Chapter 2B. Regulatory Signs
Section 2B.17 FINES HIGHER Plaque (R2-6)
Option:
The FINES HIGHER (R2-6) plaque (see Figure
2B-1) may be used to advise road users when increased fines
are imposed for traffic violations within designated roadway segments.
The FINES HIGHER plaque may be mounted below an applicable regulatory or warning sign in a temporary traffic control zone, a school zone, or other applicable designated zones.
The following may be mounted below the FINES HIGHER plaque:
- A supplemental plaque specifying the times that the higher fines are in effect (similar to the S4-1 plaque shown in Figure 7B-1); or
- A supplemental plaque WHEN CHILDREN (WORKERS) ARE PRESENT; or
- A supplemental plaque WHEN FLASHING (similar to the S4-4 plaque shown in Figure 7B-1) if used in conjunction with a yellow flashing beacon.
The legend FINES HIGHER may be replaced by multiple values such as FINES DOUBLE or FINES TRIPLE, or by a specific value such as $150 FINE.
Standard:
The FINES HIGHER plaque shall be a rectangle with a black legend
and border on a white background.
All supplemental plaques mounted below the FINES HIGHER plaque shall be rectangles with black legends and borders on white backgrounds.
The FINES HIGHER plaque shall include a SCHOOL, WORK ZONE, or other applicable designated zone plaque mounted above the applicable regulatory or warning sign. The SCHOOL supplemental plaque shall be rectangular in shape with a black legend and border on a yellow or fluorescent yellow-green background (same as the S4-3 plaque). The WORK ZONE supplemental plaque shall be rectangular in shape with a black legend and border on an orange background.
Guidance:
If used, the FINES HIGHER plaque should be located at the beginning
of the temporary traffic control zone, school zone, or other applicable
designated zone and just beyond any interchanges, major intersections,
or other major traffic generators.
Agencies should limit the use of the FINES HIGHER plaque to locations where work is actually underway, or to locations where the roadway, shoulder, or other conditions, including the presence of a school, require a speed reduction or extra caution on the part of the road user.
Section 2B.18 Location of Speed Limit Signs
Standard:
Speed Limit (R2-1) signs, indicating speed limits for which posting
is required by law, shall be located at the points of change from
one speed limit to another.
At the end of the section to which a speed limit applies, a Speed Limit sign showing the next speed limit shall be installed. Additional Speed Limit signs shall be installed beyond major intersections and at other locations where it is necessary to remind road users of the speed limit that is applicable.
Speed Limit signs indicating the statutory speed limits shall be installed at entrances to the State and at jurisdictional boundaries of metropolitan areas.
Section 2B.19 Turn Prohibition Signs (R3-1 through R3-4, R3-18)
Standard:
Except as noted in the Option, where turns are prohibited, Turn
Prohibition signs shall be installed.
Guidance:
Turn Prohibition signs should be placed where they will be most
easily seen by road users who might be intending to turn.
If No Right Turn (R3-1) signs (see Figure 2B-3) are used, at least one should be placed either over the roadway or at a right corner of the intersection.
If No Left Turn (R3-2) signs (see Figure 2B-3) are used, at least one should be placed either over the roadway, at the far left corner of the intersection, on a median, or in conjunction with the STOP sign or YIELD sign located on the near right corner.
Except as noted in the Option, if NO TURNS (R3-3) signs (see Figure 2B-3) are used, two signs should be used, one at a location specified for a No Right Turn sign and one at a location specified for a No Left Turn sign.
If No U-Turn (R3-4) signs (see Figure 2B-3) are used, at least one should be used at a location specified for No Left Turn signs.
If combination No U-Turn/No Left Turn (R3-18) signs (see Figure 2B-3) are used, at least one should be used at a location specified for No Left Turn signs.
Option:
If signals are present:
- The No Right Turn sign may be installed adjacent to a signal face viewed by road users in the right lane.
- The No Left Turn (or No U-Turn or combination No U-Turn/No Left Turn) sign may be installed adjacent to a signal face viewed by road users in the left lane.
- A NO TURNS sign may be placed adjacent to a signal face viewed by all road users on that approach, or two signs may be used.
If signals are present, an additional Turn Prohibition sign may be ground mounted to supplement the sign mounted overhead.
Where ONE WAY signs are used (see Section 2B.32), Turn Prohibition signs may be omitted.
When the movement restriction applies during certain time periods only, the following Turn Prohibition signing alternatives may be used and are listed in order of preference:
- Changeable message signs, especially at signalized intersections.
- Permanently mounted signs incorporating a supplementary legend showing the hours and days during which the prohibition is applicable.
- Portable signs, installed by proper authority, located off the roadway at each corner of the intersection. The portable signs are only to be used during the time that the turn prohibition is applicable.
Turn Prohibition signs may be omitted at a ramp entrance to an expressway or a channelized intersection where the design is such as to indicate clearly the one-way traffic movement on the ramp or turning lane.
