Original Notice.

     Preproposal statement of inquiry was filed as WSR 11-12-063.

     Title of Rule and Other Identifying Information: Revisions to chapter 468-95 WAC, Manual on uniform traffic control devices for streets and highways.

     Hearing Location(s): Department of Transportation, Commission Board Room 1D2, 310 Maple Park Avenue, Olympia, WA 98501, on November 17, 2011, at 1:30 p.m.

     Date of Intended Adoption: November 17, 2011.

     Submit Written Comments to: Rick Mowlds, P.O. Box 47344, Olympia, WA 98504-7344, e-mail mowldsr@wsdot.wa.gov, fax (360) 705-7988, by November 15, 2011.

     Assistance for Persons with Disabilities: Contact Grant Heap by November 15, 2011, TTY (360) 705-7760.

     Purpose of the Proposal and Its Anticipated Effects, Including Any Changes in Existing Rules: This rule will adopt the 2009 Edition of the Federal Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways (MUTCD), with modifications to reflect Washington state law and practices, into chapter 468-95 WAC. This action assures that traffic control device applications are current with the national practices mandated by the MUTCD. Changes to existing rules are typically clarifying in nature.

     Reasons Supporting Proposal: Part 655.603 of the Code of Federal Regulations requires the states to adopt traffic control device standards which are substantially compliant with the MUTCD published by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).

     Statutory Authority for Adoption: RCW 47.36.030, Traffic control devices.

     Statute Being Implemented: None.

     Rule is necessary because of federal law, Part 655.603, Code of Federal Regulations.

     Agency Comments or Recommendations, if any, as to Statutory Language, Implementation, Enforcement, and Fiscal Matters: RCW 47.36.030 requires the Washington state department of transportation to adopt uniform state standards for traffic control devices displayed upon state highways. The statute further provides that traffic control devices displayed upon county roads must comply with the state standards, and traffic control devices displayed upon city or town streets must comply with the state standards so far as practicable. This rule making fulfills the requirements of RCW 47.36.030. There should be no fiscal impact associated with this rule making, because any resultant traffic control device changes will be accomplished through attrition when existing devices wear out.

     Name of Proponent: Washington state department of transportation, governmental.

     Name of Agency Personnel Responsible for Drafting, Implementation and Enforcement: Rick Mowlds, Olympia, Washington, (360) 705-7988.

     No small business economic impact statement has been prepared under chapter 19.85 RCW. The rule is exempt from the small business economic impact statement process under RCW 19.85.025(3) and 34.05.310 (4)(c) and (d). There is no economic impact to small business because the placement of traffic control devices upon public roadways is a governmental responsibility.

     A cost-benefit analysis is not required under RCW 34.05.328. A cost-benefit analysis is exempt under RCW 34.05.328 (5)(b)(iii) and (iv). The rule does not change federal regulations or Washington state law. The rules incorporate the 2009 Edition of the MUTCD into chapter 468-95 WAC, assuring the most current national practices associated with placing traffic control devices.

October 3, 2011

Stephen T. Reinmuth

Chief of Staff

OTS-4126.3

AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 05-23-003, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05)

WAC 468-95-010   General.   The ((2003)) 2009 Edition of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways (MUTCD), published by the Federal Highway Administration and approved by the Federal Highway Administrator as the national standard for all highways open to public travel, was duly adopted by the Washington state secretary of transportation. Revisions are incorporated into the ((November 2003)) December 2009 Edition of the MUTCD, except as may be modified herein, when published by the Federal Highway Administration. The manual includes in part many illustrations, some of which depend on color for proper interpretation. The code reviser has deemed it inexpedient to convert these regulations and illustrations to the prescribed form and style of WAC and therefore excludes them from publication. The document is available for public inspection at the headquarters office and all region offices of the Washington state department of transportation. Further, each city, town, and county engineering office in the state will have either a hard copy or an electronic copy of the MUTCD, with revisions and modifications for Washington, in its possession.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-010, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05. Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-010, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03; 91-02-008 (Order 127), § 468-95-010, filed 12/21/90, effective 1/21/91. Statutory Authority: RCW 47.36.030. 87-05-043 (Order 108), § 468-95-010, filed 2/18/87; 85-23-041 (Order 98), § 468-95-010, filed 11/18/85; 85-01-056 (Order 93), § 468-95-010, filed 12/17/84.]

