Change List for the 2009 Edition of the MUTCD
Part 8

CHAPTER 8A. GENERAL

Section 8A.01 Introduction

Support:

Whenever the acronym "LRT" is used in Part 8, it refers to "light rail transit."

Part 8 describes the traffic control devices that are used at highway-rail and highway-LRT grade crossings. Unless otherwise provided in the text or on a figure or table, the provisions of Part 8 are applicable to both highway-rail and highway-LRT grade crossings. When the phrase "grade crossing" is used by itself without the prefix "highway-rail" or "highway-LRT," it refers to both highway-rail and highway-LRT grade crossings.

Traffic control for highway-rail grade crossings includes all signs, signals, markings, other warning devices, and their supports along highways approaching and at highway-rail grade crossings. The function of this traffic control is to permit reasonably safe promote safety and provide efficient effective operation of both rail and/or LRT and highway traffic at highway-rail grade crossings.

For purposes of design, installation, operation, and maintenance of traffic control devices at highway-rail grade crossings, it is recognized that the crossing of the highway and rail tracks is situated on a right-of-way available for the joint use of both highway traffic and railroad or LRT traffic.

The highway agency or authority with jurisdiction and the regulatory agency with statutory authority, if applicable, jointly determine the need and selection of devices at a highway-rail grade crossing.

In Part 8, the combination of devices selected or installed at a specific highway-rail grade crossing is referred to as a "traffic control system."

Standard:

The traffic control devices, systems, and practices described herein in this Manual shall be used at all highway-rail grade crossings open to public travel, consistent with Federal, State, and local laws and regulations.

Support:

Part 10 provides standards and guidelines for the design, installation, and operation of traffic control devices at grade crossings of highway traffic and light rail transit vehicles to facilitate the reasonably safe, orderly, and integrated movement of all traffic. The principles in Section 8A.01 are the same but, because Part 8 also describes the traffic control devices that are used in locations where light rail LRT vehicles sometimes operate are operating along streets and highways in mixed traffic with automotive vehicles, the traffic controls and associated standards and guidelines for highway-light rail transit grade crossings presented in Part 10 can be different than those presented in Part 8. relocated from Section 10A.01

Light rail transit LRT is a mode of metropolitan transportation that employs light rail transit LRT vehicles (commonly known as light rail vehicles, streetcars, or trolleys) that operate on rails in streets in mixed traffic, and LRT traffic that operates in semi-exclusive rights-of-way, or in exclusive rights-of-way. Grade crossings with light rail transit LRT can occur at intersections or at midblock locations, including public and private driveways. relocated from Section 10A.01

An initial educational campaign along with an ongoing program to continue to educate new drivers is beneficial when introducing light rail LRT operations to an area and, hence, new traffic control devices. relocated from Section 10A.01

Light rail LRT alignments can be grouped into one of the following three types: relocated from Section 10A.01

Exclusive: An light rail transit LRT right-of-way that is grade-separated or protected by a fence or traffic barrier. Motor vehicles, pedestrians, and bicycles are prohibited within the right-of-way. Subways and aerial structures are included within this group. This type of alignment does not have grade crossings and is not further addressed in Part 8.
Semi-exclusive: An light rail transit LRT alignment that is in a separate right-of-way or along a street or railroad right-of-way where motor vehicles, pedestrians, and bicycles have limited access and cross at designated locations only.
Mixed-use: An alignment where light rail transit LRT operates in mixed traffic with all types of road users. This includes streets, transit malls, and pedestrian malls where the right-of-way is shared.

Standard:

Where light rail transit LRT and railroads use the same tracks or adjacent tracks, the traffic control devices, systems, and practices for highway-rail grade crossings described in Part 8 shall be used. relocated from Section 10A.01

Standard Support:

To promote an understanding of common terminology between highway and railroad and LRT signaling issues, the following definitions shall be used: and acronyms pertaining to Part 8 are provided in Sections 1A.13 and 1A.14.

All of the definitions previously in this Section were relocated to Section 1A.13, except Definitions 6 and 15, which were already present in Section 1A.13

Support:

Section 8A.01 contains a set of definitions, most of which also apply to Part 10. relocated from Section 10A.01

Section 8A.02 Use of Standard Devices, Systems, and Practices at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings

Support:

Because of the large number of significant variables to be considered, no single standard system of traffic control devices is universally applicable for all highway-rail grade crossings.

Guidance:

The appropriate traffic control system to be used at a highway-rail grade crossing should be determined by an engineering study involving both the highway agency and the railroad company.

Option:

The engineering study may include the Highway-Rail Intersection (HRI) components of the National Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) architecture, which is a USDOT accepted method for linking the highway, vehicles, and traffic management systems with rail operations and wayside equipment.

Support:

More detail on Highway-Rail Intersection components is available from the USDOT's Federal Railroad Administration, 1120 Vermont Ave., NW1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE, Washington, DC 20590, or www.fra.dot.gov.

Standard:

Traffic control devices, systems, and practices shall be consistent with the design and application of the Standards contained herein in this Manual.

Before any new highway-rail grade crossing traffic control system is installed or before modifications are made to an existing system, approval shall be obtained from the highway agency with the jurisdictional and/or statutory authority, and from the railroad company.

Guidance:

To stimulate effective responses from vehicle operators and pedestrians road users, these devices, systems, and practices should use the five basic considerations employed generally for traffic control devices and described fully in Section 1A.02: design, placement, operation, maintenance, and uniformity.

Support:

Many other details of highway-rail grade crossing traffic control systems that are not set forth in Part 8 are contained in the publications listed in Section 1A.11, including the "2000 AREMA Communications & Signals Manual" published by the American Railway Engineering & Maintenance-of-Way Association (AREMA) and the 2006 edition of "Preemption of Traffic Signals Near Railroad Crossings" published by the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE).

Section 10A.02 8A.03 Use of Standard Devices, Systems, and Practices at Highway-LRT Grade Crossings

Support:

The combination of devices selected or installed at a specific highway-light rail transit highway-LRT grade crossing is referred to as a Light Rail Transit Traffic Control System. relocated from Section 10B.01

Because of the large number of significant variables to be considered, no single standard system of traffic control devices is universally applicable for all highway-light rail transit highway-LRT grade crossings.

For the safety and integrity of operations by highway and light rail transit LRT users, the highway agency with jurisdiction, the regulatory agency with statutory authority, if applicable, and the light rail transit LRT authority jointly determine the need and selection of traffic control devices and the assignment of priority to light rail transit LRT at a highway-light rail transit highway-LRT grade crossing. relocated from Section 10B.01

The normal rules of the road and traffic control priority identified in the "Uniform Vehicle Code" govern the order assigned to the movement of vehicles at an intersection unless the local agency determines that it is appropriate to assign a higher priority to light rail transit LRT. Examples of different types of light rail transit LRT priority control include separate traffic control signal phases for light rail transit LRT movements, restriction of movement of roadway vehicles in favor of light rail transit LRT operations, and preemption of highway traffic signal control to accommodate light rail transit LRT movements. relocated from Section 10B.01

Guidance:

The appropriate traffic control system to be used at a highway-light rail transit highway-LRT grade crossing should be determined by an engineering study conducted by the transit LRT or highway agency in cooperation with other appropriate State and local organizations.

Standard:

Traffic control devices, systems, and practices shall be consistent with the design and application of the Standards contained herein in this Manual.

The traffic control devices, systems, and practices described herein in this Manual shall be used at all highway-light rail transit highway-LRT grade crossings.

Before any new highway-light rail transit highway-LRT grade crossing traffic control system is installed or before modifications are made to an existing system, approval shall be obtained from the local agencies highway agency having with the jurisdictional and/or statutory authority to grant such approval, and from the LRT agency.

Guidance:

Support:

Many other details of highway-light rail transit highway-LRT grade crossing traffic control systems that are not set forth in Part 8 are contained in the publications listed in Section 1A.11.

Standard:

Highway-light rail transit Highway-LRT grade crossings in semi-exclusive alignments shall be equipped with a combination of automatic gates and flashing-light signals, or flashing-light signals only, or traffic control signals, unless an engineering study indicates that the use of Crossbuck Assemblies, STOP signs, or YIELD, or advance warning signs alone would be adequate. relocated from Section 10B.01

Option:

Highway-light rail transit Highway-LRT grade crossings in mixed-use alignments may be equipped with traffic control signals unless an engineering study indicates that the use of Crossbuck Assemblies, STOP signs, or YIELD, or advance warning signs alone would be adequate. relocated from Section 10B.01

Support:

Sections 8B.03 and 8B.04 contain provisions regarding the use and placement of Crossbuck signs and Crossbuck Assemblies. Section 8B.05 describes the appropriate conditions for the use of STOP or YIELD signs alone at a highway-light rail transit highway-LRT grade crossing. Sections 8C.10 and 8C.11 contain provisions regarding the use of traffic control signals at highway-LRT grade crossings. relocated from Section 10B.01

Section 8A.02 8A.04 Uniform Provisions

Standard:

All signs used in highway-rail grade crossing traffic control systems shall be retroreflectorized or illuminated as described in Section 2A.07 to show the same shape and similar color to an approaching road user during both day and night.

