TRAFFIC CONTROL
PART 1 GENERAL
1.1SECTION INCLUDES
A.Temporary traffic control requirements for managing vehicular, bicyclist,
and pedestrian traffic with attentiveness to the safety and efficiency of the public traveling through construction zones.
1.2RELATED SECTIONS
A.Section 00555: Prosecution and Progress
B.Section 01558: Temporary Pavement Markings
C.Section 02844: Concrete Barrier
D.Section 02890: Retroreflective Sheeting
E.Section 02891: Traffic Signs
F.Section 06055: Timber and Timber Treatment
1.3REFERENCES
A.AASHTO Policy on Geometric Design of Highways and Streets
B.AASHTO Roadside Design Guide
C.American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
D.American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA)
E.Americans with Disabilities Act
F.ASTM C 1107: Packaged Dry, Hydraulic-Cement Grout (Non-shrink)
G.ASTM D 8260: Hot-Applied Asphalt Aggregate-Filled Mastic
H.Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) Standard on Vehicle Traffic
Control Signal Heads
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I.International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA)
J.Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD)
K.Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices - Utah Supplement
L.MASH: AASHTO Manual for Assessing Safety Hardware
M.National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) TS 5: Portable
Traffic Signal Systems (PTSS) Standard
N.NCHRP Report 350: Recommended Procedures for the Safety
Performance Evaluation of Highway Features
O.UDOT Flagger Training Handbook
P.UDOT Guidelines for Barrier and Attenuator Systems
Q.UDOT Quality Guidelines for Temporary Traffic Control Devices
R.UDOT Sign Manual
S.UDOT Standard Highway Signs Supplement
T.UDOT Traffic Management System User Guide
1.4DEFINITIONS
A.Automated Flagger Assistance Device (AFAD) – A remotely operated
temporary traffic control device with high-visibility signage, signal heads, and automated flags. These devices are intended to direct and control traffic using at least one certified flagger.
B.Connected Arrow Board (CAB) – Internet-enabled device capable of
reporting real-time lane closures and location information.
C.Portable Changeable Message Signs (PCMS) – Are devices installed for
temporary use with the flexibility to display a variety of messages.
D.Preconstruction Posted Speed Limit – The permanent posted speed limit
before construction activities begin.
E.Temporary Pedestrian Access Route (TPAR) – A temporary MUTCD-
compliant detectable pedestrian route that is provided when existing routes are disrupted, closed, or relocated.
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F.Temporary Portable Traffic Signal System (TPTSS) – A complete and
functional traffic signal system deployed in the field that manages the movement of vehicular traffic, pedestrian traffic, or both in a particular place for a particular purpose.
G.Traffic Slow Down – An isolated planned event where traffic speed is
reduced to provide a gap for work to proceed.
1.5SUBMITTALS
A.Traffic control plan for review, including:
1.Traffic control measures for each phase of work with attentiveness
to safe and efficient movement of traffic, pedestrians, and bicycles during construction.
a.Equipment, devices, and implementation instructions.
2.Work elements for each phase.
3.Planned traffic control changes for the duration of the project.
4.Duration of each traffic control configuration.
5.Length of Need (LON) for temporary barriers.
6.Taper lengths, lane shift widths, device spacing, and sign locations
for temporary and existing signs.
7.Removal of traffic control elements that conflict with temporary
traffic control measures, such as existing traffic signs and traffic signals.
8.Worker parking, work vehicle access, and equipment access.
9.TPAR and associated devices.
10.Temporary paving, pavement markings, drainage, and lighting.
11.Temporary traffic signal plans and list of proposed equipment.
a.Red, yellow, and green times and basis of timing
calculations.
B.Supporting engineering calculations.
C.Drawings and calculations sealed by a Professional Engineer licensed in
the State of Utah.
D.Traffic Control Inspection Form, submitted weekly at a day and time
acceptable to the Engineer, for information.
E.Request for approval of Traffic Slow Down
1.Include:
a.The route number.
b.The beginning and ending mileposts.
c.Direction of the Traffic Slow Down.
d.The date, beginning time, and duration of the Traffic Slow
Down. Traffic Control
F.Traffic Control Supervisor (TCS) certification for the Traffic Control
Supervisor role, for information.
G.Traffic Control Technician (TCT) certification of completion for all
personnel under the supervision of the TCS, for information.
H.Current flagger certification, for information.
I.TPTSS manufacturer’s signal training program certificate of completion,
for information.
1.Certificates of completion from the TPTSS manufacturer are valid
for three years from date of issue.
J.AFAD type and manufacturer’s training program certificate of completion,
for information.