     The decision to use a particular device at a particular location should be made on the basis of either an engineering study or the application of engineering judgment. Thus, while this manual provides Standards, Guidance, and Options for the design and application of traffic control devices, this manual should not be considered a substitute for engineering judgment.

     Engineering judgment should be exercised in the selection and application of traffic control devices, as well as in the location and design of the roads and streets that the devices complement.

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     Site-specific conditions may lead agencies to determine that it is impossible or impractical to comply with a Standard and that they must deviate from the requirement of a particular Standard at that location or others having the same condition. In such limited specific cases, the deviation is allowed provided that the agency or official having jurisdiction fully documents the engineering reasons for the deviation.

     The FHWA can also be requested to review the site-specific condition and the proposed deviation and, if appropriate, issue an Official Interpretation to clarify the application of the Standard to that condition.

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     The junction of an alley with a street or highway shall not constitute an intersection.

[]

     For the purposes of defining a raised median, the use of block traffic curb (by itself, i.e., along a center line or a lane line) does not create a raised median.

[]

     Option:

     The In-Street Pedestrian Crossing (R1-6a) sign (see Figure 2B-2) or the Overhead Pedestrian Crossing (R1-9a) sign (see Figure 2B-2) may be used to remind road users of laws regarding right of way at an unsignalized pedestrian crossing. The legend STATE LAW may be shown at the top of the R1-6a and R1-9a signs if applicable. On the R1-5b and R1-5c signs, the legend STOP FOR may be used ((in conjunction with)) instead of the appropriate STOP sign symbol.

     Highway agencies may develop and apply criteria for determining the applicability of In-Street Pedestrian Crossing signs.

     Standard:

     If used, the In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign shall be placed in the roadway at the crosswalk location on the center line, on a lane line, or on a median island. The In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign shall not be post-mounted on the left-hand or right-hand side of the roadway.

     If used, the Overhead Pedestrian Crossing sign shall be placed over the roadway at the crosswalk location.

     An In-Street or Overhead Pedestrian Crossing sign shall not be placed in advance of the crosswalk to educate road users about the State law prior to reaching the crosswalk, nor shall it be installed as an educational display that is not near any crosswalk.

     Guidance:

     If an island (see Chapter ((3G)) 3I) is available, the In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign, if used, should be placed on the island.

     Option:

     If a Pedestrian Crossing (W11-2) warning sign is used in combination with an In-Street or an Overhead Pedestrian Crossing sign, the W11-2 sign with a diagonal downward pointing arrow (W16-76P) plaque may be post-mounted on the right-hand side of the roadway at the crosswalk location.

     Standard:

     The In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign and Overhead Pedestrian Crossing sign shall not be used at signalized locations.

     The STOP FOR legend shall only be used in States where the State law specifically requires that a driver stop for a pedestrian in a crosswalk.

     ((If used, the In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign shall have a black legend (except for the red STOP sign symbol) and border on either a white and/or fluorescent yellow-green background.

     If the In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign is placed in the roadway, the sign support shall comply with the breakaway requirements of the latest edition of AASHTO's "Specification for Structural Supports for Highway Signs, Luminaries, and Traffic Signals" (see Page i).)) The In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign shall have a black legend (except for the red STOP sign symbol) and border on a white background, surrounded by an outer yellow or fluorescent yellow-green background area (see Figure 2B-2). The Overhead Pedestrian Crossing sign shall have a black legend and border on a yellow or fluorescent yellow-green background at the top of the sign and a black legend and border on a white background at the bottom of the sign (see Figure 2B-2).

     Unless the In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign is placed on a physical island, the sign support shall be designed to bend over and then bounce back to its normal vertical position when struck by a vehicle.

     Support:

     The provisions of Section 2A.18 concerning mounting height are not applicable for the In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign.

     Standard:

     The top of an In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign shall be a maximum of 4 feet above the pavement surface. The top of an In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign placed in an island shall be a maximum of 4 feet above the island surface.

     Option:

     The In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign may be used seasonally to prevent damage in winter because of plowing operations, and may be removed at night ((where)) if the pedestrian activity at night is minimal.

     In-Street Pedestrian Crossing signs, Overhead Pedestrian Crossing signs, and Stop Here for Pedestrian signs may be used together at the same crosswalk.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-033, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05.]