No sign or signal shall be located in the center of an undivided highway, except in unless it is crashworthy (breakaway, yielding, or shielded with a longitudinal barrier or crash cushion) or unless it is placed on a raised island.

Guidance:

Such Any signs or signals placed on a raised island in the center of an undivided highway should be installed with a clearance of at least 2 feet from the outer edge of the raised island to the nearest edge of the sign or signal, except as allowed permitted in Section 2A.19.

Where the distance between tracks, measured along the highway between the inside rails, exceeds 100 feet, additional signs or other appropriate traffic control devices should be used to inform approaching road users of the long distance to cross the tracks.

Section 8A.03 8A.05 Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Elimination

Guidance:

Because highway-rail grade crossings are a potential source of crashes and congestion, agencies should conduct engineering studies to determine the cost and benefits of eliminating these crossings.

Standard:

When a highway-rail grade crossing is eliminated, the traffic control devices for the crossing shall be removed.

If the existing traffic control devices at a multiple-track highway-rail grade crossing become improperly placed or inaccurate because of the removal of some of the tracks, the existing devices shall be relocated and/or modified.

Guidance:

Any highway-rail grade crossing that cannot be justified should be eliminated.

Where a roadway is removed from a highway-rail grade crossing, the roadway approaches in the railroad or LRT right-of-way should also be removed and appropriate signs and object markers should be placed at the roadway end in accordance with Section 2C.66.

Where a railroad or LRT is eliminated at a highway-rail grade crossing, the tracks should be removed or paved over covered.

Option:

Based on engineering judgment, the TRACKS OUT OF SERVICE (R8-9) sign (see Figure 8B-1) may be temporarily installed until the tracks are removed or paved over covered. The length of time before the tracks will be removed or paved over covered may be considered in making the decision as to whether to install the sign.

Section 8C.01 8A.06 Illumination at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings relocated from Chapter 8C

Option Support:

Illumination may be is sometimes installed at or adjacent to a highway-rail grade crossing.

Guidance:

If an engineering study is conducted and if the engineering study determines that in order to provide better nighttime visibility of the trains or LRT equipment and the highway-rail grade crossing is needed (for example, where a substantial amount of railroad or LRT operations is are conducted at night, where train speeds are low and highway-rail grade crossings are blocked for long extended periods of time, or where crash history indicates that drivers road users experience difficulty in seeing trains or LRT equipment or traffic control devices during hours of darkness), then illumination should be installed at and adjacent to the highway-rail grade crossing.

Support:

Recommended types and locations of luminaires for illuminating highway-rail grade crossings illumination are contained in the American National Standards Institute's (ANSI) "Practice for Roadway Lighting RP-8," which is available from the Illuminating Engineering Society (see Section 1A.11).

Section 8A.07 Quiet Zone Treatments at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings

Support:

49 CFR Part 222 (Use of Locomotive Horns at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings; Final Rule) prescribes Quiet Zone requirements and treatments.

Standard:

Any traffic control device and its application where used as part of a Quiet Zone shall comply with all applicable provisions of the MUTCD.

Section 8A.05 8A.08 Temporary Traffic Control Zones

Support:

Temporary traffic control planning provides for continuity of operations (such as movement of traffic, pedestrians and bicycles, transit operations, and access to property/utilities) when the normal function of a roadway at a highway-rail grade crossing is suspended because of temporary traffic control operations.

Standard:

Traffic controls for temporary traffic control zones that include highway-rail grade crossings shall be as outlined in Part 6.

When a highway-rail grade crossing exists either within or in the vicinity of a temporary traffic control zone, lane restrictions, flagging (see Chapter 6E), or other operations shall not be performed in a manner that would cause highway vehicles to stop on the railroad or LRT tracks, unless a flagger or uniformed law enforcement officer is provided at the highway-rail grade crossing to minimize the possibility of highway vehicles stopping on the tracks, even if automatic warning devices are in place.

Guidance:

Public and private agencies, including emergency services, businesses, and railroad or LRT companies, should meet to plan appropriate traffic detours and the necessary signing, marking, and flagging requirements for operations during temporary traffic control zone activities. Consideration should be given to the length of time that the highway-rail grade crossing is to be closed, the type of rail or LRT and highway traffic affected, the time of day, and the materials and techniques of repair.

The agencies responsible for the operation of the light rail transit LRT and highway should be contacted when the initial planning begins for any temporary traffic control zone that may might directly or indirectly influence the flow of traffic on mixed-use facilities where light rail transit LRT and road users operate.

Temporary traffic control operations should minimize the inconvenience, delay, and crash potential to affected traffic. Prior notice should be given to affected public or private agencies, emergency services, businesses, railroad or LRT companies, and road users before the free movement of vehicles road users or trains rail traffic is infringed upon or blocked.

Temporary traffic control zone activities should not be permitted to extensively prolong the closing of the highway-rail grade crossing.

The width, grade, alignment, and riding quality of the highway surface at a highway-rail grade crossing should, at a minimum, be restored to correspond with the quality of the approaches to the highway-rail grade crossing.

Support:

Section 6G.18 contains additional information regarding temporary traffic control zones in the vicinity of grade crossings, and Figure 6H-46 shows an example of a typical situation that might be encountered.

CHAPTER 8B. SIGNS AND MARKINGS

Section 8B.01 Purpose

Support:

Passive traffic control systems, consisting of signs and pavement markings only, identify and direct attention to the location of a highway-rail grade crossing and advise motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians to take appropriate action road users to slow down or stop at the grade crossing as necessary in order to yield to any rail traffic occupying, or approaching and in proximity to, the grade crossing.

Signs and markings regulate, warn, and guide the road users so that they, as well as light rail transit LRT vehicle operators on mixed-use alignments, can take appropriate action when approaching a grade crossing. relocated from Section 10C.01

Standard:

The design and location of signs shall conform to comply with the provisions of Part 2. relocated from Section 10C.01 The design and location of pavement markings shall comply with the provisions of Part 3.

Support:

Section 8B.02 contains information regarding the sizes of signs for grade crossings. relocated from Section 10C.01

Section 8B.02 Sizes of Grade Crossing Signs

Standard:

The sizes of grade crossing signs shall be as shown in Table 8B-1.

Option:

Signs larger than those shown in Table 8B-1 may be used (see Section 2A.11).

Section 8B.03 Highway-Rail Grade Crossing (Crossbuck) Sign (R15-1) and Number of Tracks Sign Plaque (R15-2P) at Active and Passive Grade Crossings Paragraph 7 of this Section was relocated to Section 8B.04

Standard:

The Highway-Rail Grade Crossing (R15-1) sign (see Figure 8B-1), commonly identified as the Crossbuck sign, shall be retroreflectorized white with the words RAILROAD CROSSING in black lettering, mounted as shown in Figure 8B-2.

Support:

In most States, the Crossbuck sign requires road users to yield the right-of-way to rail traffic at a grade crossing.

Standard:

As a minimum, one Crossbuck sign shall be used on each highway approach to every highway-rail grade crossing, alone or in combination with other traffic control devices.

Option:

A Crossbuck sign may be used on a highway approach to a highway-light rail transit highway-LRT grade crossing on a semi-exclusive or mixed-use alignment, alone or in combination with other traffic control devices. relocated from Section 10C.02

Standard:

If automatic gates are not present and if there are two or more tracks at the a highway-rail grade crossing, the number of tracks shall be indicated on a supplemental Number of Tracks (R15-2P) sign plaque (see Figure 8B-1) of inverted T shape mounted below the Crossbuck sign in the manner and at the height indicated shown in Figure 8B-2.

Option:

The supplemental Number of Tracks sign may also be used at highway-rail grade crossings with automatic gates.

Standard:

On each approach to a highway-rail grade crossing and, if used, on each approach to a highway-LRT grade crossing, the Crossbuck sign shall be installed on the right-hand side of the highway on each approach to the highway-rail grade crossing. Where restricted sight distance or unfavorable highway geometry exists on an approach to a highway-rail grade crossing, an additional Crossbuck sign shall be installed on the left-hand side of the highway, possibly placed back-to-back with the Crossbuck sign for the opposite approach, or otherwise located so that two Crossbuck signs are displayed for that approach.

A strip of retroreflective white material not less than 2 inches in width shall be used on the back of each blade of each Crossbuck sign for the length of each blade, at all highway-rail grade crossings where Crossbuck signs have been installed, except those where Crossbuck signs have been installed back-to-back.

Guidance:

Crossbuck signs should be located with respect to the highway pavement or shoulder in accordance with the criteria in Chapter 2A and Figures 2A-2 and 2A-3, and should be located with respect to the nearest track in accordance with Figure 8C-2.

The minimum lateral clearance offset for the nearest edge of the Crossbuck sign should be 6 feet from the edge of the shoulder or 12 feet from the edge of the traveled way in rural areas (whichever is greater), and 2 feet from the face of the curb in urban areas.

Where unusual conditions make variations in location and lateral clearance offset appropriate, engineering judgment should be used to provide the best practical combination of view and safety clearances.