1.Certificates of completion from the AFAD manufacturer are valid for
three years from date of issue.
K.Temporary barrier system documentation, for information:
1.TL-3 MASH certificates of compliance.
2.Manufacturer's installation instructions and procedures.
3.Request to use barrier system not listed, for approval. Refer to this
Section, Article 2.3C.
L.CAB type and manufacturer for information.
1.Notify the Control Room manager (tc-controlroom@utah.gov) at
least two weeks before CAB use.
M.Request for approval of moving operations, including duration and time-of-
day window.
N.Request for approval of regulatory and advisory speed reductions to
obtain a Traffic Engineering Order (TEO).
1.6DEVICE CRASHWORTHINESS
A.Crashworthiness requirements.
1.Devices are required to meet MASH crashworthiness criteria or
have a current Department Certification Letter.
B.Devices in the following FHWA device category are required to meet
crashworthiness requirements:
1.Category 1 – drums and delineators
2.Category 2 – barricades and sign stands
3.Category 3 – barriers, crash cushions and truck mounted
attenuators Traffic Control
4.Category 4 – arrow boards and PCMS
a.Category 4 devices are certified by a Department
Certification Letter.
C.Department Certified devices can be found at
http://www.udot.utah.gov/go/standardsreferences.
1.7TRAFFIC CONTROL REQUIREMENTS
A.Meet the following requirements for traffic control and document them in
the traffic control plan:
1.Meet the requirements in the TC Series Standard Drawings,
MUTCD, MUTCD - Utah Supplement, the UDOT Sign Manual, the UDOT Standard Highway Signs Supplement, AASHTO Policy on Geometric Design of Highways and Streets, and the Americans with Disabilities Act.
2.Maintain attentiveness to the safe and efficient movement of traffic.
a.Use AASHTO Policy on Geometric Design of Highways and
Streets to design modifications to roadway curve alignments. The design speed may be reduced as follows: 1) The design speed for horizontal curves may be reduced by 10 MPH from the Pre-Construction Posted Speed Limit.
b.Address expected delay with the Project Public Involvement
Team or the Region Communications Manager if the project does not have a Public Involvement Team.
3.Maintain attentiveness to the safe and efficient movement of
pedestrians and cyclists when existing facilities are disrupted, closed or relocated by a work zone.
a.Provide detectable temporary facilities that include
accessibility features consistent with the features present in the existing pedestrian facility.
b.Temporary removal of parking may be allowed with approval
of local agencies and coordination with Project Public Involvement to provide a temporary bikeway.
c.Pedestrian detour length should not exceed original
pedestrian route length by more than half of a mile.
d.Bike detour length should not exceed original bike route
length by more than one mile.
4.Provide roadside barriers, crash cushions and attenuators
including:
a.Protection as required for hazard mitigation for workers.
Refer to TC Series Standard Drawings.
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b.Protect all hazards within the appropriate AASHTO clear
zone including bridge parapets, barrier blunt ends, poles, and large equipment. Refer to the UDOT Guidelines for Barrier and Attenuator Systems for acceptable devices. http://www.udot.utah.gov/go/standardsreferences.
c.Refer to BA Series Standard Drawings for barrier deflection.
5.Provide temporary pavement markings. Refer to Section 01558.
a.Remove any pavement markings that conflict with pavement
markings needed to control traffic through the work zone.
b.Use temporary pavement marking tape when traffic is in a
temporary configuration on the final riding surface.
6.Incorporate proposed traffic signal timing, phasing, and detection
plans if the operation or equipment of permanent traffic signals will be impacted by construction.
a.Coordinate with the Engineer and the Region for
requirements for determining signal needs if working in a signalized intersection.
7.Lane widths may be reduced as follows:
a.Preconstruction posted speed limit less than 50 mph,
minimum lane width 10 ft.
b.Preconstruction posted speed limit of 50 mph or greater,
minimum lane width 11 ft.
8.Shoulder widths may be reduced as follows:
a.Minimum shoulder width 2 ft, as measured from the near
side of the channelizing device, roadside barrier, or edge of pavement to the travel lane’s edge.
9.Provide locations for construction access points for trucks and
equipment.
a.Select locations with required sight distance and ease of
access for entering vehicles.
b.Avoid locations just beyond the crest of vertical curves, on
structures, or ascending grades.
c.Provide adequate deceleration and acceleration lanes for
construction vehicles to enter and exit the highway lanes 1) Refer to TC Drawing Series for minimum required deceleration and acceleration lengths.
10.Provide PCMS and identify the location, intended use, and
message(s) to be used.