     Standard:

     Speed Limits (R2-1) signs (see Figure 2B-1) shall display the speed limit established by statute; or, by an ordinance or regulation adopted by the authorized agency, based on the engineering study or traffic investigation required by RCW 46.61.405, 46.61.410, and 46.61.415. The speed limit shall be set in multiples of ((10 km/h or)) - 5 mph.

     Guidance:

     Authorized agencies should reevaluate speed limits on segments of their roadways that have undergone a significant change in roadway characteristics or surrounding land use since the last review.

     No more than three speed limits should be posted on any one Speed Limit sign or assembly.

     When evaluating speed limits, the following factors should be considered:

     ((A.)) • The 85th percentile speed of vehicles traveling on the road;

     ((B.)) • Road characteristics, shoulder condition, grade, alignment, and sight distance;

     ((C.)) • The pace speed;

     ((D.)) • Roadside development and environment;

     ((E.)) • Parking practices and pedestrian activity;

     ((F.)) • Reported crash experience for at least a 12 month period; and

     ((G.)) • Other factors such as route development or comprehensive plans.

     Option:

     Two types of Speed Limit signs may be used: One to designate passenger car speeds, including any nighttime information or minimum speed that may apply; and, the other to show any special speed limits for trucks and other vehicles.

     A changeable message sign that changes the speed limit for traffic and ambient conditions may be installed provided that the appropriate speed limit is shown at the proper times.

     A changeable message sign that displays to drivers the speed at which they are traveling may be installed in conjunction with a Speed Limit sign.

     Guidance:

     If a changeable message sign displaying approach speeds is installed, the legend YOUR SPEED XX ((km/h)) (mph) or such similar legend should be shown. The color of the changeable message legend should be a yellow legend on a black background or the reverse of these colors.

     Support:

     Advisory Speed signs are discussed in Sections ((2C.36)) 2C.08, 2C.14, and ((2C.46)) 2C.15. Temporary Traffic Control Zone Speed signs are discussed in Part 6.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-045, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05.]

     Option:

     If increased fines are imposed for traffic violations within a designated zone of a roadway, a BEGIN HIGHER FINES ZONE (R2-10) sign (see Figure 2B-3) or a FINES HIGHER (R2-6P) plaque (see Figure 2B-3) may be used to provide notice to road users. If used, the HIGHER FINES plaque shall be mounted below an applicable regulatory or warning sign in a temporary traffic control zone, a school zone, or other applicable designated zone.

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     Option:

     Two-way left turn only (R9-3a or R9-3b) signs (see Figure 2B-6) may be used in conjunction with the required pavement markings where a nonreversible lane is reserved for the exclusive use of left-turning vehicles in either direction, or turning into the roadway, and is not used for passing, overtaking, or through travel.

     Support:

     Upon a roadway where a center lane has been provided by distinctive pavement markings for the use of vehicles turning left from either direction, no vehicles may turn left from any other lane. No vehicle may travel further than three hundred feet within the lane. A signal, either electric or manual, for indicating a left turn movement, shall be made at least one hundred feet before the actual left turn movement is made.

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     The NO TURN ON RED sign (R10-11a, R10-11b) shall be used to prohibit any right turn on red; or a left turn on red from a one-way or two-way street into a one-way street carrying traffic in the direction of the left turn.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-120, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05. Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-120, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-125, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05.]

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-131, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05.]

     Option:

     A RAMP METER AHEAD (W3-7) sign (see Figure 2C-6) may be used to warn road users that a freeway entrance ramp is metered and that they will encounter a ramp control signal (see Chapter 4I).

     Guidance:

     When ramp control signals are operated only during certain periods of the day, a RAMP METERED WHEN FLASHING (W3-8) sign (see Figure 2C-6) should be installed near the entrance to the ramp in advance of the ramp control signal, or on the arterial on the approach to the ramp, to alert road users to the presence and operation of ramp meters.

     Standard:

     The RAMP METERED WHEN FLASHING sign shall be supplemented with a warning beacon (see Section 4L.03) that flashes when the ramp control signal is in operation.