Section 8B.08 8B.04 Crossbuck Assemblies with YIELD or STOP (R1-1) or YIELD (R1-2) Signs at Passive Highway-Rail Grade Crossings

Option:

At the discretion of the responsible State or local highway agency, STOP (R1-1) or YIELD (R1-2) signs (see Figure 2B-1) may be used at highway-rail grade crossings that have two or more trains per day and are without automatic traffic control devices.

Support:

Two or more trains per day means an average of two or more trains per day operating over the highway-rail grade crossing for a 12-month period prior to the installation of the STOP or YIELD control sign.

Option:

For other highway-rail grade crossings with passive warning devices, STOP or YIELD signs may be used based on an engineering study.

Guidance:

The engineering study should take into consideration such factors as highway and train traffic characteristics (including volume and speed), collision history, the need for active control devices, and sight distance to the approaching train.

Option:

If a STOP or YIELD sign is installed at a highway-rail grade crossing, it may be installed on the Crossbuck post or on a separate post at a point where the vehicle is to stop, or as near to that point as practical.

Standard:

For all highway-rail grade crossings where STOP or YIELD signs are installed, the placement shall conform to the requirements of Sections 2B.06 and 2B.10. Stop Ahead (W3-1) or Yield Ahead (W3-2) Advance Warning signs (see Figure 2C-4) shall also be installed if the criteria for their installation given in Section 2C.29 is met.

Standard:

A grade crossing Crossbuck Assembly shall consist of a Crossbuck (R15-1) sign, and a Number of Tracks (R15-2P) plaque if two or more tracks are present, that complies with the provisions of Section 8B.03, and either a YIELD (R1-2) or STOP (R1-1) sign installed on the same support, except as provided in Paragraph 8. If used at a passive grade crossing, a YIELD or STOP sign shall be installed in compliance with the provisions of Part 2, Section 2B.10, and Figures 8B-2 and 8B-3.

At all public highway-rail grade crossings that are not equipped with the active traffic control systems that are described in Chapter 8C, except crossings where road users are directed by an authorized person on the ground to not enter the crossing at all times that an approaching train is about to occupy the crossing, a Crossbuck Assembly shall be installed on the right-hand side of the highway on each approach to the highway-rail grade crossing.

If a Crossbuck sign is used on a highway approach to a public highway-LRT grade crossing that is not equipped with the active traffic control systems that are described in Chapter 8C, a Crossbuck Assembly shall be installed on the right-hand side of the highway on each approach to the highway-LRT grade crossing.

Where restricted sight distance or unfavorable highway geometry exists on an approach to a grade crossing that has a Crossbuck Assembly, or where there is a one-way multi-lane approach, an additional Crossbuck Assembly shall be installed on the left-hand side of the highway.

A YIELD sign shall be the default traffic control device for Crossbuck Assemblies on all highway approaches to passive grade crossings unless an engineering study performed by the regulatory agency or highway authority having jurisdiction over the roadway approach determines that a STOP sign is appropriate.

Guidance:

The use of STOP signs at passive grade crossings should be limited to unusual conditions where requiring all highway vehicles to make a full stop is deemed essential by an engineering study. Among the factors that should be considered in the engineering study are the line of sight to approaching rail traffic (giving due consideration to seasonal crops or vegetation beyond both the highway and railroad or LRT rights-of-ways), the number of tracks, the speeds of trains or LRT equipment and highway vehicles, and the crash history at the grade crossing.

Support:

Sections 8A.02 and 8A.03 contain information regarding the responsibilities of the highway agency and the railroad company or LRT agency regarding the selection, design, and operation of traffic control devices placed at grade crossings.

Option:

If a YIELD or STOP sign is installed for a Crossbuck Assembly at a grade crossing, it may be installed on the same support as the Crossbuck sign or it may be installed on a separate support at a point where the highway vehicle is to stop, or as near to that point as practical, but in either case, the YIELD or STOP sign is considered to be a part of the Crossbuck Assembly.

Standard:

If a YIELD or STOP sign is installed on an existing Crossbuck sign support, the minimum height, measured vertically from the bottom of the YIELD or STOP sign to the top of the curb, or in the absence of curb, measured vertically from the bottom of the YIELD or STOP sign to the elevation of the near edge of the traveled way, shall be 4 feet (see Figure 8B-2).

If a Crossbuck Assembly is installed on a new sign support (see Figure 8B-2) or if the YIELD or STOP sign is installed on a separate support (see Figure 8B-3), the minimum height, measured vertically from the bottom of the YIELD or STOP sign to the top of the curb, or in the absence of curb, measured vertically from the bottom of the YIELD or STOP sign to the elevation of the near edge of the traveled way, shall be 7 feet if the Crossbuck Assembly is installed in an area where parking or pedestrian movements are likely to occur.

Guidance:

If a YIELD or STOP sign is installed for a Crossbuck Assembly at a grade crossing on a separate support than the Crossbuck sign (see Figure 8B-3), the YIELD or STOP sign should be placed at a point where the highway vehicle is to stop, or as near to that point as practical, but no closer than 15 feet measured perpendicular from the nearest rail.

Support:

The meaning of a Crossbuck Assembly that includes a YIELD sign is that a road user approaching the grade crossing needs to be prepared to decelerate, and when necessary, yield the right-of-way to any rail traffic that might be occupying the crossing or might be approaching and in such close proximity to the crossing that it would be unsafe for the road user to cross.

Certain commercial motor vehicles and school buses are required to stop at all grade crossings in accordance with 49 CFR 392.10 even if a YIELD sign (or just a Crossbuck sign) is posted.

The meaning of a Crossbuck Assembly that includes a STOP sign is that a road user approaching the grade crossing must come to a full and complete stop not less than 15 feet short of the nearest rail, and remain stopped while the road user determines if there is rail traffic either occupying the crossing or approaching and in such close proximity to the crossing that the road user must yield the right-of-way to rail traffic. The road user is permitted to proceed when it is safe to cross.

Standard:

A vertical strip of retroreflective white material, not less than 2 inches in width, shall be used on each Crossbuck support at passive highway-rail grade crossings for the full length of the front and back of the support from the Crossbuck sign or Number of Tracks sign plaque to within 2 feet above the edge of the roadway ground, except on the side of those supports where a STOP (R1-1) or YIELD (R1-2) sign or flashing lights have been installed or on the back side of supports for Crossbuck signs installed on one-way streets as provided in Paragraph 16. relocated from Section 8B.03

Option:

The vertical strip of retroreflective material may be omitted from the back sides of Crossbuck sign supports installed on one-way streets.

If a YIELD or STOP sign is installed on the same support as the Crossbuck sign, a vertical strip of red (see Section 2A.21) or white retroreflective material that is at least 2 inches wide may be used on the front of the support from the YIELD or STOP sign to within 2 feet above the ground.

Standard:

If a Crossbuck sign support at a passive grade crossing does not include a YIELD or STOP sign (either because the YIELD or STOP sign is placed on a separate support or because a YIELD or STOP sign is not present on the approach), a vertical strip of retroreflective white material, not less than 2 inches in width, shall be used for the full length of the front of the support from the Crossbuck sign or Number of Tracks plaque to within 2 feet above the ground.

At all grade crossings where YIELD or STOP signs are installed, Yield Ahead (W3-2) or Stop Ahead (W3-1) signs shall also be installed if the criteria for their installation in Section 2C.36 is met.

Support:

Section 8B.28 contains provisions regarding the use of stop lines or yield lines at grade crossings.

Section 10C.04 8B.05 Use of STOP (R1-1) or YIELD (R1-2) Signs without Crossbuck Signs at Highway-Light Rail Transit Highway-LRT Grade Crossings

Standard:

For all highway-light rail transit highway-LRT grade crossings where only STOP (R1-1) or YIELD (R1-2) signs are installed, the placement shall conform to comply with the requirements of Section 2B.10. Stop Ahead (W3-1) or Yield Ahead (W3-2) Advance Warning signs (see Figure 2C-6) shall also be installed if the criteria for their installation given in Section 2C.36 is met.

Guidance:

The use of only STOP or YIELD signs for road users at highway-light rail transit highway-LRT grade crossings should be limited to those crossings where the need and feasibility is established by an engineering study. Such crossings should have all of the following characteristics:

The crossing roadways should be secondary in character (such as a minor street with one lane in each direction, an alley, or a driveway) with low traffic volumes and low speed limits. The specific thresholds of traffic volumes and speed limits should be determined by the local agencies.
Light rail transit LRT speeds do not exceed 25 mph.
The line of sight for an approaching light rail transit LRT operator is adequate from a sufficient distance such that the operator can sound an audible signal and bring the light rail transit LRT vehicle equipment to a stop before arriving at the crossing.
The road user has sufficient sight distance at the stop line to permit the vehicle to cross the tracks before the arrival of the light rail transit LRT vehicle equipment.
If at an intersection of two roadways, the intersection does not meet the warrants for a traffic control signal as specified provided in Chapter 4C.
The light rail transit LRT tracks are located such that highway vehicles are not likely to stop on the tracks while waiting to enter a cross street or highway.

Option:

If a STOP or YIELD sign is installed at a highway-light rail transit grade crossing, it may be installed on the Crossbuck post or on a separate post at the point where the vehicle is to stop, or as near to that point as practical.