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1.8TRAFFIC CONTROL SUPERVISOR
A.Provide a traffic control supervisor to install, maintain, and remove
temporary traffic control devices according to the authorized traffic control plan.
B.Qualifications:
1.Certified as a Traffic Control Supervisor by a Department approved
Traffic Control Supervisor Training Program.
a.A list of approved training providers is available at
http://www.udot.utah.gov/go/standardsreferences
C.Authority:
1.Provide supervision over the labor, equipment, and materials
necessary to maintain traffic control.
D.Responsibilities and Duties:
1.Oversee traffic control operations and TPAR devices.
2.Be present and an active participant during the installation,
maintenance, and removal of temporary traffic control devices.
3.Implement the authorized traffic control plan.
4.Remain available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and can be on-
site within 30 minutes of notification.
5.Correct deficiencies upon notification from the Engineer.
6.Manage traffic control inspections.
7.Change traffic control operations according to the authorized traffic
control plan, except for any adjustment to timing, phasing, or detection, or any other settings in the signal controller for permanent or temporary traffic signals.
8.Change traffic control operations immediately if they are required to
make the work zone safe for workers or the traveling public.
a.Notify the Engineer immediately if the traffic control
operations deviate from the authorized traffic control plans.
9.Coordinate project traffic control with emergency services and local
law enforcement agencies.
10.Adjust the TPAR devices to maintain a detectable route that is
consistent with the accessibility present in the existing pedestrian facility.
11.Adjust the location and edit the message of the PCMS as shown in
the traffic control plan.
a.Promptly replace malfunctioning LEDs or panels to maintain
message legibility.
12.Indicate lane and road closures and openings real time using the
UDOT Field app.
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1.9FLAGGERS AND TRAFFIC CONTROL TECHNICIANS
A.Flaggers must have a current flagging certificate and must present proof
of certification upon request by the Department.
1.Refer to http://www.udot.utah.gov/go/standardsreferences for a list
of acceptable courses taught by certified instructors.
B.Traffic Control Technician (TCT) must have passed an approved TCT
course.
1.Refer to http://www.udot.utah.gov/go/standardsreferences for a list
of acceptable courses taught by certified instructors.
2.May perform the installation, maintenance, removal of devices, and
sign inspections under the authority of the TCS.
1.10PRICE ADJUSTMENTS
A.The Department reduces compensation when traffic control is not in
compliance with the authorized traffic control plan or when the Contractor fails to meet all requirements cited or referenced in this Section.
1.The amount per day by which the Contractor’s compensation will
be reduced is calculated using the Contract lump sum bid price for Traffic Control divided by the number of contract days.
1.11TEMPORARY PORTABLE TRAFFIC SIGNAL SYSTEM (TPTSS) TRAINING
A.The setup, programming, signal timing changes, maintenance, and repairs
of a TPTSS must be performed by at least one person who has successfully completed a signal training program for the TPTSS in use.
1.12AUTOMATED FLAGGER ASSISTANCE DEVICE (AFAD) TRAINING
A.The setup, operation, maintenance, and repair of the AFAD must be
performed by a person who has successfully completed a training program for the AFADs in use.
1.13MOVING OPERATIONS
A.Refer to TC Series Standard Drawings.
B.Obtain approval from the Engineer for all moving operations.
C.Pull over the work and shadow vehicles periodically to allow vehicular
traffic to pass where practical and when needed.
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D.Adhere to the following durations of moving operations:
1.Single-lane moving operations on a two-lane two-way road not to
exceed 10 minutes at any one location
2.Moving operations involving the closure of one or more lanes on
multilane highways at any one location not to exceed 1 hour
E.Use overhead variable message signs for advance notification when
available. Coordinate with the Traffic Operations Center (TOC) at (801) 887-3700 at least 72 hours before use.
F.Use two additional truck mounted arrow boards with a Truck Mounted
Attenuator (TMA) for each additional lane closed.
1.Place one truck straddling the lane and one centered in the closed
lane to create a tapering effect for the lane being closed.
PART 2 PRODUCTS
2.1PILOT CAR
A.Equip with a retroreflective sign.
1.Refer to Section 02890.
2.MUTCD sign G20-4.
B.Equip with at least two rotating, oscillating, or strobe lights.
1.Minimum 4-inch diameter/width and minimum 6 ft mounting height.
2.Yellow color.
2.2FLAGGER EQUIPMENT AND CLOTHING
A.Refer to the UDOT Flagger Training Handbook.
http://www.udot.utah.gov/go/standardsreferences.