If both left turns and U-turns are prohibited, the R3-18 sign may be used instead of separate R3-2 and R3-4 signs.
Section 2B.20 Intersection Lane Control Signs (R3-5 through R3-8)
Standard:
Intersection Lane Control signs, if used, shall require road users
in certain lanes to turn, shall permit turns from a lane where such
turns would otherwise not be permitted, shall require a road user
to stay in the same lane and proceed straight through an intersection,
or shall indicate permitted movements from a lane.
Intersection Lane Control signs (see Figure 2B-4) shall have three applications:
- Mandatory Movement Lane Control (R3-5, R3-5a, and R3-7) signs;
- Optional Movement Lane Control (R3-6) sign; and
- Advance Intersection Lane Control (R3-8 series) signs.
Figure 2B-4 Intersection Lane Control Signs
Guidance:
When Intersection Lane Control signs are mounted overhead, each
sign should be placed over the lane or a projection of the lane
to which it applies.
Standard:
Use of an overhead sign for one approach lane shall not require
installation of overhead signs for the other lanes of that approach.
Option:
Where the number of through lanes on an approach is two or less,
the Intersection Lane Control signs (R3-5, R3-6, or R3-8) may be
overhead or ground mounted.
Intersection Lane Control signs may be omitted where:
- Turning bays have been provided by physical construction or pavement markings, and
- Only the road users using such turning bays are permitted to make a similar turn.
Section 2B.21 Mandatory Movement Lane Control Signs (R3-5, R3-5a, and R3-7)
Standard:
If used, Mandatory Movement Lane Control (R3-5, R3-5a, and R3-7)
signs (see Figure 2B-4) shall indicate only those vehicle movements
that are required from each lane and shall be located where the
regulation applies. When the mandatory movement applies to lanes
exclusively designated for HOV traffic, the R3-5c supplemental plaque
shall be used. When the mandatory movement applies to lanes that
are not HOV facilities, but are lanes exclusively designated for
buses and/or taxis, the word message R3-5d and/or R3-5g supplemental
plaques shall be used. The R3-7 word message sign shall be for ground
mounting only.
If the R3-5 sign is ground mounted on a multi-lane approach, a supplemental plaque (see Figure 2B-4), such as LEFT LANE (R3-5b), HOV 2+ (R3-5c), TAXI LANE (R3-5d), CENTER LANE (R3-5e), RIGHT LANE (R3-5f), BUS LANE (R3-5g), or LEFT 2 LANES, indicating the lane with the appropriate movement shall be added below.
The Mandatory Movement Lane Control (R3-7) sign shall include the legend RIGHT (LEFT) LANE MUST TURN RIGHT (LEFT). The Mandatory Movement Lane Control symbol signs (R3-5 and R3-5a) shall include the legend ONLY.
Guidance:
Mandatory Movement Lane Control signs should be accompanied by lane
use arrow markings, especially where traffic volumes are high, where
there is a high percentage of commercial vehicles, or where other
distractions exist.
Option:
The Straight Through Only (R3-5a) sign may be used to require a
road user in a particular lane to proceed straight through an intersection.
When the Mandatory Movement Lane Control sign for a left-turn lane is installed back-to-back with a Keep Right (R4-7) sign, the dimensions of the Mandatory Movement Lane Control (R3-5) sign may be the same as the Keep Right sign.
Except for the R3-7 sign, Mandatory Movement Lane Control signs may be overhead or ground mounted.
The diamond symbol may be used instead of the word message HOV on the R3-5c supplemental plaque.
Section 2B.22 Optional Movement Lane Control Sign (R3-6)
Standard:
If used, the Optional Movement Lane Control (R3-6) sign (see Figure
2B-4) shall be used for two or more movements from a specific lane
or to emphasize permitted movements. If used, the Optional Movement
Lane Control sign shall be located at the intersection.
If used, the Optional Movement Lane Control sign shall indicate all permissible movements from specific lanes.
Optional Movement Lane Control signs shall be used for two or more movements from a specific lane where a movement, not normally allowed, is permitted.
The Optional Movement Lane Control sign shall not be used alone to effect a turn prohibition.
Option:
The word message OK may be used within the border in combination
with the arrow symbols of the R3-6 sign.
Section 2B.23 Advance Intersection Lane Control Signs (R3-8 Series)
Option:
Advance Intersection Lane Control (R3-8, R3-8a, and R3-8b) signs
(see Figure 2B-4) may be used to indicate the configuration of all
lanes ahead.
The word messages ONLY, OK, THRU, ALL, or HOV 2+ may be used within the border in combination with the arrow symbols of the R3-8 sign series. The HOV 2+ (R3-5c) supplemental plaque may be installed at the top outside border of the R3-8 sign over the applicable lane. The diamond symbol may be used instead of the word message HOV. The minimum allowable vehicle occupancy requirement may vary based on the level established for a particular facility.