Section 8B.04 8B.06 Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Advance Warning Signs (W10 Series)

Standard:

A Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Advance Warning (W10-1) sign (see Figure 8B-4) shall be used on each highway in advance of every highway-rail grade crossing, and every highway-LRT grade crossing in semi-exclusive alignments, except in the following circumstances:

On an approach to a highway-rail grade crossing from a T-intersection with a parallel highway if the distance from the edge of the track to the edge of the parallel roadway is less than 100 feet and W10-3 signs are used on both approaches of the parallel highway;
On low-volume, low-speed highways crossing minor spurs or other tracks that are infrequently used and are flagged by train crews road users are directed by an authorized person on the ground to not enter the crossing at all times that approaching rail traffic is about to occupy the crossing;
In business or commercial districts areas where active highway-rail grade crossing traffic control devices are in use; or
Where physical conditions do not permit even a partially effective display of the sign.

The placement of the Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Advance Warning sign shall be in accordance with Chapter 2A Section 2C.05 and Table 2C-4.

A Yield Ahead (W3-2) or Stop Ahead (W3-1) Advance Warning sign (see Figure 2C-6) shall also be installed if the criteria for their installation given in Section 2C.36 is met. If a Yield Ahead or Stop Ahead sign is installed on the approach to the crossing, the W10-1 sign shall be installed upstream from the Yield Ahead or Stop Ahead sign. The Yield Ahead or Stop Ahead sign shall be located in accordance with Table 2C-4. The minimum distance between the signs shall be in accordance with Section 2C.05 and Table 2C-4.

Option:

On divided highways and one-way streets, an additional W10-1 sign may be installed on the left-hand side of the roadway.

Standard:

If the distance between the railroad tracks and a parallel highway, from the edge of the tracks to the edge of the parallel roadway, is less than 100 feet, W10-2, W10-3, or W10-4 signs (see Figure 8B-4) shall be installed on each approach of the parallel highway to warn road users making a turn that they will encounter a highway-rail grade crossing soon after making a turn, and a W10-1 sign for the approach to the tracks shall not be required to be between the tracks and the parallel highway.

If the W10-2, W10-3, or W10-4 signs are used, sign placement in accordance with the guidelines for Intersection Warning signs in Table 2C-4 using the speed of through traffic shall be measured from the highway intersection.

Guidance:

If the distance between the railroad tracks and the parallel highway, from the edge of the tracks to the edge of the parallel roadway, is 100 feet or more, a W10-1 sign should be installed in advance of the highway-rail grade crossing, and the W10-2, W10-3, or W10-4 signs should not be used on the parallel highway.

Section 8B.05 8B.07 EXEMPT Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Signs Plaques (R15-3P, W10-1aP)

Option:

When authorized by law or regulation, a supplemental EXEMPT (R15-3P) sign plaque (see Figure 8B-1) with a white background bearing the word EXEMPT may be used below the Crossbuck sign or Number of Tracks sign plaque, if present, at the highway-rail grade crossing, and a supplemental EXEMPT (W10-1aP) sign plaque (see Figure 8B-4) with a yellow background bearing the word EXEMPT may be used below the Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Advance Warning (W10-1 series) sign.

Where neither the Crossbuck sign nor the advance warning signs exist for a particular highway-LRT grade crossing, an EXEMPT (R15-3P) sign plaque with a white background may be placed on its own post on the near right-hand side of the approach to the crossing. relocated from Section 10C.10

Support:

These supplemental signs plaques inform drivers of highway vehicles carrying passengers for hire, school buses carrying students, or highway vehicles carrying hazardous materials that a stop is not required at certain designated highway-rail grade crossings, except when a train, locomotive, or other railroad equipment rail traffic is approaching or occupying the highway-rail grade crossing, or the driver's view is blocked.

Section 8B.06 8B.08 Turn Restrictions During Preemption

Guidance:

At a signalized intersection that is located within 200 feet of a highway-rail grade crossing, measured from the edge of the track to the edge of the roadway, where the intersection traffic control signals are preempted by the approach of a train, all existing turning movements toward the highway-rail grade crossing should be prohibited during the signal preemption sequences.

Option:

A blank-out or changeable message sign and/or appropriate highway traffic signal indication or other similar type sign may be used to prohibit turning movements toward the highway-rail grade crossing during preemption. The R3-1a and R3-2a signs shown in Figure 8B-1 may be used for this purpose.

Support:

Light rail transit LRT operations can include the use of activated blank-out sign technology for turn prohibition (R3-1a, R3-2a) signs (see Figure 10C-3). The signs are typically used on roads paralleling a semi-exclusive or mixed-use light rail transit LRT alignment where road users might turn across the light rail transit LRT tracks. A blank-out sign displays its message only when activated. When not activated, the sign face is blank. relocated from Section 10C.09

Guidance:

An light rail transit LRT-activated blank-out turn prohibition (R3-1a or R3-2a) sign should be used where an intersection adjacent to a highway-light rail transit highway-LRT crossing is controlled by STOP signs, or is controlled by traffic control signals with permissive turn movements for road users crossing the tracks. relocated from Section 10C.09

Option:

An light rail transit LRT-activated blank-out turn prohibition (R3-1a or R3-2a) sign may be used for turning movements that cross the tracks. relocated from Section 10C.09

As an alternative to light rail transit LRT-activated blank-out turn prohibition signs at intersections with traffic control signals, exclusive traffic control signal phases such that all movements that cross the tracks have a steady red indication may be used in combination with No Turn on Red (R10-11, R10-11a, or R10-11b) signs (see Section 2B.53). relocated from Section 10C.09

Standard:

Turn prohibition signs that are associated with preemption shall be visible or activated only when the highway-rail grade crossing restriction is in effect.

Section 8B.07 8B.09 DO NOT STOP ON TRACKS Sign (R8-8)

Guidance:

Whenever engineering judgment determines that the potential for vehicles stopping on the tracks is high, a DO NOT STOP ON TRACKS (R8-8) sign (see Figure 8B-3) should be used.

The sign, if used, should be located on the right side of the highway on either the near or far side of the highway-rail grade crossing, depending upon which side provides better visibility to approaching drivers.

A DO NOT STOP ON TRACKS (R8-8) sign (see Figure 8B-1) should be installed whenever an engineering study determines that the potential for highway vehicles stopping on the tracks at a highway-light rail transit grade crossing is significant. Placement of the R8-8 sign should be determined as part of the engineering study. The sign, if used, should be located on the right-hand side of the highway on either the near or far side of the grade crossing, depending upon which position provides better visibility to approaching drivers. relocated from Section 10C.05

If a STOP or YIELD sign is installed beyond at a location, including at a circular intersection, that is downstream from the light rail transit grade crossing such that highway vehicle queues are likely to extend into the path of the light rail transit beyond the tracks, a DO NOT STOP ON TRACKS sign (R8-8) should be posted in accordance with Section 10C.05 used. relocated from Section 10C.04

Option:

DO NOT STOP ON TRACKS signs may be placed on both sides of the track.

On divided highways and one-way streets, a second DO NOT STOP ON TRACKS sign may be placed on the near or far left-hand side of the highway-rail at the grade crossing to further improve visibility of the sign.

Section 8B.09 8B.10 TRACKS OUT OF SERVICE Sign (R8-9)

Option:

The TRACKS OUT OF SERVICE (R8-9) sign (see Figure 8B-1) may be used at a highway-rail grade crossing instead of a Crossbuck (R15-1) sign and a Number of Tracks (R15-2P) sign plaque (see Figure 8B-1) or instead of a Crossbuck Assembly when railroad or LRT tracks have been temporarily or permanently abandoned, but only until such time that the tracks are removed or paved over covered.

Standard:

When tracks are out of service, traffic control devices and gate arms shall be removed and the signal heads shall be removed or hooded or turned from view to clearly indicate that they are not in operation.

The R8-9 sign shall be removed when the tracks have been removed or covered or when the highway-rail grade crossing is returned to service.

Section 8B.10 8B.11 STOP HERE WHEN FLASHING Sign (R8-10, R8-10a)

Option:

The STOP HERE WHEN FLASHING (R8-10, R8-10a) sign (see Figure 8B-1) may be used at a highway-rail grade crossing to inform drivers of the location of the stop line or the point at which to stop when the flashing-light signals (see Section 8C.02) are activated.

Section 8B.11 8B.12 STOP HERE ON RED Sign (R10-6, R10-6a)

Support:

The STOP HERE ON RED (R10-6, R10-6a) sign (see Figure 8B-1) defines and facilitates observance of stop lines at traffic control signals.

Option:

A STOP HERE ON RED sign may be used at locations where highway vehicles frequently violate the stop line or where it is not obvious to road users where to stop.

Guidance:

If possible, stop lines should be placed at a point where the highway vehicle driver has adequate sight distance along the track.

Section 10C.13 8B.13 Light Rail Transit Only Lane Signs (R15-4 Series)

Support:

The Light Rail Transit Only Lane (R15-4 series) signs (see Figure 8B-1) are used for multi-lane operations, where road users might need additional guidance on lane use and/or restrictions.