B.Safety Clothing
1.Flagger vest and hard hat – Orange, red-orange, or fluorescent
version of these colors.
a.Wear safety apparel meeting the requirements of ANSI/ISEA
"American National Standard for High-Visibility Apparel and Headwear" or equivalent revisions and labeled as meeting the current ANSI/ISEA publication year, standard performance for Class 3 risk exposure.
b.Hard hat with 10 square inches of white or strong yellow-
green retroreflective tape placed around the base of the hard hat and visible to traffic from all directions.
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2.3TRAFFIC CONTROL SIGNING AND DEVICES
A.Signs
1.Retroreflective sheeting, refer to Section 02890.
2.Refer to Section 02891
3.Refer to TC Series Standard Drawings.
4.Refer to SN Series Standard Drawings when using post mounted
signs.
5.Timber sign post. Refer to Section 06055.
B.Channelizing Devices
1.Refer to TC Series Standard Drawings.
2.Refer to Section 02890.
C.Temporary Barrier Systems
1.Use barrier systems from the Guidelines for Barrier and Attenuator
Systems: http://www.udot.utah.gov/go/standardsreferences
a.Submit request to use barrier systems not listed
2.All barrier systems must:
a.Meet TL3 or higher MASH test compliant certification.
b.Mitigate and account for associated system deflection rates
for each system type.
c.Provide transitions to the 32-inch F-shape barrier and UDOT
approved crash cushions from the Guidelines Barrier and Attenuator Systems: http://www.udot.utah.gov/go/standardsreferences
3.Refer to Section 02844.
4.Refer to BA Series Standard Drawings.
5.Composite barrier
a.Stabilization pins for composite barriers may be used in any
pavement surface, but not in bridge decks, approach slabs, or culverts.
b.Refer to manufacturer’s instructions and procedures
6.Precast Concrete Barrier
a.Stabilization pins for temporary precast concrete barriers
may be used in any pavement surface, but not in bridge decks, approach slabs, or culverts.
b.Transitions to cast in place and precast concrete barriers
refer to BA Series Standard Drawings.
7.Temporary Steel Barrier
a.Stabilization pins for temporary steel barriers may be used in
any pavement surface, but not in bridge decks, approach slabs, or culverts.
b.Refer to manufacturer’s instructions and procedures
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D.Use a Truck Mounted Attenuator (TMA) rated for the preconstruction
posted speed limit.
1.MASH Test Level 2 for speeds 45 mph or less.
2.MASH Test Level 3 for speeds greater than 45 mph.
2.4CONNECTED ARROW BOARDS (CAB)
A.Refer to the TC Series Standard Drawings, the MUTCD, and the Utah
MUTCD Supplement.
B.Use CABs that provide real-time lane closure and location information and
communicate with the TOC and third-party vendors for Mapping, Navigation, Connected Vehicles, etc.
1.Provide CABs that provide data that can be used in USDOT
Connected Work Zone Standard format (previously known as FHWA’s Work Zone Data Exchange), and have the capability to meet the following communication requirements:
a.Connection to remote monitoring software.
b.Remote monitoring software must provide real-time
information to the TOC.
c.Display changes must be transmitted within 2 minutes of the
associated CAB status change.
2.Arrow boards used for mobile operations or mounted with truck
mounted attenuators do not need to be connected.
2.5TEMPORARY WALKWAY AND RAMPS
A.Refer to TC Series Standard Drawings, the MUTCD, and the MUTCD -
Utah Supplement.
2.6TEMPORARY PORTABLE TRAFFIC SIGNAL SYSTEM (TPTSS)
A.MUTCD-compliant.
B.Manufactured according to the latest edition of NEMA TS 5.
C.Trailer
1.General
a.Self-contained trailer-mounted unit, consisting of at least two
signal heads per trailer. 1) At least one signal head mounted on an overhead mast arm capable of extending over the travel lane. 2) One signal head mounted on a vertical upright.
b.Safety orange color finish.
2.Accessories
a.Removable or lockable self-storing tongue.
Traffic Control
b.Lifting ring that is integral to the TPTSS trailer and
structurally sufficient to facilitate the lifting and placing of a fully equipped TPTSS trailer.
c.Four stabilizer jacks rated for the full anticipated load.
3.Power
a.Batteries sufficient to operate the signal for a minimum of 21
days at temperatures of 50 degrees F or higher without supplemental charging.
b.Equipped with a charging system for solar collection
capability, and an onboard battery charger capable of being used with a 120VAC power source.
4.Wind Load
a.The TPTSS trailer and all mounted equipment must
withstand winds of 90 mph.
D.Lift System
1.Equipped with a hydraulic lift system sufficient to raise and lower
the vertical upright and horizontal mast arm to and from the operating position.