Guidance:
If used, an Advance Intersection Lane Control sign should be placed
at an adequate distance in advance of the intersection so that road
users can select the appropriate lane. If used, the Advance Intersection
Lane Control sign should be installed either in advance of the tapers
or at the beginning of the turn lane.
Section 2B.24 Two-Way Left Turn Only Signs (R3-9a, R3-9b)
Guidance:
Two-Way Left Turn Only (R3-9a or R3-9b) signs (see Figure 2B-5)
should 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 and is not used for passing,
overtaking, or through travel.
Option:
The ground-mounted R3-9b sign may be used as an alternate to or
a supplement to the overhead-mounted R3-9a sign. The legend BEGIN
or END may be used within the border of the main sign itself, or
on a plaque mounted immediately above it.
Support:
Signing is especially helpful to drivers in areas where the two-way
left turn only maneuver is new, in areas subject to environmental
conditions that frequently obscure the pavement markings, and on
peripheral streets with two-way left turn only lanes leading to
an extensive system of routes with two-way left turn only lanes.
Figure 2B-5 Center and Reversibile Lane Signs
Section 2B.25 Reversible Lane Control Signs (R3-9d, R3-9f through R3-9i)
Option:
A reversible lane may be used for through traffic (with left turns
either permitted or prohibited) in alternating directions during
different periods of the day, and the lane may be used for exclusive
left turns in one or both directions during other periods of the
day as well. Reversible Lane Control (R3-9d, R3-9f through R3-9i)
signs (see Figure 2B-5) may either be static type or changeable
message type. These signs may be either ground or overhead mounted.
Standard:
Ground-mounted Reversible Lane Control signs shall be used only
as a supplement to overhead signs or signals. Ground-mounted signs
shall be identical in design to the overhead signs and an additional
legend such as CENTER LANE shall be added to the sign (R3-9f) to
indicate which lane is controlled. For both word messages and symbols,
this legend shall be at the top of the sign.
Where it is determined by an engineering study that lane-use control signals or physical barriers are not necessary, the lane shall be controlled by overhead Reversible Lane Control signs (see Figure 2B-6).
Figure 2B-6 Location of Reversible Two-Way Left-Turn Signs
Option:
Reversing traffic flow may be controlled with pavement markings
and Reversible Lane Control signs (without the use of lane control
signals), when all of the following conditions are met:
- Only one lane is being reversed.
- An engineering study indicates that the use of Reversible Lane Control signs alone would result in an acceptable level of safety and efficiency.
- There are no unusual or complex operations in the reversible lane pattern.
Standard:
Reversible Lane Control signs shall contain the legend or symbols
designating the allowable uses of the lane and the time periods
such uses are allowed. Where symbols and legend are used, their
meanings shall be as shown in Table 2B-2.
Reversible Lane Control signs shall consist of a white background with a black legend and border, except for the R3-9d sign, where the color red is used.
Symbol signs, such as the R3-9d sign, shall consist of the appropriate symbol in the upper portion of the sign with the appropriate times of the day and days of the week below it. All times of the day and days of the week shall be accounted for on the sign to eliminate confusion to the road user.
In situations where more than one message is conveyed to the road user, such as on the R3-9d sign, the sign legend shall be arranged as follows:
- The prohibition or restriction message is the primary legend and shall be on the top for word message signs and to the far left for symbol signs;
- The permissive use message shall be shown as the second legend; and
- The OTHER TIMES message shall be shown at the bottom for word message signs and to the far right for symbol signs.
Option:
The symbol signs may also include a downward pointing arrow with
the legend THIS LANE. The term OTHER TIMES may be used for either
the symbol or word message sign.
Standard:
A Reversible Lane Control sign shall be mounted over the center
of the lane that is being reversed and shall be perpendicular to
the roadway alignment.
If the vertical or horizontal alignment is curved to the degree that a driver would be unable to see at least one sign, and preferably two signs, then additional overhead signs shall be installed. The placement of the signs shall be such that the driver will have a definite indication of the lanes specifically reserved for use at any given time. Special consideration shall be given to major generators introducing traffic between the normal sign placement.
Transitions at the entry to and exit from a section of roadway with reversible lanes shall be carefully reviewed, and advance signs shall be installed to notify or warn drivers of the boundaries of the reversible lane controls. The R3-9g or R3-9h signs shall be used for this purpose.
Option:
More than one sign may be used at the termination of the reversible
lane to emphasize the importance of the message (R3-9i).
Standard:
Flashing beacons, if used to accentuate the overhead Reversible
Lane Control signs, shall comply with the applicable requirements
for flashing beacons in Chapter 4K.
When used in conjunction with Reversible Lane Control signs, the Turn Prohibition signs (R3-1 to R3-4, R3-18) shall be mounted overhead and separate from the Reversible Lane Control signs. The Turn Prohibition signs shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section 2B.19.