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     (1) There shall be at least 500,000 square feet of ((leasable)) retail floor space;

     (2) There shall be at least three major department stores owned by national or regional retail chain organizations;

     (3) The center shall be located within one highway mile of the state highway;

     (4) The center shall generate at least 9,000 daily one-way vehicle trips to the center;

     (5) Sufficient sign space as specified in the MUTCD shall be available for installation;

     (6) Supplemental follow-through directional signing is required on county roads or city streets at key motorist decision points, if the center is not clearly visible from the point of exit from the state highway. The required supplemental follow-through directional signs shall be installed by the city or county prior to the installation of signs on the state highway;

     (7) Signing on the state highway to a county road or city street that bears the name of the regional shopping center fulfills the statutory requirements for signing to those centers;

     (8) The costs of materials and labor for fabricating, installing, and maintaining regional shopping center signs shall be borne by the center.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-140, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05. Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-140, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]

     In urban or suburban areas, especially where Advanced Street name signs are not used, the use of overhead Street Name signs should be considered. If overhead Street Name signs are used, the lettering should be at least ((300 mm (12 in) high in capital letters, or 300 mm (12 in))) 12 inch upper-case with ((225 mm (9 in))) 9 inch lower case letters where posted speeds are 40 mph or greater. For roads with posted speeds less than 40 mph, lettering should be 8 inch ((capital)) upper case letters with 6 inch lower case letters or greater for overhead Street Name signs. New construction should include the larger size letters for overhead signs. Internally illuminated signs may use smaller letter size.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-143, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05.]

     Where lateral clearance is limited, preferential lane regulatory signs that are post mounted on a median barrier and that are 72 inches or less in width may be skewed up to 45 degrees in order to fit with the barrier width, or may be mounted higher such that the vertical clearance to the bottom of the sign, light fixture, or structural support, whichever is lowest, is not less than twelve feet above any portion of the pavement and shoulders.

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     Chapter ((2J)) 2O, Event Signs, Banners, and Decorations

     Pursuant to RCW 47.36.030(3) and 47.42.020(8), the department may permit signs, banners, or decorations visible to state highways that promote a local agency sponsored event in accordance with the applicable following criteria:

     Standard:

     A. Signs, banners, and decorations shall not interfere or obstruct the view of any traffic control device or impair the operation of transportation management systems or street illumination.

     B. The sign, banner, or decoration shall not include commercial advertising as determined by the department.

     C. Signs, banners, or decorations shall be mounted not less than 20 vertical feet above the roadway surface measured at any point.

     D. Signs, banners, or decorations shall not be visible from Interstate highways, or other state highways having a posted speed limit of 50 miles per hour or greater.

     E. Signs, banners, or decorations shall be installed no more than 30 days before and removed no more than 3 days after the local agency sponsored event.

     Option:

     Along multi-lane state highways a sign, banner, or decoration may be mounted vertically on luminaire posts subject to meeting wind load requirements specified by the department.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-148, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05.]

     If a continuous median island formed by pavement markings separating travel in opposite directions is used, the island may be formed by two single normal solid yellow lines, a combination of two single normal solid yellow lines with yellow crosshatching between the lines with a total width not less than eighteen inches, two sets of double solid yellow lines, or a solid yellow line not less than eighteen inches in width. All other markings in the median island area shall be yellow, except crosswalk markings, which shall be white (see Section ((3B.17)) 3B.18).

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-160, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05. Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-160, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]

     Edge lines shall be used on all interstate highways, rural multilane divided highways, all principal arterials and minor arterials within urbanized areas, except when curb or sidewalk exists, and may be used on other classes of roads. A jurisdiction shall conform to these requirements at such time that it undertakes to renew or install permanent markings on new or existing roadways. The edge lines shall be white, except that the edge lines shall be yellow on the left edge of each roadway of divided streets and highways and one-way roadway in the direction of travel.

     Edge line markings shall also be placed on paved rural arterials with a traveled way of ((6.1 m (20 ft))) 20 feet or more in width and an ADT of 6,000 or greater vehicles per day.

     These standards shall be in effect, as provided in this section, unless the legislative authority of the local governmental body finds that special circumstances exist affecting vehicle and pedestrian safety that warrant a site-specific variance.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-190, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05. Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-190, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]

     Pavement markings shall be used to guide traffic away from fixed obstructions within a paved roadway. Approach markings for bridge supports, refuge islands, median islands, toll plazas, and channelization islands (except channelization islands formed by paint stripes or raised pavement markers) shall consist of a diagonal line or lines extending from the ((centerline)) center line or the lane line to a point ((0.3 to 0.6 m ())1 to 2 ((ft))) feet to the right side, or to both sides, of the approach end of the obstruction (see Figure ((3B-13)) 3B-15).