2.Overhead mast arm and signal head bracket must allow a minimum
vertical clearance of 17.5 ft measured from the bottom of the lowest portion of the signal head or bracket to the road surface.
E.Signal Heads
1.Use 12-inch LED indications, conforming to ITE Standard on
“Vehicle Traffic Control Signal Heads.”
2.Include back plates and retroreflective tape border.
3.Refer to SL Series Standard Drawings.
F.Operation
1.Equipped with at least one Controller Unit (CU).
2.All CUs within a traffic control setup must be in communication with
each other, with signal timings coordinated.
3.Equip each CU with a Malfunction Management Unit (MMU)
conforming to NEMA TS 5.
G.Detection
1.Installed with vehicle detection hardware that communicates to the
CU.
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2.7AUTOMATED FLAGGER ASSISTANCE DEVICE (AFAD)
A.AFADs that comply with the MUTCD. Use either:
1.Red or Yellow AFAD with 12-inch circular signal heads and
mechanical gate arm.
2.Stop or Slow AFAD with mechanically changed signs and 12-inch
circular red signal head (optional mechanical gate arm)
B.Manufactured according to the latest edition of NEMA TS 5.
2.8FLEXIBLE REPAIR MASTIC MATERIAL
A.Meet the requirements of ASTM D 8260, Type I or Type II.
2.9NON-SHRINK GROUT
A.Use packaged dry, hydraulic-cement grout (non-shrink) according to
ASTM C 1107.
PART 3 EXECUTION
3.1GENERAL
A.Implement and maintain traffic control according to the authorized traffic
control plan.
1.Make changes immediately and notify the Engineer if traffic control
changes that deviate from the authorized traffic control plan are required to make the work zone safe for workers or the traveling public.
2.Update the traffic control plan with the changes and resubmit for
review.
3.Correct deficiencies immediately upon notification from the
Engineer.
4.Maintain traffic control as required by the authorized traffic control
plan when traffic control is in place and work is not actively occurring, including overnight, weekends and holidays.
5.Monitor actual back of queue resulting from construction activities.
a.Notify the Engineer after one week of consistent
observations of the adjusted actual back of queue.
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B.Maintain traffic control devices during and after all snow plowing
operations.
1.Clear snow and ice away from the following so that they function as
intended:
a.Traffic control devices.
b.TPAR devices.
C.Traffic control inspections.
1.Document inspections on a form acceptable to the Engineer.
a.Include at least the following:
1) Items in noncompliance with the authorized traffic control plan and the action taken to rectify the non- compliance.
2.Perform inspections at least four times daily when construction
work is underway.
a.Before beginning of shift,
b.At mid-shift,
c.Half-hour after shift ends, and
d.At the midpoint of the off-shift period.
3.Conduct traffic control inspections twice each day when
construction is not occurring, but traffic control is present.
a.Once during daylight hours.
b.Once during nighttime hours.
c.At least 8 hours between inspections.
D.Place temporary traffic control devices such that line of sight between
vehicle traffic and pedestrian traffic is not hindered.
E.Provide at least one flagger to monitor and control the AFAD at all times it
is in operation.
F.The UDOT Quality Guidelines for Temporary Traffic Control Devices
identifies different levels of device quality. Refer to: http://www.udot.utah.gov/go/standardsreferences
1.Meet the acceptable device quality level for all traffic control
devices.
2.Wash or replace devices as needed to maintain compliance with
the UDOT Quality Guidelines for Temporary Traffic Control Devices.
G.Remove equipment, material, traffic control devices and debris that
encroaches upon or inhibits travel in the travel lanes, bike lanes or TPAR identified in the traffic control plan.
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H.Fill holes in pavement created by use of temporary barrier stabilization pin
installation flush with the pavement surface.
1.Use crack seal for asphalt pavements
2.Use non-shrink grout for concrete pavements
I.Remove non-applicable pavement markings for operations longer than 3
days.
J.Clean and restore pavement markings, both on and off the project, that
are obscured by work operations, at the end of each day’s operation.
3.2TEMPORARY PEDESTRIAN ACCESS ROUTE (TPAR)
A.Provide a temporary pedestrian access route (TPAR) at all times in the
following order of preference:
1.Provide the TPAR on the same side of the roadway as the
disrupted route utilizing sidewalk diversion.
2.Provide the TPAR on the other side of the roadway.
3.Provide a TPAR detour with trailblazing signs.
B.Do not divert pedestrian traffic onto roadway if there is Department ROW
available to use for the detour behind the sidewalk.
1.A sidewalk diversion may also be placed in the park strip when it is
wide enough to accommodate the temporary walkway.