Guidance:
For additional emphasis, a supplemental plaque stating the distance
of the prohibition, such as NEXT 1.6 km (NEXT 1 MILE), should be
added to the Turn Prohibition signs that are used in conjunction
with Reversible Lane Control signs.
If used, overhead signs should be located at intervals not greater than 400 m (0.25 mi). The bottom of the overhead Reversible Lane Control signs should not be more than 5.8 m (19 ft) above the pavement grade.
Where more than one sign is used at the termination of a reversible lane, they should be at least 75 m (250 ft) apart. Longer distances between signs are appropriate for streets with speeds over 60 km/h (35 mph), but the separation should not exceed 300 m (1,000 ft).
Left-turning vehicles have a significant impact on the safety and efficiency of a reversible lane operation. If an exclusive left-turn lane or two-way left-turn lane cannot be incorporated into the lane-use pattern for a particular peak or off-peak period, consideration should be given to prohibiting left turns and U-turns during that time period.
Section 2B.26 Preferential Only Lane Signs (R3-10 through R3-15)
Support:
Preferential only lanes are lanes designated for special traffic
uses such as high-occupancy vehicles (HOVs), light rail, buses,
taxis, or bicycles. Preferential only lane treatments might be as
simple as restricting a turning lane to a certain class of vehicles
during peak periods, or as sophisticated as providing a separate
roadway system within a highway corridor for certain vehicles.
Information regarding Preferential Only Lane signs for bicycle lanes is contained in Section 9B.04.
Option:
Preferential only lane assignments may be made on a full-time or
part-time basis.
Guidance:
Preferential Only Lane sign spacing should be determined by engineering
judgment based on prevailing speed, block length, distances from
adjacent intersections, and other considerations.
Support:
The symbol and word message that appears on a particular Preferential
Only Lane sign will vary based on the specific type of allowed traffic
and on other related operational constraints that have been established
for a particular lane, such as an HOV lane, a bus lane, or a taxi
lane. Section 2B.27 contains information regarding the restriction
of the use of the diamond symbol to HOV lanes only. The requirements
for guide and regulatory signs in advance of all preferential only
lanes on freeways are provided in Section
2E.59.
Standard:
When a preferential only lane is established, the Preferential Only
Lane signs (see Figure 2B-7) and pavement markings (see Sections
3B.22
and 3B.23)
for these lanes shall be used to advise road users.
At the end of a preferential only lane, a Lane Ends (R3-12a or R3-15a) sign shall be used.
Figure 2B-7 Examples of Preferential Only Lane Signs
Guidance:
Ground-mounted Preferential Only Lane (R3-10, R3-11, and R3-12 series)
signs should be installed where preferential only lanes are implemented
on freeways, expressways, and conventional roads.
Support:
The sizes for Preferential Only Lane signs will differ to reflect
the design speeds for each type of roadway facility. Table
2B-1 provides sizes for each type of roadway facility.
Guidance:
The size of the ground-mounted Preferential Only Lane Operational
(R3-11 series) signs should remain consistent to accommodate any
manual addition or subtraction of a single line of text for each
sign.
Support:
Consistent sign sizes are beneficial for agencies when ordering
sign materials, as well as when making text changes to existing
signs if changes occur to operating times or occupancy restrictions
in the future. For example, the R3-11c sign has space for one line
located below “24 HOURS” if an agency desires to add
additional information (such as “Mon. – Fri.”),
yet the R3-11c sign has the same dimensions as the other R3-11 series
signs.
Guidance:
The decision to use a specific ground-mounted or overhead sign for
a preferential only lane should be based on an engineering study
that considers the available space, the existing signs for adjoining
general purpose lanes, roadway and traffic characteristics, the
proximity of other overhead signing, the ability to install overhead
signs, and any other unique local factors.
Support:
Figures 2E-46
through 2E-52
show example signing layouts using the R3-10 through R3-15 series
signs for various preferential only lane applications.
Standard:
The R3-10, R3-11, R3-11a, R3-11c, R3-13, R3-13a, R3-14 and R3-14a
signs shall be used exclusively with preferential only lanes for
high-occupancy vehicles to indicate the particular occupancy requirement
and time restrictions applying to that lane. The R3-10a, R3-11b,
and R3-14b signs shall be used in situations where a preferential
only lane is not an HOV lane, but is designated for use by other
types of vehicles (such as bus and/or taxi use).
When used, the ground-mounted Preferential Only Lane Operational (R3-11 series) signs shall be located adjacent to the preferential only lane, and the overhead Preferential Only Lane Operational (R3-14 series) signs shall be mounted directly over the lane.