Option:

Light Rail Transit Only Lane signs may be used on a roadway lane limited to only light rail transit LRT use to indicate the restricted use of a lane in semi-exclusive and mixed alignments.

Guidance:

If used, the R15-4a, R15-4b, and R15-4c signs should be installed on posts adjacent to the roadway containing the light rail transit LRT tracks or overhead above the light rail transit LRT only lane.

Option:

If the trackway is paved, preferential lane markings (see Section 3B.22 Chapter 3D) may be installed but only in combination with Light Rail Transit Only Lane signs.

Support:

The trackway is the continuous way designated for light rail transit LRT, including the entire dynamic envelope. Section 8B.29 contains more information regarding the dynamic envelope.

Section 10C.14 8B.14 Do Not Pass Light Rail Transit Signs (R15-5, R15-5a)

Support:

A Do Not Pass Light Rail Transit (R15-5) sign (see Figure 8B-1) is used to indicate that motor vehicles are not allowed to pass light rail transit LRT vehicles that are loading or unloading passengers where there is no raised platform or physical separation from the lanes upon which other motor vehicles are operating.

Option:

The R15-5 sign may be used in mixed-use alignments and may be mounted overhead where there are multiple lanes.

Instead of the R15-5 symbol sign, a regulatory sign with the word message DO NOT PASS STOPPED TRAIN (R15-5a) may be used (see Figure 8B-1).

Guidance:

If used, the R15-5 sign should be located immediately before the light rail transit LRT boarding area.

Section 10C.12 8B.15 No Motor Vehicles On Tracks Signs (R15-6, R15-6a)

Support:

The No Motor Vehicles On Tracks (R15-6) sign (see Figure 8B-1) is used where there are adjacent traffic lanes separated from the light rail transit LRT lane by a curb or pavement markings.

Guidance:

The DO NOT ENTER (R5-1) sign should be used where a road user could wrongly enter an light rail transit LRT only street.

Option:

A No Motor Vehicles On Tracks sign may be used to deter motor vehicles from driving on the trackway. It may be installed either on a 3-foot flexible post between double tracks, on a post alongside the tracks, or overhead.

Instead of the R15-6 symbol sign, a regulatory sign with the word message DO NOT DRIVE ON TRACKS (R15-6a) may be used (see Figure 8B-1).

A reduced size of 12 x 12 inches may be used if the R15-6 sign is installed between double tracks.

Standard:

The smallest size for the R15-6 sign shall be 12 x 12 inches.

Section 10C.11 8B.16 Divided Highway with Light Rail Transit Crossing Signs (R15-7 Series)

Option:

The Divided Highway with Light Rail Transit Crossing (R15-7) sign (see Figure 8B-1) may be used as a supplemental sign on the approach legs of a roadway that intersects with a divided highway where light rail transit LRT vehicles equipment operates in the median. The sign may be placed beneath a STOP sign or mounted separately.

Guidance:

The number of tracks showndisplayed on the R15-7 sign should be the same as the actual number of tracks.

Standard:

When the Divided Highway With Light Rail Transit Crossing sign is used at a four-legged intersection, the R15-7 sign shall be used. When used at a T-intersection, the R15-7a sign shall be used.

Section 8B.16 8B.17 LOOK Sign (R15-8)

Option:

At highway-rail grade crossings, the LOOK (R15-8) sign (see Figure 8B-1) may be mounted as a supplemental plaque on the Crossbuck (R15-1) sign post support, or as on a separate sign post in the immediate vicinity of the highway-rail grade crossing on the railroad or LRT right-of-way.

Guidance:

A LOOK sign should not be mounted as a supplemental plaque on a Crossbuck Assembly that has a YIELD or STOP sign mounted on the same support as the Crossbuck.

Section 8B.12 8B.18 Emergency Notification Sign (I-13 or I-13a)

Guidance:

An Emergency Notification (I-13 or I-13a) signs (see Figure 8B-5) should be installed at all highway-rail grade crossings, and at all highway-LRT grade crossings on semi-exclusive alignments, to provide for emergency notification information to road users so that they can notify the railroad company or LRT agency about emergencies or malfunctioning traffic control devices. The sign should have a white message on blue background.

Location and placement should be decided cooperatively by the railroad company and the public or private highway agencies based on specific site conditions. However, these signs are typically located on the railroad right-of-way.

This sign, which is for emergency notification, should convey a clear and simple message that is visible to anyone stalled or disabled on the railroad tracks, and to anyone with other emergencies.

Support:

Examples of sign messages are shown in Figure 8B-4.

Standard:

When Emergency Notification signs are used at a highway-rail grade crossing, they shall, at a minimum, include the USDOT grade crossing inventory number and the emergency contact telephone number.

When Emergency Notification signs are used at a highway-LRT grade crossing, they shall, at a minimum, include a unique crossing identifier and the emergency contact telephone number.

Emergency Notification Signs shall have a white legend and border on a blue background.

The Emergency Notification signs shall be positioned so as to not obstruct any traffic control devices or limit the view of rail traffic approaching the grade crossing.

Guidance:

Emergency Notification signs should be retroreflective.

Emergency Notification signs should be oriented so as to face highway vehicles stopped on or at the grade crossing or on the traveled way near the grade crossing.

At station crossings, Emergency Notification signs or information should be posted in a conspicuous location.

Emergency Notification signs mounted on Crossbuck Assemblies or signal masts should only be large enough to provide the necessary contact information. Use of larger signs that might obstruct the view of rail traffic or other highway vehicles should be avoided.

Section 10C.17 8B.19 Light Rail Transit Approaching-Activated Blank-Out Warning Sign (W10-7)

Support:

The Light Rail Transit Approaching-Activated Blank-Out (W10-7) warning sign (see Figure 8B-4) supplements the traffic control signal devices to warn road users turning across crossing the tracks of an approaching parallel light rail transit LRT vehicle equipment.

Option:

A Light Rail Transit Approaching-Activated Blank-Out warning sign may be used at signalized intersections near highway-light rail transit highway-LRT grade crossings or at crossings controlled by STOP signs or automatic gates.

Section 8B.13 8B.20 TRAINS MAY EXCEED 80 MPH Sign (W10-8)

Guidance:

Where trains are permitted to travel at speeds exceeding 80 mph, a TRAINS MAY EXCEED 80 MPH (W10-8) sign (see Figure 8B-4) should be installed facing road users approaching the highway-rail grade crossing.

If used, the TRAINS MAY EXCEED 80 MPH signs should be installed between the Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Advance Warning (W10-1 series) sign (see Figure 8B-4) and the highway-rail grade crossing on all approaches to the highway-rail grade crossing. The locations should be determined based on specific site conditions.

Section 8B.14 8B.21 NO TRAIN HORN Sign and Plaque (W10-9, W10-9P)

Standard:

Either a NO TRAIN HORN (W10-9) sign (see Figure 8B-4) or a NO TRAIN HORN (W10-9P) plaque shall be installed in each direction at each highway-rail grade crossing where there is a Federal Railroad Administration authorization for trains to not sound a horn a quiet zone has been established in compliance with 49 CFR Part 222. The sign If a W10-9P plaque is used, it shall be mounted as a supplemental plaque and be mounted directly below the Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Advance Warning (W10-1 series) sign (see Figure 8B-4).

Section 8B.15 8B.22 NO SIGNAL Sign (W10-10) or NO GATES OR LIGHTS Sign Plaque (W10-13P)

Option:

A NO SIGNAL (W10-10) sign or a NO GATES OR LIGHTS (W10-13) sign (see Figure 8B-5) may be installed at highway-rail grade crossings that are not equipped with automated signals.

The NO SIGNAL (W10-10) sign or the NO GATES OR LIGHTS (W10-13P) sign plaque (see Figure 8B-4) may be mounted as a supplemental plaque below the Grade Crossing Advance Warning (W10-1 series) sign at grade crossings that are not equipped with automated signals.

Section 8B.17 8B.23 Low Ground Clearance Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Sign (W10-5)

Guidance:

If the highway profile conditions are sufficiently abrupt to create a hang-up situation for long wheelbase vehicles or for trailers with low ground clearance, the Low Ground Clearance Highway-Rail Grade Crossing (W10-5) sign (see Figure 8B-4) should be installed in advance of the highway-rail grade crossing.

Standard:

Because this symbol might not be readily recognizable by the public, the Low Ground Clearance Highway-Rail Grade Crossing (W10-5) warning sign shall be accompanied by an educational plaque, LOW GROUND CLEARANCE. The LOW GROUND CLEARANCE educational plaque shall remain in place for at least 3 years after the initial installation of the W10-5 sign (see Section 2A.12).

Guidance:

Auxiliary plaques such as AHEAD, NEXT CROSSING, or USE NEXT CROSSING (with appropriate arrows), or a supplemental distance plaque should be placed below the W10-5 sign at the nearest intersecting highway where a vehicle can detour or at a point on the highway wide enough to permit a U-turn.

If engineering judgment of roadway geometric and operating conditions confirms that highway vehicle speeds across the railroad tracks should be below the posted speed limit, a W13-1P advisory speed plaque should be posted.