C.Provide a firm, stable, free-draining and non-slip temporary walkway
surface that allows normal usage of wheelchairs, walkers, strollers, and other mobility devices.
1.Concrete, asphalt mix, steel, wood (3/4 inch or thicker), and plastic
are acceptable surface materials.
D.Construct curb ramps and temporary walkways of a firm, stable, and slip
resistant surface material that is capable of supporting the weight of mobility devices and pedestrians in wheelchairs without buckling or warping.
E.Adjust the TPAR to maintain an accessible and detectable pedestrian
facility along the alternate pedestrian route when the temporary traffic control zone affects existing accessible and detectable pedestrian facilities.
1.All tripping hazards in the walkway must be delineated by a
detectable edge.
2.Locate ballasts behind or internal to devices.
a.Locate device support legs behind the detectable edge.
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F.Prevent or correct vertical discontinuities greater than 1/2 inch on
temporary ramp and walkway surface.
G.Diversion TPAR
1.Use continuous detectable edges on all pedestrian channelization.
2.Provide a 5 ft x 5 ft passing space every 200 ft where path width is
less than 5 ft wide
H.Detour TPAR
1.Maintain pedestrian facility detectable by long cane user along the
Detour TPAR when the workspace affects existing pedestrian facilities.
2.Detour must provide the level of accessibility present before
construction.
3.Cover or deactivate pedestrian traffic signal display and audible
tone controlling closed crosswalk when associated crosswalk is no longer accessible.
4.Use temporary pavement marking tape for temporary crosswalk
lines and yield lines unless the road is to be repaved after the crosswalk is removed or if they are not in the final configuration.
3.3TEMPORARY BICYCLIST ACCOMMODATIONS
A.Provide temporary ramps when the elevation of the temporary bikeway
has vertical discontinuities greater than 1 inch from the existing bikeway.
1.Temporary ramps must be constructed of a firm, stable, and slip
resistant surface, not to exceed 4:1 running slope.
B.Bicyclists may be instructed to dismount and walk on sidewalk if less than
0.25 miles when a detour cannot be provided and a sidewalk is accessible.
C.Provide 6 ft minimum width for bidirectional bikeways and 5 ft minimum
width for unidirectional bikeways.
D.Provide a 5 ft x 5 ft passing space every 200 ft where path width is less
than 5 ft wide.
E.Coordinate with local agencies when using local roads in detours.
3.4TRAFFIC CONTROL SIGNING AND DEVICES
A.Use preconstruction posted speed limit before the work zone to compute
the sign spacing, taper lengths, buffer zones, length of need for temporary barrier, and work clear zone distances.
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B.Use the work zone posted speed limit to compute the tangent spacing for
channelizing devices.
1.Use drums and directional barricades for lane closure taper devices
on freeways, divided highways, or roads with a speed limit of 50 mph or greater.
2.Use drums or vertical panels for night work.
3.Use tubular markers to delineate daytime work only.
a.Tubular markers may be used at night between bikeways
and workspace.
b.Do not use tubular markers as a lane closure taper device.
C.Use permanent or portable sign supports that meet the 7 ft minimum
mounting height when used for more than 7 days.
1.Signs on portable sign supports that do not meet the 7 ft minimum
mounting height may be used for 7 days or less.
2.Do not place signs in areas that block or impede bike or pedestrian
traffic.
3.Do not place signs where they would impede sight distance at
driveway approaches as well as intersections.
4.Multiple sign installations mounted on single timber post.
a.Use one 4 x 6 inch wood post.
5.Do not use timber sign post within 50 ft of an intersection.
D.Use steel plate ahead sign (W8-24) in advance of plate when steel plates
are placed on the roadway.
1.Place Bump Sign (W8-1) with a diagonal downward pointing arrow
(W16-7P) plaque adjacent to the steel plate.
E.Use the Work Zone Fender Bender sign (RS16-4b) according to the traffic
control plan to require motorists to move their vehicle out of the traffic lanes and to the next exit if they have been involved in a crash.
F.Use Queue Warning PCMS when vehicle queues occur in advance of the
installed Work Zone advance warning signs, in accordance with the traffic control plan.
1.Use PCMS available in this Section, article 3.5.
2.Adjust location of Queue Warning PCMS when observed beginning
of queue location is consistently observed, over a one week period, to have shifted to a different location than current Queue Warning PCMS location.
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G.Use a construction zone attenuator or permanent style end sections, as
listed in the UDOT Guidelines for Barrier and Attenuator Systems. http://www.udot.utah.gov/go/standardsreferences
1.Use a construction zone attenuator when approach ends of
temporary precast barrier are within the maximum AASHTO clear zone.
a.Use AASHTO Roadside Design Guide to determine proper
clear zone distance requirements.
b.Refer to the CC Series Standard Drawings and
manufacturer’s recommendations to install crash cushions.