The legend format of the ground-mounted Preferential Only Lane Operational (R3-11 series) signs shall have the following sequence:
- Top Lines: Lanes applicable, such as "RIGHT LANE", "RIGHT 2 LANES", or "THIS LANE"
- Middle Lines: Eligible uses, such as "HOV 2+ ONLY" (or 3+ or 4+), "BUSES ONLY", or other applicable turning movements
- Bottom Lines: Applicable time and day, such as "7–9 AM" or "6:30– 9:30 AM, MON-FRI"
The legend format of the overhead Preferential Only Lane Operational (R3-14 series) signs shall have the following sequence:
- Top Line: Eligible uses, such as "HOV 2+ ONLY" (or 3+ or 4+), "BUSES ONLY", or other types of vehicles
- Bottom Lines: Applicable time and day, with the time and day placed above the down arrow, such as "7–9 AM" or "6:30–9:30 AM, MON-FRI". When the operating periods exceed the available line width, the hours and days of the week shall be stacked as shown for the R3-14a sign in Figure 2B-7.
Option:
The diamond symbol may be used instead of the word message HOV.
Standard:
When the diamond symbol (or HOV abbreviation) is used without text
on the ground-mounted Preferential Only Lane (R3-10 series, R3-11
series, and R3-12 series) signs, it shall be centered on the top
line of the sign. When the diamond symbol (or HOV abbreviation)
is used with associated text on the ground-mounted Preferential
Only Lane (R3-10 series, R3-11 series, and R3-12 series) signs,
it shall appear to the left of the associated text. When the diamond
symbol is used on the overhead Preferential Only Lane (R3-13, R3-13a,
R3-14, and R3-14a) signs, it shall appear in the top left quadrant.
The diamond symbol shall not be used on the bus, taxi, or bicycle
Preferential Only Lane signs. The diamond symbol for the R3-15 and
R3-15a signs shall appear on the left side of the sign.
Guidance:
The Preferential Only Lane Ahead (R3-10a, R3-12, and R3-15) signs
should be used for advance notification of preferential only lanes.
Standard:
The R3-10, R3-10b, R3-13, and R3-13a signs shall be used in situations
where agencies determine it is appropriate to provide a sign that
defines the operational strategy (such as minimum occupancy or types
of vehicles) that is being used to manage or regulate the vehicles
that are permitted to use a preferential only lane.
Guidance:
The legend format of the R3-10 and R3-13 signs should have this
sequence:
- Top Line: "HOV 2+ ONLY" (or 3+ or 4+ if appropriate)
- Bottom Lines: "2 OR MORE PERSONS PER VEHICLE" (or 3 or 4 if appropriate)
Option:
Changeable message signs may be used to supplement static signs
where travel conditions change or where multiple types of operational
strategies (such as variable occupancy requirements, vehicle types,
or pricing policies) are used and varied throughout the day or week
to manage the use of, control of, or access to preferential only
lanes.
Standard:
When changeable message signs (see Section
2A.07) are used as regulatory signs for preferential only lanes,
they shall be the required sign size and shall display the required
letter height and legend format that corresponds to the type of
roadway facility and design speed.
Option:
The ground-mounted Preferential Only Lane Operational (R3-11 series)
signs and the overhead Preferential Only Lane Operational (R3-14
series) signs may be used to supplement changeable message signs
that are used to convey preferential only lane restrictions.
Where additional movements are permitted from a preferential only lane on an approach to an intersection, the format and words used in the legend in the middle lines on the ground-mounted Preferential Only Lane Operational (R3-11 series) signs and on the overhead Preferential Only Lane Operational (R3-14 series) signs may be modified to accommodate the permitted movements (such as "RIGHT TURNS ONLY").
Guidance:
The Inherently Low Emission Vehicle (ILEV) (R3-10b) sign should
be used when it is permissible for a properly labeled and certified
ILEV, regardless of the number of occupants, to use an HOV lane.
When used, the ILEV signs should be ground-mounted in advance of
and at intervals along the HOV lane based upon engineering judgment.
The R3-10b sign is only applicable to HOV lanes and should not be
used with other preferential only lane applications.
Support:
Inherently low emission vehicles are defined by the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) as vehicles having no fuel vapor (hydrocarbon)
emissions. These vehicles must be certified by the EPA as meeting
the emissions standards and requirements specified in 40 CFR 88-311-93
and 40 CFR 88.312-93 (c).
Section 2B.27 Preferential Only Lanes for High-Occupancy Vehicles (HOVs)
Standard:
The agencies that own and operate preferential only lanes for high-occupancy
vehicles (HOV lanes) shall have the authority and responsibility
to determine how they are operated and the occupancy requirements
for vehicles operating in HOV lanes. The minimum occupancy requirement
shall be two occupants per vehicle.
The requirements for a minimum number of occupants in a vehicle to use an HOV lane shall be in effect for most, or all, of at least one of the usual times of the day when the demand to travel is greatest (such as morning or afternoon peak travel periods) and the traffic congestion problems on the roadway and adjoining transportation corridor are at their worst.
The HOV signs (see Section 2B.26) shall display the minimum allowable vehicle occupancy requirement established for each HOV lane.
