MUTCD W9-1: Lane Ends Signs

The W9-1 sign is covered in Section 2C.47 of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, 11th Edition. Below are the provisions from that section that describe when the sign is used and how it is placed.

What it means and when it is used

• Guidance · Recommended (should)
  The Lane Ends (W4-2) sign should be installed at the advance placement distance in accordance with Table 2C-3. Sect. 2C.47 W4-3RW4-6RFigure 2C-12. Examples of Merge and Added Lane Sign Placement for Entering and Converging Roadways W4-6RW4-3RW4-1R W4-1LW4-1RA – Example for converging and entering roadways B – Examples for an added lane Legend Direction of travel Sect. 2C.47Figure 2C-13. Example Sequences for Lane…
• Guidance · Recommended (should)
  A RIGHT (LEFT) LANE ENDS (W9-1) sign may be installed in advance of the Lane Ends sign to provide additional warning that a lane is ending and that a merging maneuver will be required.

Placement and mounting

• Guidance · Recommended (should)
  If a W9-1 sign is installed, a Distance (W16-2P series or W16-3P series) plaque (see Figure 2C-16 ) should be installed below the W9-1 sign.
• Guidance · Recommended (should)
  On one-way streets or on divided highways where the left-hand lane is ending and the width of the median will permit, the W9-1 and W4-2 signs should be placed facing approaching traffic on the left-hand side or median.
• Option · Permitted (may)
  Where a lane ends a distance beyond the intersection that is less than the advance placement distance indicated in Table 2C-3, the W4-2 sign may be located at the far side of the intersection (see Sheet 4 of Figu re 2C- 13).

Where to read the rest

• Full text: MUTCD Section 2C.47: Lane Ends Signs
• Minimum sign sizes by roadway type are in the size section for this chapter: Section 2C.03
• Mounting height, lateral offset and retroreflectivity for any sign: MUTCD sign placement guide

Related signs in Section 2C.47