2.Do not use a TMA to protect blunt ends on barriers or other objects
for more than 72 hours.
H.Maintain cable barrier and anchor systems during construction.
1.Protect existing hazards when cable barrier and anchor systems
are rendered inoperable by work.
a.Address barrier length of need for the hazard.
2.Maintain the required tension in the cable barrier system when the
cable is disconnected by installing anchor systems on each end of the disconnect.
a.Do not cut cable.
b.Disconnect cable at cable splice or anchor system locations
only.
3.Install manufacturer’s approved terminal compatible with existing
cable system.
a.Tension cable to manufacturer’s requirements.
4.Remove anchor system when cable barrier is reestablished.
I.Remove all traffic control devices from site of work that are no longer
necessary for the authorized traffic control plan.
1.Relocate traffic control devices from the roadway a distance twice
that of the Work Clear Zone if they will be used within 24 hours of the daily work stoppage and are not required for immediate traffic control. Refer to TC Series Standard Drawings.
2.Crashworthy traffic control devices moved with a drum mover or
similar equipment may be relocated to the hard surface shoulder within 1 ft of the outer edge of shoulder if they will be used for traffic control within 48 hours of the daily work stoppage and are not required for immediate traffic control.
3.Cover post mounted signs completely with an opaque and durable
covering when the signs are not applicable.
J.Cover or remove non-applicable work zone signs.
Traffic Control
3.5PORTABLE CHANGEABLE MESSAGE SIGNS (PCMS)
A.Place a PCMS in advance of the project limits 7 calendar days before the
start of construction.
1.Place PCMS 7 calendar days before the start of a new traffic
configuration that will last more than 30 days.
2.Place PCMS at least 1,000 ft in advance of a decision point for
speeds 40 mph or less.
3.Place PCMS at least 1 mile in advance of a decision point for
speeds 45 mph or more.
B.Provide at least two PCMS to be used at the Engineer’s discretion and
direction.
1.Separate multiple PCMS by at least 1,000 ft when used in the same
direction of traffic.
C.Place PCMS display message in view of oncoming traffic.
1.Place the PCMS so that it does not block:
a.any open lanes of traffic
b.line of sight for motorists
c.sidewalks
d.multi-use paths
e.pedestrian access ramps
f.bicycle lanes
2.Adjust PCMS location to address field conditions.
D.Compose messages of all uppercase letters and centered within each line
using the following pattern:
1.Construction start date; “ROADWORK BEGINS” and the day of the
week like “NEXT THURSDAY”.
2.New traffic configuration; “NEW TRAFFIC PATTERN” and the day
of the week like “NEXT THURSDAY”.
3.Display these messages for 6 days before the start date or change
in traffic pattern.
E.Consult MUTCD for luminance contrast, letter size and spacing, message
cycle times, and abbreviations requirements.
F.Provide detailed instructions and all necessary information for editing
messages remotely to the Engineer.
G.Inspect and reposition PCMS after snowstorms, windstorms, plowing
operations and other impactful events. Traffic Control
3.6CONNECTED ARROW BOARD (CAB)
A.May substitute Type C units for Type B units.
B.Verify that sign face is oriented to face oncoming traffic.
C.Remove CAB from the site of work or shield behind a roadside barrier and
turn away from traffic when not needed for the control of traffic within a four-hour period.
1.Delineate with drums if the previous two options are not feasible.
D.Install the CAB at the site according to the authorized traffic control plan.
E.Do not use arrow board to indicate a lane shift.
3.7TRAFFIC SIGNALS
A.Use uniformed police officers to control traffic when construction activities
are impacting an operating signalized intersection or for signal changeover.
B.Use of flaggers at traffic signals permitted when the signals have been
turned to red flash mode.
1.Control each approach by separate flaggers.
a.Flaggers can control only two lanes of approach traffic.
1) Third lane control permitted when left or right turn bays present.
C.The Department will make all changes to timing, phasing, detection, or
any other settings in the signal controller for permanent traffic signals.
1.Notify the Engineer at least 72 hours in advance of any needed
changes.
D.Maintain at least two signal heads for the primary movement at a
signalized intersection on all approaches.
E.Temporary Traffic Signals
1.Span Wire Signals
a.Use only for durations greater than 30 days, unless needed
for: 1) Signal head placement. 2) Number of signal heads for desired movements and phases.
b.Do not attach span wire to existing signal poles or luminaire
poles.
c.Refer to SL Series Standard Drawings for clearance and
signal head requirements.