The vehicle occupancy requirement established for an HOV lane shall be referenced immediately after the word message HOV or the diamond symbol. The diamond symbol shall be restricted for use with HOV lanes only.
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) shall be consulted if a significant operational change is proposed that could reasonably be expected to affect a specific HOV lane or portions of the HOV system that were funded or approved by FHWA. This shall include portions of the local, regional, or Federal-aid highway system, where operational changes might significantly impact the operation of one HOV lane or portions of the regional HOV system. To assure consistency with the provisions of Titles 23 and 49 of the United States Code (USC), the important issues and possible impacts of any significant operational changes shall be reviewed to determine if any Federal approval is required.
In accordance with the "Federal-Aid Highway Program Guidance on High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lanes" (see Section 1A.11), a proposed project, including a proposed test or demonstration project, that seeks to significantly change the operation of the HOV lanes for any length of time shall require a Federal review as outlined in Section 2 of the "Federal-Aid Highway Program Guidance on High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lanes" prior to initiating such a project.
Support:
FHWA Division Offices, with involvement from the Federal Transit
Administration (FTA), are responsible for reviewing proposals to
significantly change the operation of HOV lanes. Federal interests
in this review include commitments made during the National Environmental
Policy Act process as described in Title 23 CFR, Part 771, in project
agreements, transportation planning requirements, and transportation
conformity requirements under the Clean Air Act (40 CFR, Part 51).
Proposals to adjust only the HOV lane hours of operation during the day (for example, minor changes in hours during peak travel periods) or the occupancy requirements (for example, HOV 3+ to HOV 2+) are not typically considered significant operational changes and might not require an explicit Federal review or approval.
Any action that has the potential to adversely affect the area’s flow of traffic, roadway and traveler safety, or the environment might be considered to be a significant operational change. Any proposal to significantly adjust the hours of operation, or to convert an HOV lane to a general purpose travel lane, would be considered a significant operational change to the original project design concept or scope. Examples of significant operational changes could include:
- Switching from 24-hour HOV lane operations to only a portion of the day or week;
- Implementing a pricing option to an existing HOV lane (such as HOT lane or toll lane);
- Significantly reducing the hours of operation of an HOV lane that is operational during only one peak travel period; or
- Managing or operating the HOV lane in a manner that renders it functionally inoperable or obsolete (such as not providing enforcement of the occupancy requirement).
Guidance:
An engineering study based on the current and estimated future travel
demand for a corridor and facility should be the basis for determining
when, during a typical day, there should be a minimum occupancy
requirement for a vehicle to use an HOV lane.
Option:
HOV lanes may be operated on a 24-hour basis for extended periods
of the day, during peak travel periods only, during special events,
or during other activities.
HOV lanes may take many forms depending on the level of usage and the design of the facility. They may be physically separated from the other travel lanes by a barrier or median, or they may be concurrent with other travel lanes and be separated only by longitudinal pavement markings. Physically separated HOV lanes may be operated in a constant direction or may be operated as reversible lanes.
Agencies may select from either the HOV abbreviation or the diamond symbol to reference the HOV lane designation.
Support:
Inherently low emission vehicle (ILEV) eligibility, testing and
certification requirements, labeling, and other regulatory provisions
are developed and administered through the Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA). EPA is the only entity with the authority to certify
ILEVs. Vehicle manufacturers must request the EPA to grant an ILEV
certification for any vehicle to be considered and labeled as meeting
those standards. According to the EPA, 1996 was the first year that
they certified any ILEVs. EPA regulations specify that ILEVs must
meet the emission standards specified in 40 CFR 88.311-93 and their
labeling must be in accordance with 40 CFR 88.312-93(c). EPA established
the ILEV concept to recognize vehicles with no fuel vapor (hydrocarbons)
emissions. Zero emission vehicles (electric powered vehicles) that
have no emissions are the only other type of clean fuel vehicles
that are allowed to use HOV lanes.
Option:
Agencies may permit a vehicle with less than the required number
of occupants to operate on HOV lanes if:
- The vehicle is properly labeled and certified as an ILEV and the lane is not a bus only HOV lane; or
- The HOV lanes are part of a project that is participating in the FHWA Value Pricing Pilot Program (see Section 2 of the "Federal-Aid Highway Program Guidance on High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lanes").
Standard:
Motorcycles shall be permitted to use HOV lanes that receive Federal-aid
program funding.
Section 2B.28 Preferential Only Lane Sign Applications and Placement
Standard:
Overhead Preferential Only Lane (R3-13 series, R3-14 series, and
R3-15 series) signs shall only be installed along preferential only
lanes on freeways and expressways. These overhead signs shall be
installed on the side of the roadway where the entrance to the preferential
only lane is located and any appropriate adjustments shall be made
to the sign message. The sign sizes shall differ between freeways
and expressways as provided in Table
2B-1 to reflect the different design speeds for each type of
roadway.