Option:

If the highway-rail grade crossing is rough, word message signs such as BUMP, DIP, or ROUGH CROSSING may be installed. A W13-1P advisory speed plaque may be installed below the word message sign in advance of rough crossings.

Support:

Information on railroad ground clearance requirements at grade crossings is also available in the "American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association's Engineering Manual," or the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials' "Policy on Geometric Design of Highways and Streets" (see Section 1A.11).

Section 8B.18 8B.24 Storage Space Signs (W10-11, W10-11a, W10-11b)

Guidance:

A Storage Space (W10-11) sign supplemented by a word message storage distance (W10-11a) sign (see Figure 8B-4) should be used where there is a highway intersection in close proximity to the highway-rail grade crossing and an engineering study determines that adequate space is not available to store a design vehicle(s) between the highway intersection and the train or LRT equipment dynamic envelope.

The Storage Space (W10-11 and W10-11a) signs should be mounted in advance of the highway-rail grade crossing at an appropriate location to advise drivers of the space available for highway vehicle storage between the highway intersection and the highway-rail grade crossing.

Option:

A Storage Space (W10-11b) sign (see Figure 8B-4) may be mounted beyond the highway-rail grade crossing at the highway intersection under the STOP or YIELD sign or just prior to the signalized intersection to remind drivers of the storage space between the tracks and the highway intersection.

Section 8B.19 8B.25 Skewed Crossing Sign (W10-12)

Option:

The Skewed Crossing (W10-12) sign (see Figure 8B-4) may be used at a skewed highway-rail grade crossing to warn drivers road users that the railroad tracks are not perpendicular to the highway.

Guidance:

If the Skewed Crossing sign is used, the symbol should show the direction of the crossing (near left to far right as shown in Figure 8B-4, or the mirror image if the track goes from far left to near right). If the Skewed Crossing sign is used where the angle of the crossing is significantly different than 45 degrees, the symbol should show the approximate angle of the crossing.

Standard:

The Skewed Crossing sign shall not be used as a replacement for the required Advance Warning (W10-1) sign. If used, the Skewed Crossing sign shall supplement the W10-1 sign and shall be mounted on a separate post.

Section 10C.20 8B.26 Light Rail Transit Station Sign (I-12)

Option:

The Light Rail Transit Station (I-12) sign (see Figure 2H-1) may be used to direct road users to an light rail transit LRT station or boarding location. It may be supplemented by the name of the transit system and by arrows as provided in Section 2D.08.

Section 8B.20 8B.27 Pavement Markings

Standard:

All highway-rail grade crossing pavement markings shall be retroreflectorized white. All other markings shall be in accordance with Part 3.

On paved roadways, pavement markings in advance of a highway-rail grade crossing shall consist of an X, the letters RR, a no-passing zone marking (on two-lane, two-way highways where with centerline center line markings are used in compliance with Section 3B.01), and certain transverse lines as shown in Figures 8B-6 and 8B-7.

Identical markings shall be placed in each approach lane on all paved approaches to highway-rail grade crossings where signals or automatic gates are located, and at all other highway-rail grade crossings where the posted or statutory highway speed is 40 mph or greater.

Pavement markings shall not be required at highway-rail grade crossings where the posted or statutory highway speed is less than 40 mph, if an engineering study indicates that other installed devices provide suitable warning and control. or Pavement markings shall not be required at grade crossings in urban areas, if an engineering study indicates that other installed devices provide suitable warning and control.

Guidance:

When pavement markings are used, a portion of the X symbol should be directly opposite the Grade Crossing Advance Warning sign. The X symbol and letters should be elongated to allow for the low angle at which they will be viewed.

Option:

When justified by engineering judgment, supplemental pavement marking symbol(s) may be placed between the Grade Crossing Advance Warning sign and the highway-rail grade crossing.

Section 8B.21 8B.28 Stop and Yield Lines

Standard:

On paved roadways at grade crossings that are equipped with active control devices such as flashing-light signals, gates, or traffic control signals, a stop line (see Section 3B.16) shall be installed to indicate the point behind which highway vehicles are or might be required to stop.

Guidance:

On paved roadway approaches to passive grade crossings where a STOP sign is installed in conjunction with the Crossbuck sign, a stop line should be installed to indicate the point behind which highway vehicles are required to stop or as near to that point as practical.

The If a stop line is used, it should be a transverse line at a right angle to the traveled way at a point where a vehicle is to stop or as near to that point as possible. The stop line and should be placed approximately 8 feet from in advance of the gate (if present), but no closer than 15 feet from in advance of the nearest rail.

Option:

On paved roadway approaches to passive grade crossings where a YIELD sign is installed in conjunction with the Crossbuck sign, a yield line (see Section 3B.16) or a stop line may be installed to indicate the point behind which highway vehicles are required to yield or stop or as near to that point as practical.

Guidance:

If a yield line is used, it should be a transverse line (see Figure 3B-16) at a right angle to the traveled way and should be placed no closer than 15 feet in advance of the nearest rail (see Figure 8B-7).

Section 8B.22 8B.29 Dynamic Envelope Markings

Support:

The dynamic envelope (see Figures 8B-8 and 8B-9) markings indicate the clearance required for the train or light rail transit LRT vehicle equipment overhang resulting from any combination of loading, lateral motion, or suspension failure. relocated from Section 10C.25

Option:

Dynamic envelope markings may be used to mark the edges of the dynamic envelope where there is a highway intersection in close proximity to the highway-rail grade crossing and an engineering study determines that vehicles might stop within the dynamic envelope area.

Dynamic envelope markings may be installed at all highway-rail grade crossings, unless a Four-Quadrant Gate system (see Section 8C.06) is used.

Standard:

If used, pavement markings for indicating the dynamic envelope shall conform to comply with the provisions of Part 3 and shall be a 4-inch normal solid white line or contrasting pavement color and/or contrasting pavement texture.

Guidance:

If pavement markings are used to convey the dynamic envelope, they should be placed completely outside of the dynamic envelope. relocated from Section 10C.25 If used, dynamic envelope pavement markings should be placed on the highway 6 feet from and parallel to the nearest rail, installed parallel to the tracks, unless the operating railroad company or LRT agency advises otherwise. The pavement markings should extend across the roadway as shown in Figure 8B-8. The dynamic envelope pavement markings should not be placed perpendicular to the roadway at skewed grade crossings.

Option:

In semi-exclusive LRT alignments, the dynamic envelope markings may be along the light rail transit LRT trackway between intersections where the trackway is immediately adjacent to travel lanes and no physical barrier is present.

In mixed-use LRT alignments, the dynamic envelope markings may be continuous between intersections (see Figure 8B-9).

In mixed-use LRT alignments, pavement markings for adjacent travel or parking lanes may be used instead of dynamic envelope markings if the lines are outside the dynamic envelope.

CHAPTER 8C. ILLUMINATION relocated to Section 8A.06

CHAPTER 8D 8C. FLASHING-LIGHT SIGNALS, GATES, AND TRAFFIC CONTROL SIGNALS

Section 8D.01 8C.01 Introduction

Support:

Active traffic control systems inform motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians of the approach or presence of trains, locomotives, or other railroad equipment at highway-rail grade crossings.

Active light rail transit traffic control systems inform motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians road users of the approach or presence of light rail transit vehicles traffic at highway-light rail transit grade crossings. These systems include four-quadrant gate systems, automatic gates, flashing-light signals, traffic control signals, actuated blank-out and variable message signs, and other active traffic control devices. relocated from Section 10D.01

A composite drawing (see Figure 8C-1) shows a post-mounted flashing-light signal (two light units mounted in a horizontal line), a flashing-light signal mounted on an overhead structure, and an automatic gate assembly.

Option:

Post-mounted and overhead-mounted flashing-light signals may be used separately or in combination with each other as determined by an engineering study. Also, flashing-light signals may be used without automatic gate assemblies, as determined by an engineering study.

Standard:

The meaning of flashing-light signals and gates shall be as stated in the "Uniform Vehicle Code" (see Sections 11-701 and 11-703 of the "UVC"), which is available from the National Committee on Uniform Traffic Laws and Ordinances (see Page i for the address).

Location and clearance dimensions for flashing-light signals and gates shall be as shown in Figure 8C-1.

When there is a curb, a horizontal clearance offset of at least 2 feet shall be provided from the face of the vertical curb to the closest part of the signal or gate arm in its upright position. When a cantilevered-arm flashing-light signal is used, the vertical clearance shall be at least 17 feet above the crown of the highway to the lowest point of the signal unit.

Where there is a shoulder, but no curb, a horizontal clearance offset of at least 2 feet from the edge of a paved or surfaced shoulder shall be provided, with an clearance offset of at least 6 feet from the edge of the traveled way.

Where there is no curb or shoulder, the minimum horizontal clearance offset shall be 6 feet from the edge of the traveled way.

Guidance:

Equipment housings (controller cabinets) should have a lateral clearance offset of at least 30 feet from the edge of the highway, and where railroad or LRT property and conditions allow, at least 25 feet from the nearest rail.

If a pedestrian route is provided, sufficient clearance from supports, posts, and gate mechanisms should be maintained for pedestrian travel.

