operations on two-lane two-way and multiple-lane two-way roadways, increased to 45 mph once initial brooming roadway completed. -In advance of flagging stations or temporary traffic signals. -Interstate and multiple-lane roadways with construction activities in closed lane(s) when workers are present. -Two-lane two-way roadways with construction activities on shoulders. 25 mph -Temporary diversions on graveled surfaces. -Pilot car queues. -Survey crew activities within the traveled way. (non-interstate) -Two or multiple-lane roadways in an urban area with construction activity in a lane, when workers are present.
618.03.14 Flagging Operations
Provide flaggers that are currently certified by the Montana flagger training program, the ATSSA flagger program, or Idaho, Oregon, or Washington state flagger training programs. 618 – TRAFFIC CONTROL 2020 EDITION V5.1 618-12 Flaggers are required to carry proof of flagger certification and present it to the Project Manager when requested. Provide flaggers that are competent and equipped as required in the Department’s Flaggers Handbook furnished by the Department. Maintain constant radio contact between flaggers at each end of a work zone and pilot vehicles when visual contact is not possible. Use two-way V.H.F. or U.H.F. FM radios, operable in the terrain. Place the W20-7a (flagger ahead) warning sign signals so the LEDs are visible 1,000 feet (305 m) in advance of the sign. Place and operate the sign only when a flagger is at the flag station. Provide a second flagger when more than 10 vehicles are stopped at a flag station 50% of the time to advise traffic of the delay. Place an additional W20-7a sign 500 to 1,000 feet (153 to 305 m) ahead of the average end of the stopped vehicle line.
A.Nighttime Flagging Requirements. Nighttime flagging operations are those that occur from sunset to sunrise. Provide the following enhancements when nighttime flagging is used:
1.Illuminated Flagging Stations. Furnish portable balloon light(s) to illuminate flagging stations meeting the requirements of Subsection 210.03.8. Locate the illumination source so as not to create a hazard to the travelling public and to minimize glare to oncoming drivers. Shield light as necessary to prevent overflow onto adjacent properties.
2.Illuminated Flagger Paddles. Flagging paddles must be of octagonal shape at least 18 inches (455 mm) wide with letters at least 6 inches (150 mm) high, fixed to a rigid handle. Use signs having red colored flashing LED lights inside the STOP face and amber colored flashing lights inside the SLOW face, having a flash rate of 50 to 60 flashes per minute. The power source must be fully enclosed within the pole section. LED arrangement must meet any of the following arrangements:
a.Two white or red lights, 1 centered vertically above and 1 centered vertically below the STOP legend; and/or 2 white or yellow lights, 1 centered vertically above and 1 centered vertically below the SLOW legend.
b.Two white or red lights, 1 centered horizontally on each side of the STOP legend; and/or 2 white or yellow lights, 1 centered horizontally on each side of the SLOW legend.
c.One white or red light centered below the STOP legend; and/or 1 white or yellow light centered below the SLOW legend.
d.A series of 8 or more small white or red lights no larger than ¼ inch in diameter along the outer edge of the paddle, arranged in an octagonal pattern at the 8 corners of the border of the STOP face; and/ or a series of 8 or more small white or yellow lights no larger than ¼ inch in diameter along the outer edge of the paddle, arranged in a diamond pattern along the border of the SLOW face; or
e.A series of white lights forming the shapes of the letters in the legend.
3.Garments. Use high visibility safety apparel that meets the Performance Class 3 requirements of the current ANSI/SEA 107 publication entitled American National Standard for High-Visibility Safety Apparel and Headwear. Hard hats must be illuminated and visible in all directions for 1000 feet. 2020 EDITION V5.1 TRAFFIC CONTROL – 618 618-13
5.Temporary Transverse Portable Rumble Strips. Place 3 temporary transverse portable rumble strips in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations based on the posted speed limit at the location of the W3-4 “Be Prepared to Stop” sign. Use temporary transverse portable rumble strips that meet the following:
a.Provide significant audible and vibratory alerts to drivers.
b.Dimensions are a minimum of 10 feet (3 m) long, 1-foot (305 mm) wide and ¾-inch (19 mm) thick.
c.Maintains rigidity with no curling.
d.A bevel on the leading edge within the range of 11-13 degrees.
e.Made of flexible polymer material with a non-slip surface.
f.Able to function on wet surfaces; and
g.Capable of being installed and removed without any auxiliary equipment or machinery.
618.03.15 Pilot Car Operations
Use pilot cars as specified. Equip the cars with amber flashing lights and the G20-4 sign designated in Part VI of the MUTCD. Mount the sign in a conspicuous position on the vehicle with the bottom sign edge at least 6 feet (1.8 m) above the ground. Schedule and cycle pilot vehicles to depart each flag station at maximum 15-minute intervals.
618.03.16 Dust Control
Furnish water, liquid magnesium, liquid calcium chloride, or other dust palliative approved by the Project Manager. Furnish, haul, and apply dust control using tank trucks equipped with spray systems that uniformly distribute the dust control over the application area. Control dust for the protection and safety of traffic, for abatement of air pollution, or for other purposes, apply enough to eliminate the dust. Control dust with a method that does not adversely affect the constructed roadway elements. Meet the requirements of subsection 104.05 . Dust control is not measured for payment.