An R3-13 or R3-13a sign, which defines the occupancy requirement, shall be installed at least 800 m (0.5 mi) in advance of the beginning or initial entry point to an HOV lane. These signs shall only be displayed in advance of the beginning or initial entry point to HOV lanes.
A ground-mounted Preferential Only Lane Operational (R3-11, R3-11a, R3-11b, or R3-11d) sign shall be installed at the beginning, initial entry point, intermediate access points, and direct access ramps to all types of preferential only lanes. The overhead Preferential Only Lane Operational (R3-14 series) signs shall be installed only at the beginning or initial entry point to all types of preferential only lanes.
The ground-mounted Preferential Only Lane Ends 800 m (1/2 Mile) (R3-12b) sign shall be installed at least 800 m (0.5 mi) in advance of the termination of an HOV lane. The ground-mounted Preferential Only Lane Ends (R3-12a) sign shall be installed at the point where the preferential only lane restriction ends. All longitudinal pavement markings, as well as word and symbol pavement markings, associated with the preferential only lane shall end where the R3-12a sign designating the end of the preferential only lane restriction is installed.
Option:
Additional ground-mounted Preferential Only Lane (R3-10, R3-11,
R3-11a, R3-11b, or R3-11c) signs may be provided along the length
of a preferential only lane.
Overhead Preferential Only Lane Ahead (R3-15) signs may be placed approximately 1.6 km (1 mi) and 3.2 km (2 mi) in advance of the beginning or initial entry points to any type of preferential only lane.
The ground-mounted Preferential Only Lane Ahead (R3-12) sign may be installed at a minimum of 1.6 km (1 mi) in advance of the beginning or initial entry point to any type of preferential only lane.
Guidance:
When Preferential Only Lane signs are used, the decision to use
a specific ground-mounted or overhead sign should be based on an
engineering study that considers the available space, the existing
signs for the adjoining general purpose traffic lanes, roadway and
traffic characteristics, the proximity to existing overhead signing,
the ability to install overhead signs, and any other unique local
factors.
Standard:
For all barrier-separated preferential only lanes, an overhead Preferential
Only Lane Operational (R3-14 series) sign shall be used at the beginning
or initial entry point, and at any intermediate access points or
gaps in the barrier where vehicles are allowed to legally access
the barrier-separated preferential only lanes. Ground-mounted Preferential
Only Lane Operational (R3-11 series) signs shall be used only as
a supplement to the overhead signs at the beginning or initial entry
point, or at any intermediate access points or gaps in the barrier.
Guidance:
For all barrier-separated preferential only lanes, an overhead Preferential
Only Lane Ahead (R3-15) sign should be installed and located at
least 1.6 km (1 mi) in advance of the beginning or initial entry
point.
Option:
For barrier-separated preferential only lanes, ground-mounted R3-10
signs defining the occupancy requirement may be alternated in series
with Preferential Only Lane Operational (R3-11, R3-11a, R3-11b,
or R3-11c) signs. These signs may be located at intervals of approximately
1 km (0.6 mi) along the length of the preferential only lane, at
intermediate entry points, and at designated enforcement areas as
defined by the operating agency.
For barrier-separated reversible-flow preferential only lanes, Preferential Only Lane signs may be either static or changeable message type.
Standard:
For buffer-separated preferential only lanes (painted buffer of
0.6 m (2 ft) or more), an overhead Preferential Only Lane Operational
(R3-14 series) sign shall be used at the beginning or initial entry
point, and at intermediate access points or gaps where vehicles
are allowed to legally access the buffer-separated preferential
only lane. Ground-mounted R3-10 signs defining the occupancy requirement
shall be located and alternated with Preferential Only Lane Operational
(R3-11 series) signs in series at intervals not greater than 1 km
(0.6 mi) along the length of the preferential only lane, at designated
gaps in the buffer where vehicles are allowed to legally access
the preferential only lane, and within designated enforcement areas
as defined by the operating agency.
Option:
For buffer-separated preferential only lanes, overhead Preferential
Only Lane Operational (R3-14 series) signs may be used at specific
locations and intervals along the length of the preferential only
lane to supplement the ground-mounted R3-10 signs defining the occupancy
requirement and the Preferential Only Lane Operational (R3-11 series)
signs based on an engineering study.
Standard:
For concurrent-flow preferential only lanes, ground-mounted R3-10
signs defining the occupancy requirement shall be located and alternated
with Preferential Only Lane Operational (R3-11 series) signs in
series at intervals not greater than 1 km (0.6 mi) along the length
of the preferential only lane.
Option:
For concurrent-flow preferential only lanes, overhead Preferential
Only Lane Operational (R3-14 series) signs may be used at specific
locations and intervals along the length of the preferential only
lane to supplement the ground-mounted R3-10 signs defining the occupancy
requirement and the Preferential Only Lane Operational (R3-11 series)
signs based on an engineering study.