When determined by an engineering study, a lateral escape route to the right of the highway in advance of the highway-rail grade crossing traffic control devices should be kept free of guardrail or other ground obstructions. Where guardrail is not deemed necessary or appropriate, barriers should not be used for protecting signal supports.

The same lateral clearance offset and roadside safety features should apply to flashing-light signal and automatic gate locations on both the right-hand and left-hand sides of the roadway.

Option:

In industrial or other areas involving only low-speed highway traffic or where signals are vulnerable to damage by turning truck traffic, guardrail may be installed to provide protection for the signal assembly.

Guidance:

Where both traffic control signals and flashing-light signals (with or without automatic gates) are in operation at the same highway-light rail transit highway-LRT grade crossing, the operation of the devices should be coordinated to avoid any display of conflicting signal indications. relocated from Section 10D.01

Option:

Audible devices may be operated in conjunction with the flashing lights or traffic control signals. relocated from Section 10D.01 and replaced by Standard paragraphs in Sections 8C.02 and 8C.10

Support:

Light rail transit LRT typically operates through grade crossings in semi-exclusive and mixed-use alignments at speeds between 10 and 65 mph. relocated from Section 10D.01

When light rail transit LRT speed is cited in this Part, it refers to the maximum speed at which light rail transit LRT vehicles are equipment is permitted to traverse a particular grade crossing. relocated from Section 10D.01

Section 8D.02 8C.02 Flashing-Light Signals, Post-Mounted

Support:

Section 8C.03 contains additional information regarding flashing-light signals at highway-LRT grade crossings in semi-exclusive and mixed-use alignments.

Standard:

If used, the flashing-light signal assembly (shown in Figure 8C-1) on the side of the highway shall include a standard Crossbuck (R15-1) sign, and where there is more than one track, a supplemental Number of Tracks (R15-2P) sign plaque, all of which indicate to motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians the location of a highway-rail grade crossing.

Option:

At highway-rail grade crossings, bells or other audible warning devices may be included in the assembly and may be operated in conjunction with the flashing lights to provide additional warning for pedestrians, and bicyclists, and/or other non-motorized road users.

Standard:

When indicating the approach or presence of a train rail traffic, the flashing-light signal shall display toward approaching highway traffic two red lights mounted in a horizontal line flashing alternately.

If used, flashing-light signals shall be placed to the right of approaching highway traffic on all highway approaches to a highway-rail grade crossing. They shall be located laterally with respect to the highway in conformance compliance with Figure 8C-1 except where such location would adversely affect signal visibility.

If used at a highway-rail grade crossings with highway traffic in both directions, back-to-back pairs of lights shall be placed on each side of the tracks. On multi-lane one-way streets and divided highways, flashing-light signals shall be placed on the approach side of the highway-rail grade crossing on both sides of the roadway or shall be placed above the highway.

Each red signal unit in the flashing-light signal shall flash alternately. The number of flashes per minute for each lamp shall be 35 minimum and 65 maximum. Each lamp shall be illuminated approximately the same length of time. Total time of illumination of each pair of lamps shall be the entire operating time. Flashing-light units shall use either 8-inch or 12-inch nominal diameter lenses.

Guidance:

In choosing between the 8-inch or 12-inch nominal diameter lenses for use in highway-rail grade crossing flashing-light signals, consideration should be given to the principles stated in Section 4D.07.

Standard:

Highway-rail Grade crossing flashing-light signals shall operate at a low voltage using storage batteries either as a primary or stand-by source of electrical energy. Provision shall be made to provide a source of energy for charging batteries.

Option:

Additional pairs of flashing-light units may be mounted on the same supporting post and directed toward vehicular traffic approaching the highway-rail grade crossing from other than the principal highway route, such as where there are approaching routes on highways closely adjacent to and parallel to the railroad track(s).

Standard:

References to lenses in this Section shall not be used to limit flashing-light signal optical units to incandescent lamps within optical assemblies that include lenses.

Support:

Research has resulted in flashing-light signal optical units that are not lenses, such as, but not limited to, light emitting diode (LED) flashing-light signal modules.

Section 8D.03 Flashing-Light Signals, Overhead Structures

Option:

Flashing-light signals may be installed on overhead structures or cantilevered supports as shown in Figure 8C-1 where needed for additional emphasis, or for better visibility to approaching traffic, particularly on multi-lane approaches or highways with profile restrictions.

If it is determined by an engineering study that one set of flashing lights on the cantilever arm is not sufficiently visible to road users, one or more additional sets of flashing lights may be mounted on the supporting post and/or on the cantilever arm.

Standard:

Breakaway or frangible bases shall not be used for overhead structures or cantilevered supports.

Except as otherwise provided in Paragraphs 13 through 15, flashing-light signals mounted overhead shall comply with the applicable provisions of this Section.

Section 10D.02 8C.03 Flashing-Light Signals at Highway-LRT Grade Crossings

Support:

Sections 8C.02 and 8D.03 contains additional details provisions regarding the design and operation of flashing-light signals, including those installed at highway-LRT grade crossings.

Standard:

Highway-light rail transit Highway-LRT grade crossings in semi-exclusive alignments shall be equipped with flashing-light signals where light rail transit LRT speeds exceed 35 mph. Flashing-light signals shall be clearly visible to motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists.

If flashing-light signals are in operation at a highway-LRT crossing that is used by pedestrians, bicyclists, and/or other non-motorized road users, an audible device such as a bell shall also be provided and shall be operated in conjunction with the flashing-light signals.

Guidance:

Where the crossing is at a location other than an intersection, where and light rail transit LRT speeds exceed 25 mph, flashing-light signals should be installed.

Option:

Traffic control signals may be used instead of flashing-light signals at highway-light rail transit highway-LRT grade crossings within highway-highway intersections where light rail transit LRT speeds do not exceed 35 mph. Traffic control signals or flashing-light signals may be used where the crossing is at a location other than an intersection, where light rail transit LRT speeds do not exceed 25 mph, and when the roadway is a low-volume street where prevailing speeds do not exceed 25 mph.

Section 8D.04 8C.04 Automatic Gates

Support:

An automatic gate is a traffic control device used as an adjunct to in conjunction with flashing-light signals.

Standard:

The automatic gate (see Figure 8C-1) shall consist of a drive mechanism and a fully retroreflectorized red- and white-striped gate arm with lights. When in the down position, the gate arm shall extend across the approaching lanes of highway traffic.

In the normal sequence of operation, unless constant warning time detection or other advanced system requires otherwise, the flashing-light signals and the lights on the gate arm (in its normal upright position) shall be activated immediately upon detection of the approaching train rail traffic. The gate arm shall start its downward motion not less than 3 seconds after the flashing-light signals start to operate, shall reach its horizontal position at least 5 seconds before the arrival of the train rail traffic, and shall remain in the down position as long as the train rail traffic occupies the highway-rail grade crossing.

When the train rail traffic clears the highway-rail grade crossing, and if no other train rail traffic is detected, the gate arm shall ascend to its upright position, following which the flashing-light signals and the lights on the gate arm shall cease operation.

Gate arms shall be fully retroreflectorized on both sides, and shall have 45-degree diagonal vertical stripes alternately red and white at 16-inch intervals measured horizontally, and.

Support:

It is acceptable to replace a damaged gate with a gate having vertical stripes even if the other existing gates at the same grade crossing have diagonal stripes; however, it is also acceptable to replace a damaged gate with a gate having diagonal stripes if the other existing gates at the same grade crossing have diagonal stripes in order to maintain consistency per the provisions of Paragraph 24 of the Introduction.

Standard:

Gate arms shall have at least three red lights as indicated provided in Figure 8C-1.

When activated, the gate arm light nearest the tip shall be illuminated continuously and the other lights shall flash alternately in unison with the flashing-light signals.

The entrance gate arm mechanism shall be designed to fail safe in the down position.

Guidance:

The gate arm should ascend to its upright position in not more than 12 seconds or less.

In its normal upright position, when no train rail traffic is approaching or occupying the highway-rail grade crossing, the gate arm should be either vertical or nearly so (see Figure 8C-1).

In the design of individual installations, consideration should be given to timing the operation of the gate arm to accommodate large and/or slow-moving highway vehicles.

The gates should cover the approaching highway to block all motor highway vehicles from being driven around the gate without crossing the centerline center line.

Option:

The effectiveness of gates may be enhanced by the use of channelizing devices or raised median islands to discourage driving around lowered automatic gates. relocated from Section 10D.03

Automatic gate installations may include median islands between opposing lanes on an approach to a highway-rail grade crossing.

Where gates are located in the median, additional median width may be required to provide the minimum clearance for the counterweight supports.