     Amend ((the third Standard)) paragraph 07 of MUTCD Section 3B.10 to read:

     If traffic is required to pass only to the right of the obstruction, the markings shall consist of a no-pass marking, approaching the obstruction, at least twice the length of the diagonal portion as determined by the appropriate taper formula (see Figure ((3B-13)) 3B-15).

     Modify MUTCD Figure ((3B-13)) 3B-15, Item a - Center of two-lane road, to show a single no-pass marking on the approach to the obstruction.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-200, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]

     Raised pavement markers may also be used to supplement other markings for channelizing islands or approaches to other objects. The general use of raised pavement markers along right edge lines is strongly discouraged because the markers can cause steering difficulties and make bicyclists lose control of their vehicles. Raised or recessed pavement markers may be used along right edge lines on the taper in lane transition sections, on approaches to objects, and within channelization at intersections. Raised or recessed pavement markers can only be used along right edge lines at other locations where an engineering study has determined that the markers are essential to preserving pedestrian, bicycle, and motor vehicle safety. At the initiation of the engineering study, local bicycling organizations, the regional member of the state bicycle advisory committee, or the WSDOT bicycle and pedestrian program manager shall be notified of the study for review and comment. Positioning and spacing of the markers in such cases must be determined by engineering judgment taking into consideration their effect on bicycle, pedestrian, and motor vehicle safety; and, where used, are spaced closely enough (no greater than ((3 m (10 ft))) 10 feet apart) to approximate the appearance of a solid line. Other applications of raised or recessed pavement markers along right edge lines of arterials are considered to be nonconforming with this section. Cities and counties shall remove their nonconforming raised or recessed pavement markers at the time that they prepare to resurface roadways, or earlier at their option.

     These standards shall be in effect, as provided in this section, unless the legislative authority of the local governmental body finds that special circumstances exist affecting vehicle and pedestrian safety that warrant a site-specific variance.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-205, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05.]

     If raised pavement markers are substituted for broken line markings, a group of 3 to 5 markers equally spaced at no greater than N/8 (see Section ((3B-11)) 3B.11), or at the one-third points of the line segment if N is other than ((12 m (40 ft))) 40 feet, with ((a)) at least one retroreflective or internally illuminated marker used per group.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-210, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05. Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-210, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]

     If used, stop ((and yield)) line((s)) should be placed a minimum of ((1.2 m (4 ft))) 4 feet in advance of the nearest crosswalk line at controlled intersections((, except for)). Yield lines at roundabout intersections as provided ((for)) in Section ((3B.24 and at midblock crosswalks)) 3C.04. In the absence of a marked crosswalk, the stop line or yield line should be placed at the desired stopping or yielding point, in no case less than 4 feet from the nearest edge of the intersecting roadway. Stop lines should be placed to allow sufficient sight distance to all other approaches to an intersection.

     If used at an unsignalized midblock crosswalk, ((yield)) stop lines should be placed adjacent to the ((Yield)) Stop Here ((to)) for Pedestrians sign located ((6.1 to 15 m (20 to 50 ft))) 20 to 50 feet in advance of the nearest crosswalk line, and parking should be prohibited in the area between the ((yield)) stop line and the crosswalk (see Figure ((3B-15)) 3B-17). ((Stop lines at midblock signalized locations should be placed at least 12 m (40 ft) in advance of the nearest signal indication (see Section 4D.15).))

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-220, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05. Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-220, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]

     If used, the diagonal or longitudinal lines should form a 24-inch wide marking pattern consisting of two 8-inch wide markings separated by an 8-inch wide gap or a 24-inch wide solid marking pattern. The marking patterns should be spaced 12 to 60 inches apart but with the maximum gap between marking patterns not to exceed 2.5 times the marking pattern width. Longitudinal marking patterns should be located to avoid the wheel paths and should be oriented parallel with the wheel paths.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-230, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]

     ((Guidance:)) Option:

     Preferential lane word and symbol markings may be offset up to a maximum of 1'0" from the center of the preferred-use lane to avoid vehicle wheel paths.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-235, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05.]