Traffic Control
2.Temporary Portable Traffic Signal System (TPTSS)
a.Limit use of TPTSS to a maximum of 30 days.
b.Position at least one signal head within the dimensions of
each travel lane.
c.Left turn phases are not allowed while using TPTSS.
d.Maintain at least 2 feet of shy distance from the travel
shoulder line and edge of any TPTSS equipment.
e.Maintain appropriate channelization around TPTSS
equipment according to channelization for arrow boards in TC Series Standard Drawings.
f.Setup each Controller Unit (CU) within the allowable
communication range of each other.
g.Setup, maintain, and operate the TPTSS according to the
manufacturer’s instructions.
3.8PILOT VEHICLE OPERATIONS
A.Seal Coat with Cover Material Operations.
1.Reduced Speed Operations.
a.Continue flagging and pilot vehicle operations until the
roadway is swept clean and temporary pavement markings are installed before allowing free flow traffic to proceed.
2.Return to Preconstruction Posted Speed Limit.
a.Remove reduced speed limit restrictions and return to
preconstruction posted speed limit once the roadway surface has been swept and the affected work zone has appropriate pavement markings.
B.Pilot vehicles not to exceed speed of 40 mph.
C.Use a flagger at all intersections along the roadway where the pilot car is
in operation.
3.9CONSTRUCTION ZONE SPEED LIMIT REQUIREMENTS
A.Obtain approval for regulatory and advisory speed reductions.
1.Use speed reductions only during approved times and areas.
2.Restore preconstruction regulatory speed limit at locations where
traffic is not impacted by work activities.
B.Remove or cover all Work Zone Reduced Speed Limit assemblies (RS2-
1a) and the Work Zone Reduced Speed Limit Ahead (W3-5 series) signs when not required by the traffic control plan.
Traffic Control
3.10TRAFFIC SLOW DOWN
A.Obtain approval from the Department at least 48 hours before the Traffic
Slow Down.
1.Coordinate Traffic Slow Down with law enforcement.
B.Use a Highway Patrol Trooper, or other law enforcement officer, in a
marked vehicle with overhead flashing lights to conduct the Traffic Slow Down.
C.Additional vehicles as described in this article may be used in the Traffic
Slow Down to supplement the law enforcement vehicle when required by the officer.
1.Use, in any combination either, contractor-supplied vehicles
equipped with overhead amber flashing lights or additional officers in marked vehicles at the rate of one vehicle per lane thereafter for all lanes of the highway to affect the Traffic Slow Down.
D.The duration of any Traffic Slow Down is not to exceed five minutes.
3.11LANE CLOSURES
A.Use the UDOT Traffic Management System to notify the Engineer and the
UDOT Traffic Operations Center in advance of every lane closure.
1.Complete the training and quiz to obtain access to the UDOT
Traffic Management and UDOT Field app in accordance with the UDOT Traffic Management System User Guide: http://www.udot.utah.gov/go/standardsreferences
a.Enter a plan two weeks before work begins and enter
specific traffic control within 24 hours of authorization of use.
b.Submit lane or road closures using the UDOT Field app at
the time the first traffic channelizing device is placed.
c.Open lane or road closures using the UDOT Field app when
the last device is removed.
B.Make requests for the use of overhead VMS at least 72 hours before lane
closure begins.
1.Send request to Control Room Manager, tc-controlroom@utah.gov.
2.Include Traffic Control Supervisor contact information.
Traffic Control
C.Provide real-time confirmation of every lane closure on the state routes
listed in Table 1, and subsequent lane reopening, by calling the UDOT Traffic Operations Center at 801-887-3700.
1.Begin Lane Closure: Confirm lane closure details 30 to 45 minutes
before placing the first traffic control device in the travel lane.
2.End Lane Closure: Confirm lane reopening 30 to 45 minutes before
removing the last traffic control device in the lane.
Table 1 State Routes Requiring Real Time Lane Closure Confirmation All interstates (I-15, I-70, I-80, I-84, I-215) US-6 (East of I-15) SR-30 (I-15 to Logan) SR-36 (I-80 to Tooele) SR-67 SR-68 SR-85 SR-154 SR-177 SR-179 SR-194 SR-201 SR-224 SR-248 US-40 US-89 (Davis, Weber, Cache, Rich and Box Elder Counties) US-91 (I-15 to Logan) US-189 US-191 (Moab to I-70)
END OF SECTION
Traffic Control
Traffic Control in other states
Utah revises spec sections through supplementals and new editions. We check this one every week and email you the day it changes. Free, no account.
Source: Utah Standard Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction, 2026 Edition. Pages 177–194 of 1,331.
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