Standard:
For direct access ramps to preferential only lanes, a ground-mounted
R3-10 sign defining the occupancy requirement and a Preferential
Only Lane Operational (R3-11 series) sign shall be used at the beginning
or initial entry point for all types of direct access ramps that
provide access or lead to preferential only lanes.
Option:
For direct access ramps to preferential only lanes, an overhead
Preferential Only Lane Operational (R3-14 series) sign may be used
at the beginning or initial entry point to supplement the required
ground-mounted signs.
Support:
Section 2B.26 contains provisions regarding the use of changeable
message signs for preferential only lanes.
Section 2E.59 contains additional provisions regarding signing for preferential only lanes on freeway and expressway facilities. Figures 2E-46 through 2E-52 show application and placement examples for Preferential Only Lane signs for a variety of preferential only lane situations.
Section 2B.29 DO NOT PASS Sign (R4-1)
Option:
The DO NOT PASS (R4-1) sign (see Figure 2B-8) may be used in addition
to pavement markings (see Section
3B.02) to emphasize the restriction on passing. The DO NOT PASS
sign may be used at the beginning of, and at intervals within, a
zone through which sight distance is restricted or where other conditions
make overtaking and passing inappropriate.
Figure 2B-8 Passing, Keep Right, and Truck Lane Signs
If signing is needed on the left side of the roadway for additional emphasis, NO PASSING ZONE (W14-3) signs may be used (see Section 2C.35).
Support:
Standards for determining the location and extent of no-passing
zone pavement markings are set forth in Section 3B.02.
Section 2B.30 PASS WITH CARE Sign (R4-2)
Guidance:
The PASS WITH CARE (R4-2) sign (see Figure 2B-8) should be installed
at the end of a no-passing zone if a DO NOT PASS sign has been installed
at the beginning of the zone.
Section 2B.31 SLOWER TRAFFIC KEEP RIGHT Sign (R4-3)
Option:
The SLOWER TRAFFIC KEEP RIGHT (R4-3) sign (see Figure 2B-8) may
be used on multi-lane roadways to reduce unnecessary lane changing.
Guidance:
If used, the SLOWER TRAFFIC KEEP RIGHT sign should be installed
just beyond the beginning of a multi-lane pavement, and at selected
locations where there is a tendency on the part of some road users
to drive in the left lane (or lanes) below the normal speed of traffic.
This sign should not be used on the approach to an interchange or
through an interchange area.
Section 2B.32 Slow Moving Traffic Lane Signs (R4-5, R4-6)
Support:
The Slow Moving Traffic Lane signs (see Figure 2B-8) are used to
direct vehicles into an extra lane that has been provided for slow-moving
vehicles.
Guidance:
If an extra lane has been provided for slow-moving traffic, a SLOWER
TRAFFIC KEEP RIGHT (R4-3) sign, TRUCKS USE RIGHT LANE (R4-5) sign,
or other appropriate sign should be installed at the beginning of
the lane. A TRUCK LANE (R4-6) sign, with the appropriate distance
shown, should be installed in advance of the lane.
Option:
The SLOWER TRAFFIC KEEP RIGHT sign may be used as a supplement or
as an alternative to the TRUCKS USE RIGHT LANE sign. Both signs
may be used on multi-lane roadways to improve capacity and reduce
lane changing.
Guidance:
If an extra lane has been provided for slow-moving traffic, a Lane
Ends sign (see Section 2C.33)
should be installed in advance of the point where the extra lane
ends. Appropriate pavement markings should be installed at both
the beginning and the end of the extra lane (see Section
3B.09 and Figure 3B-12).
Section 2B.33 Keep Right and Keep Left Signs (R4-7, R4-8)
Option:
The Keep Right (R4-7) sign (see Figure 2B-8) may be used at locations
where it is necessary for traffic to pass only to the right of a
roadway feature or obstruction. The Keep Left (R4-8) sign (see Figure
2B-8) may be used at locations where it is necessary for traffic
to pass only to the left of a roadway feature or obstruction.
Guidance:
If used, the Keep Right sign should be installed as close as practical
to approach ends of raised medians, parkways, islands, underpass
piers, and at other locations where it is not readily apparent that
traffic is required to keep to the right. The sign should be mounted
on the face of or just in front of a pier or other obstruction separating
opposite directions of traffic in the center of the highway such
that traffic will have to pass to the right of the sign.
Standard:
The Keep Right sign shall not be installed on the right side of
the roadway in a position where traffic must pass to the left of
the sign.
Option:
The Keep Right sign may be omitted at intermediate ends of divisional
islands and medians.
Word message KEEP RIGHT (LEFT) with an arrow (R4-7a or R4-7b) signs (see Figure 2B-8) may be used instead of the R4-7 or R4-8 symbol signs.
Where the obstruction obscures the Keep Right sign, the minimum placement height may be increased for better sign visibility.