     Vehicle operators facing a steady circular red signal may, after stopping, proceed to make a right turn from a one-way or two-way street into a two-way street or into a one-way street carrying traffic in the direction of the right turn; or a left turn from a one-way or two-way street into a one-way street carrying traffic in the direction of the left turn; unless a sign posted by a competent authority prohibits such movement. Vehicle operators planning to make such turns shall remain stopped to allow other vehicles lawfully within or approaching the intersection control area to complete their movements. Vehicle operators planning to make such turns shall also remain stopped for pedestrians who are lawfully within the intersection control area.

     Pursuant to RCW 46.61.055, amend the Standard of MUTCD Section 4D.04, item C.2, to read:

     Vehicle operators facing a steady red arrow indication may, after stopping, proceed to make a right turn from a one-way or two-way street or into a one-way street carrying traffic in the direction of the right turn, or a left turn from a one-way street or two-way street into a one-way street carrying traffic in the direction of the left turn, unless a sign posted by a competent authority prohibits such movement. Vehicle operators planning to make such turns shall remain stopped to allow other vehicles lawfully within or approaching the intersection control area to complete their movements. Vehicle operators planning to make such turns shall also remain stopped for pedestrians who are lawfully within the intersection control area.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-250, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05. Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-250, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]

     ((A steady RED ARROW signal indication shall be displayed when it is intended to prohibit vehicular traffic from entering the intersection or other controlled area to make the indicated turn when regulatory signing is in place prohibiting such movement. Pedestrians directed by a pedestrian signal head may enter the intersection or other controlled area.)) A steady RED ARROW signal indication shall be displayed when it is intended to prohibit vehicular traffic from entering the intersection or other controlled area to make the indicated turn when regulatory signing is in place prohibiting such movement. Pedestrians directed by a pedestrian signal head may enter the intersection or other controlled area.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-260, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05. Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-260, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]

     Capacities and demand/capacity relationships should be determined for each freeway section. The locations and causes of capacity restrictions and those sections where demand exceeds capacity should be identified. From these and other data, estimates should be made of desirable metering rates, probable reductions in the delay of freeway traffic, likely increases in delay to ramp traffic, and the potential impact on surface streets. The study should include an evaluation of the ramp's storage capacities for vehicles delayed at the signal, stopping sight distance approaching the ramp control signal, the impact of queued traffic on the local street intersection, and the availability of suitable alternate surface routes having adequate capacity to accommodate any additional traffic volume.

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     A steady YELLOW X or a flashing RED X means that a driver should prepare to vacate, in a safe manner, the lane over which the signal is located because a lane control change is being made, and to avoid occupying that lane when a steady RED X is displayed.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-270, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05. Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-270, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]

     A moving condition in one direction shall be terminated either by the immediate display of a RED X signal indication or by a YELLOW X signal indication followed by a RED X signal indication or a flashing RED X indication followed by a RED X indication.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-280, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05. Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-280, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]

     ((Oversized sign sizes)) The sizes shown under the oversized column in Table 5A-1 may be used where engineering judgment indicates a need based on high vehicle operating speeds, driver expectancy, traffic operations, or roadway conditions.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-29003, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05.]

     A ONE LANE BRIDGE (W5-3) sign (see Figure 5C-2) may be used on low-volume two-way roadways in advance of any bridge or culvert:

     A. Having a clear roadway width of less than ((4.9 m ())16 ((ft))) feet; or

     B. Having a clear roadway width of less than ((5.5 m ())18 ((ft))) feet when commercial vehicles constitute a high proportion of the traffic; or

     C. Having a clear roadway width of ((5.5 m ())18 ((ft))) feet or less where the approach sight distance is limited on the approach to the structure.

     Additional warning may be provided on the approach to a one lane bridge or culvert by the use of object markers and/or delineators.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-29007, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05.]

     ((Centerline)) Center line markings may be used on paved low-volume roads where engineering judgment or an engineering study indicates a need for them.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-29011, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05.]

     ((Edgeline)) Edge line Markings may be considered for use on paved low-volume roads based on engineering judgment or an engineering study.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-29013, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05.]

     The end of a low-volume road may be marked with an end-of-roadway marker in conformance with Section ((3C.04)) 2C.66.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-29017, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05.]

Sign Spacing (1)

Freeways and Expressways	55/70 MPH	1500' ± ((or per MUTCD))
Rural Highways	60/65 MPH	800' ±
Rural Roads	45/55 MPH	500' ±
Rural Roads and Urban Arterials	35/40 MPH	350' ±
Rural Roads, Urban Arterials, Residential, Business Districts	25/30 MPH	200' ± (2)
Urban Streets	25 MPH or less	100' ± (2)

     (1) All spacing may be adjusted to accommodate interchange ramps, at-grade intersections, and driveways.