618.04 Method of Measurement
The contract quantities for traffic control devices are an estimate only and may vary from the actual quantities used or required in the contract. Signs and devices must meet the “acceptable” category outlined in Subsection 618.03.5 to be measured for payment. Failure to adequately maintain and clean traffic control devices in use renders the traffic control operation unacceptable. The Contractor, upon receiving written and verbal notification, will be given 24 hours to make the traffic control operation compliant. Traffic Control directly affecting the safety of the public must be attended to immediately. The Project Manager may apply deducts as shown below due to traffic control operations not meeting the requirements set forth in Section 618 . • 10% of the daily traffic control units or $500 per calendar day, whichever is greater. • $500 per day for lump sum contracts. Failure to submit an updated traffic control plan on time and in the manner required is cause for the Project Manager to suspend work. The Department may withhold 10% of each monthly progress estimate for failure to submit an updated traffic control plan on time and in the manner required. Payment withheld for violation of the traffic control plan requirements will be included in 618 – TRAFFIC CONTROL 2020 EDITION V5.1 618-14 the next progress estimate following the Contractor’s submission and the Project Manager’s approval of the updated traffic control plan. Providing the traffic control plan is incidental to and included in payment for the traffic control bid item.
618.04.1 Traffic Control - Units
Traffic control devices are measured by the units of traffic control devices used and accepted. A unit of traffic control device is the base value used for establishing the relative value of each type of traffic control device. The relative value of each traffic control device in units is shown in the Traffic Control Rate Schedule.
618.04.2 Traffic Control - Lump Sum
Traffic control is measured by the Lump Sum. Provide a written request for compensation resulting from a change in scope of work, differing site conditions or additional work. Quantities approved by any requested change will be measured by the units of traffic control devices used and accepted.
618.04.3 Flagging
Flagging is measured by the hour for the actual number of approved flagging hours provided on the project for each flagger used. Travel time for flaggers to and from the project is not measured for payment.
618.04.4 Pilot Car Operation
Pilot car operation is measured by the hour for the approved number of hours of operation for each properly equipped pilot car.
618.04.5 Reserved
618.04.6 Items Not Eligible for Separate Payment
The following items are not measured or paid for separately: • Amber flashing or strobe lights on equipment, vehicles, and hauling units. • Impact attenuators for median barrier openings not shown in the contract. • Permits and costs relating to project access. • Construction, drainage, maintenance, removal, restoration, and reseeding of areas used for temporary roads, approaches, and crossovers. • Radios for flaggers and pilot vehicles. • Illumination of work areas. • Reflectorized safety equipment, garments, and headgear. • Vehicle-mounted arrow boards on stripers and shadow vehicles. • Replacing temporary pavement marking tabs and tape destroyed by traffic. • Temporary pavement marking tabs used for seal coat operations. • Costs to clean and maintain installed traffic control devices. • Devices not properly maintained. • Devices placed beyond 1,500 feet (458 m) of the work termination point for that day. • Adjustments or moving of devices that were initially installed improperly. • Adjustments or moving of devices solely to aid contractor operations, such as temporarily relocating devices to allow equipment access. • Additional traffic control costs resulting from corrective actions on items failing to meet contract requirements. • Traffic Control at commercial pits; and 2020 EDITION V5.1 TRAFFIC CONTROL – 618 618-15 • Other miscellaneous materials and equipment required for proper traffic control that are not included in the Traffic Control Rate Schedule.
618.05 Basis of Payment
Payment for the completed and accepted quantities is made under the following: Pay Item Pay Unit Traffic Control Unit Traffic Control Lump Sum
618.05.1 Traffic Control – Units
Traffic control devices are paid for at the contract unit price per unit of traffic control devices. The units of each type of traffic control device paid for are calculated by multiplying the measured quantity of each device by the value per each unit shown in the traffic control rate schedule. Payment for traffic control devices is made for each setup directed by the Project Manager. Replacing properly installed traffic control devices destroyed by traffic is paid for at the contract unit price per unit of traffic control devices. Payment for barricades and drums includes the required ballast. Payment for signs mounted on barricades is made only for the original mounting. Payment for flashing arrow boards is made only for the actual hours of operation approved by the Project Manager. Payment includes the cost of operating the trucks or trailers on which the arrow boards are mounted. Store devices in approved staging areas with a maximum of one staging area per 3-mile segment of roadway. Detail the staging areas in the traffic control plan submitted for the Project Manager’s approval. All devices not stored in the approved staging areas will be paid for at Category #2 payment amounts. Payment for traffic control devices will be made in accordance with one of the following two categories:
A.Category #1 - Standard Installation. The following movements constitute a “standard installation”: • Initial device placement and setup. • Device relocation and setup requiring the device be loaded into, or hitched to, a truck or vehicle for movement to a new location.
B.Category #2 - Adjustments. The manual moving of a device, conducted by dragging, carrying, etc. of the device, required to move it to a new location of a traffic control operation. Payment for traffic control devices will be paid for at the rates listed in Table 618-6 according to the category and device type. TABLE 618-6 TRAFFIC CONTROL RATES BASED ON CATEGORY AND DEVICE TYPE Category # Device Payment amount percent 1 All Category 1 devices 100 2 Type III barricades 25 2 All other Category 2 devices 50 618 – TRAFFIC CONTROL 2020 EDITION V5.1 618-16
618.05.2 Traffic Control – Lump Sum
Payment for all costs associated with performing traffic control is included in the lump sum bid for Traffic Control. Payment for quantities approved by any requested change will be in accordance with the Traffic Control Rate Schedule and will be paid under Traffic Control - Fixed. Partial payments for Traffic Control will be monthly based on the lump sum contract price at the rates listed in Table 618-7. TABLE 618-7 TRAFFIC CONTROL - LUMP SUM PROGRESS PAYMENTS Progress Estimate Payment Percent Of Lump Sum Item First partial payment after start of contract work 35 Estimate paying 25% of original contract amount 25 Estimate paying 50% of original contract amount 20 Estimate paying 75% of original contract amount 10 Final partial payment after Conditional final acceptance date Remainder of traffic control contract price
Referenced in this section
Traffic Control in other states
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Source: Standard Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction, 2020 (v5.1) Edition. Pages 471–486 of 611. View official source ↗