     (2) This spacing may be reduced in urban areas to fit roadway conditions.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-300, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05. Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-300, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]

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     Standard:

     Flagger directions at signalized intersections shall not be in conflict with signal displays and the signal must be either shut down or placed in flash mode as appropriate for the intersection operation except during emergencies.

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     Standard:

     A flagger shall not flag traffic within an intersection, except for an emergency or law enforcement flagging.

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     A supplemental plaque displaying the message MOTORCYCLES USE EXTREME CAUTION is added to MUTCD Figure 6F-4. Delete the Motorcycle symbol (W8-15P) plaque from Figure 6F-4.

     ((The plaque may supplement primary condition warning signs.)) The MOTORCYCLES USE EXTREME CAUTION (W21-1701P) plaque (see Figure 6F-4) may be mounted below a LOOSE GRAVEL (W8-7) sign, a GROOVED PAVEMENT (W8-15) sign, a ABRUPT LANE EDGE (W21-801), a METAL BRIDGE DECK (W8-16) sign, or a STEEL PLATE AHEAD (W8-24) sign if the warning is intended to be directed primarily to motorcyclists.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-306, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05.]

     Standard:

     All temporary pavement markings shall conform to the requirements of Chapters 3A and 3B. All temporary broken-line pavement markings shall use the same cycle length as permanent markings and be at least ((0.6 m ())2 ((ft))) feet long.

     Support:

     Temporary pavement markings are those that may be used until it is practical and possible to install permanent markings.

     Option:

     Half-cycle lengths with a minimum of ((0.6 m ())2 ((ft))) feet stripes may be used on roadways with severed curvature (see Section 3A.05) for center lines in passing zones and for lane lines.

     For temporary situations, for a two-lane or three-lane road, no-passing zones may be identified by using DO NOT PASS (R4-1), PASS WITH CARE (R4-2), and NO PASSING ZONE (W14-3) signs rather than pavement markings.

     Guidance:

     When used, the DO NOT PASS, PASS WITH CARE, and NO PASSING ZONE signs should be placed in accordance with Sections ((2B.29, 2B.30, and 2C.35)) 2B.28, 2B.29, and 2C.45.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-310, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05. Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-310, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]

Sign Spacing⁽¹⁾

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-317, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05.]

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     A ((300 mm (12 in))) 12 inch reduced size in-street School Advance Warning (S1-1) sign (see Figure 7B-4), installed in compliance with the mounting height and breakaway requirements for In-Street Pedestrian Crossing (R1-6a) signs (see Section 2B.12), may be used in advance of a school crossing to supplement the ground-mounted school warning signs. A ((300 mm x 150 mm (12 in x 6 in))) 12 inch x 6 inch reduced size AHEAD (W16-9p) plaque may be mounted below the reduced size in-street School Advance Warning (S1-1) sign.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-325, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05.]

     Option:

     Where increased fines are imposed for traffic violations within a designated school zone, a BEGIN HIGHER FINES ZONE (R2-10) sign (see Figure 7B-1) or a FINES HIGHER (R2-6P), FINES DOUBLE (R2-6aP), or $XX FINE (R2-6bP) plaque (see Figure 2B-3) may be installed as a supplement to the School Zone (S1-1) sign to identify the beginning point of the higher fines zone (see Figures 7B-2 and 7B-3).

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     Option:

     The In-Street Pedestrian Crossing (R1-6a) sign (see Section 2B.12 and Figure 7B-6) or the In-Street Schoolchildren Crossing (R1-6c) sign (see Figure 7B-6) may be used at unsignalized school crossings. If used at a school crossing, a 12 inch x 4 inch SCHOOL (S4-3P) plaque (see Figure 7B-6) may be mounted above the sign. The STATE LAW legend on the R1-6 series signs may be omitted.

     A 12 inch reduced size in-street School (S1-1) sign (see Figure 7B-6) may be used at an unsignalized school crossing instead of the In-Street Pedestrian Crossing (R1-6a) sign or the In-Street Schoolchildren Crossing (R1-6c) sign. A 12 inch x 6 inch reduced size diagonal downward pointing arrow (W16-7P) plaque may be mounted below the reduced size in-street School (S1-1) sign.

     Standard:

     If an In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign, an In-Street Schoolchildren Crossing sign, or a reduced size in-street School (S1-1) sign is placed in the roadway, the sign support shall comply with the mounting height and special mounting support requirements for In-Street Pedestrian Crossing (R1-6a) signs.

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     Option:

     The SCHOOL BUS TURN AROUND (S3-201) sign (see Figure 7B-1) may be installed in advance of locations where a school bus turns around on a roadway at a location not visible to approaching road users for a distance determined by Condition B "0" + 100 feet of Table 2C-4, and where there is no opportunity to relocate the school bus turn around to provide as a minimum the distance determined from Table 2C-4.

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     Applicable to state highways, county roads, or city streets, the reduced school or playground speed zone shall extend for 300 feet in either direction from the marked crosswalk when the marked crosswalk is fully posted with standard school speed limit signs or standard playground speed limit signs.

     Applicable to county roads or city streets, the school or playground speed zone may extend up to 300 feet from the border of the school or playground property when fully posted with standard school speed limit signs or standard playground speed limit signs. However, the speed zone may only include the area consistent with active school or playground use.

     No school or playground speed zone may extend less than 300 feet from a marked school or playground crosswalk, but may extend by traffic regulation beyond 300 feet based on a traffic and engineering investigation.

     ((Pursuant to RCW 46.61.440,)) The speed limit signs ((distance note)) shown in Figure ((7B-3 is replaced with:

     See WAC 468-95-330 for school or playground speed limit placement distances)) 7B-5 shall be located per RCW 46.61.440.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-330, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05. Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-330, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]

     The supplemental or lower panel of a School Speed Limit 20 sign which reads When Children are Present shall indicate to the motorist that the 20 mile per hour school speed limit is in force under any of the following conditions:

     (1) School children are occupying or walking within the marked crosswalk.

     (2) School children are waiting at the curb or on the shoulder of the roadway and are about to cross the roadway by way of the marked crosswalk.

     (3) School children are present or walking along the roadway, either on the adjacent sidewalk or, in the absence of sidewalks, on the shoulder within the posted school speed limit zone extending 300 feet, or other distance established by regulation, in either direction from the marked crosswalk.

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     The School Speed Limit assembly shall be either a fixed-message sign assembly or a changeable message sign. The fixed-message School Speed Limit assembly shall consist of a top plaque (S4-3) with the legend SCHOOL, a Speed Limit (R2-1) sign, and a bottom plaque (S4-1, S4-2, S4-4, S4-6, or S4-501) indicating the specific periods of the day and/or days of the week that the special school speed limit is in effect (see Figure 7B-1).

     Amend Figure 7B-1 to include the WHEN FLAGGED (S4-501) sign.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 46.36.030 [RCW 47.36.030]. 05-23-003, § 468-95-340, filed 11/3/05, effective 12/4/05. Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-340, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]

     If used, the diagonal or longitudinal lines should form a 24-inch wide marking pattern consisting of two 8-inch wide markings separated by an 8-inch wide gap or a 24-inch wide solid marking pattern. The marking patterns should be spaced 12 to 60 inches apart but with the maximum gap between marking patterns not to exceed 2.5 times the marking pattern width. Longitudinal marking patterns should be located to avoid the wheel paths and should be oriented parallel with the wheel paths.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-360, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]

     Notes:

     All aspects (or signal indications) are either white or amber.

     (1) Could be in single housing.

     (2) "Go" lens may be used in flashing mode to indicate "prepare to stop."

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     The following sections of the Washington Administrative Code are repealed:

WAC 468-95-015	Compliance dates.
WAC 468-95-027	Stop sign placement.
WAC 468-95-132	Advisory exit, ramp, and curve speed signs (W13-2, W13-3, and W13-5).
WAC 468-95-133	Intersection warning signs (W2-1 through W2-6).
WAC 468-95-134	Advisory speed plaques (W13-1).
WAC 468-95-135	Cross traffic does not stop plaque (W4-4p).
WAC 468-95-147	General design requirements for recreational and cultural interest area symbol signs.
WAC 468-95-150	No passing zone markings.
WAC 468-95-180	Other white longitudinal pavement markings.
WAC 468-95-303	Sign placement.
WAC 468-95-350	When children are present.

© Washington State Code Reviser's Office