Automatic gates may be supplemented by cantilevered flashing-light signals (see Figure 8C-1) where there is a need for additional emphasis or better visibility. relocated from Section 10D.03

Section 8C.05 Use of Automatic Gates at LRT Grade Crossings

Guidance:

Highway-light rail transit Highway-LRT grade crossings in semi-exclusive alignments should be equipped with automatic gates and flashing-light signals (see Sections 8C.02 and 8C.03) where light rail transit LRT speeds exceed 35 mph. relocated from Section 10D.03

Option:

Where the a highway-light rail transit highway-LRT grade crossing is at a location other than an intersection, where light rail transit LRT speeds exceed 25 mph, automatic gates and flashing-light signals may be installed. relocated from Section 10D.03

Traffic control signals may be used instead of automatic gates at highway-light rail transit highway-LRT grade crossings within highway-highway intersections where light rail transit LRT speeds do not exceed 35 mph. Traffic control signals or flashing-light signals without automatic gates may be used where the crossing is at a location other than an intersection and where light rail transit LRT speeds do not exceed 25 mph and the roadway is a low-volume street where prevailing speeds do not exceed 25 mph. relocated from Section 10D.03

Section 8D.05 8C.06 Four-Quadrant Gate Systems

Option:

Four-Quadrant Gate systems may be installed to improve safety at highway-rail grade crossings based on an engineering study when less restrictive measures, such as automatic gates and median islands, are not effective.

Standard:

A Four-Quadrant Gate system shall consist of a series of entrance and exit automatic gates used as an adjunct to flashing-light signals to that control and block traffic road users on all lanes entering and exiting the highway-rail grade crossing.

The Four-Quadrant Gate system shall consist of use a series of drive mechanisms and fully retroreflectorized red- and white-striped gate arms with lights, and when in the down position the gate arms extend individually across the entrance and exit lanes of highway traffic the roadway as shown in Figure 8C-2. Standards contained in Sections 8C.01 through 8C.03 for flashing-light signals shall be followed for signal specifications, location, and clearance distances.

In the normal sequence of operation, unless constant warning time detection or other advanced system requires otherwise, the flashing-light signals and the lights on the gate arms (in their normal upright positions) shall be activated immediately upon the detection of the approaching train rail traffic. The gate arms for the entrance lanes of traffic shall start their downward motion not less than 3 seconds after the flashing-light signals start to operate and shall reach their horizontal position at least 5 seconds before the arrival of the train rail traffic. Exit gate arm activation and downward motion shall be based on detection or timing requirements established by an engineering study of the individual site. The gate arms shall remain in the down position as long as the train rail traffic occupies the highway-rail grade crossing.

When the train rail traffic clears the highway-rail grade crossing, and if no other train rail traffic is detected, the gate arms shall ascend to their upright positions, following which the flashing-light signals and the lights on the gate arms shall cease operation.

Gate arm design, colors, and lighting requirements shall be in accordance with the Standards contained in Section 8C.04.

Except as noted provided in the Option below Paragraph 19, the exit gate arm mechanism shall be designed to fail-safe in the up position.

At locations where gate arms are offset a sufficient distance for highway vehicles to drive between the entrance and exit gate arms, median islands (see Figure 8C-2) shall be installed in accordance with the needs established by an engineering study.

Guidance:

The gate arm should ascend to its upright position in not more than 12 seconds or less.

Four-Quadrant Gate systems should only be used in locations with constant warning time train detection.

The operating mode of the exit gates should be determined based upon an engineering study, with input from the affected railroad company or LRT agency.

If the Timed Exit Gate Operating Mode is used, the engineering study, with input from the affected railroad company or LRT agency, should also determine the Exit Gate Clearance Time (see definition in Section 1A.13).

If the Dynamic Exit Gate Operating Mode is used, highway vehicle intrusion detection devices that are part of a system that incorporates processing logic to detect the presence of highway vehicles within the minimum track clearance distance should be installed to control exit gate operation based on vehicle presence within the minimum track clearance distance.

Regardless of which exit gate operating mode is used, the Exit Gate Clearance Time should be considered when determining additional time requirements for the Minimum Warning Time.

If a Four-Quadrant Gate system is used at a location that is adjacent to an intersection that could cause highway vehicles to queue within the minimum track clearance distance, the Dynamic Exit Gate Operating Mode should be used unless an engineering study indicates otherwise.

If a Four-Quadrant Gate system is interconnected with a highway traffic signal, backup or standby power should be considered for the highway traffic signal. Also, circuitry should be installed to prevent the highway traffic signal from leaving the track clearance green interval until all of the gates are lowered.

At locations where sufficient space is available, exit gates should be set back positioned downstream from the track a distance that provides a safety zone long enough to accommodate at least one design vehicle between the exit gate and the nearest rail.

Four-Quadrant Gate systems should include remote health (status) monitoring capable of automatically notifying railroad or LRT signal maintenance personnel when anomalies have occurred within the system.

Option:

Exit gate arms may fail in the down position if the highway-rail grade crossing is equipped with remote health (status) monitoring.

Four-Quadrant Gate installations may include median islands between opposing lanes on an approach to a highway-rail grade crossing.

Guidance:

Where sufficient space is available, median islands should be at least 60 feet in length.

Section 8C.07 Wayside Horn Systems

Option:

A wayside horn system (see definition in Section 1A.13) may be installed in compliance with 49 CFR Part 222 to provide audible warning directed toward the road users at a highway-rail or highway-LRT grade crossing or at a pathway grade crossing.

Standard:

Wayside horn systems used at grade crossings where the locomotive horn is not sounded shall be equipped and shall operate in compliance with the requirements of Appendix E to 49 CFR Part 222.

Guidance:

The same lateral clearance and roadside safety features should apply to wayside horn systems as described in the Standards contained in Section 8C.01. Wayside horn systems, when mounted on a separate pole assembly, should be installed no closer than 15 feet from the center of the nearest track and should be positioned to not obstruct the motorists' line of sight of the flashing-light signals.

Section 8D.06 8C.08 Train Rail Traffic Detection

Standard:

The devices employed in active traffic control systems shall be actuated by some form of train rail traffic detection.

Train Rail traffic detection circuits, insofar as practical, shall be designed on the fail-safe principle.

Flashing-light signals shall operate for at least 20 seconds before the arrival of any train rail traffic, except as noted provided in the Option below Paragraph 4.

Option:

On tracks where all trains rail traffic operates at less than 20 mph and where flagging is performedroad users are directed by an employeeauthorized personon the ground to not enter the crossing at all times that approaching rail traffic is about to occupy the crossing, a shorter signal operating time for the flashing-light signals may be used.

Additional warning time may be provided when determined by an engineering study.

Guidance:

Where the speeds of different trains rail traffic on a given track vary considerably under normal operation, special devices or circuits should be installed to provide reasonably uniform notice in advance of all train rail traffic movements over the highway-rail grade crossing. Special control features should be used to eliminate the effects of station stops and switching operations within approach control circuits to prevent excessive activation of the traffic control devices while trains rail traffic are is stopped on or switching upon the approach track control circuits.

Section 8D.07 8C.09 Traffic Control Signals at or Near Highway-Rail Grade Crossings

Option:

Traffic control signals may be used instead of flashing-light signals to control road users at industrial highway-rail grade crossings and other places where train movements are very slow, such as in switching operations.

Standard:

The appropriate provisions of Part 4 relating to traffic control signal design, installation, and operation shall be applicable where traffic control signals are used to control road users instead of flashing-light signals at highway-rail grade crossings.

Traffic control signals shall not be used instead of flashing-light signals to control road users at a mainline highway-rail grade crossing.

Guidance:

If a highway-rail grade crossing is equipped with a flashing-light signal system and is located within 200 feet of an intersection or midblock location controlled by a traffic control signal, the traffic control signal should be provided with preemption in accordance with Section 4D.27.

Coordination with the flashing-light signal system, queue detection, or other alternatives should be considered for traffic control signals located farther than 200 feet from the highway-rail grade crossing. Factors to be considered should include traffic volumes, highway vehicle mix, highway vehicle and train approach speeds, frequency of trains, and queue lengths.

The highway agency or authority with jurisdiction, and the regulatory agency with statutory authority, if applicable, and the railroad company should jointly determine the preemption operation and the timing of traffic control signals interconnected with at highway-rail grade crossings adjacent to signalized highway intersections.

Support:

Section 4D.27 includes a recommendation that traffic control signals that are adjacent to highway-rail grade crossings and that are coordinated with the flashing-light signals or that include railroad preemption features be provided with a back-up power supply.

Standard:

Information regarding the type of preemption and any related timing parameters shall be provided to the railroad company so that they can design the appropriate train detection circuitry.

If preemption is provided, the normal sequence of traffic control signal indications shall be preempted upon the approach of trains to avoid entrapment of highway vehicles on the highway-rail grade crossing by conflicting aspects of the traffic control signals and the highway-rail grade crossing flashing-light signals.

This preemption feature shall have an electrical circuit of the closed-circuit principle, or a supervised communication circuit between the control circuits of the highway-rail grade crossing warning system and the traffic control signal controller. The traffic control signal controller preemptor shall be activated via the supervised communication circuit or the electrical circuit that is normally energized by the control circuits of the highway-rail grade crossing warning system. The approach of a train to a highway-rail grade crossing shall de-energize the electrical circuit or activate the supervised communication circuit, which in turn shall activate the traffic control signal controller preemptor. This shall establish and maintain the preemption condition during the time the highway-rail grade crossing warning system is activated, except that when crossing gates exist, the preemption condition shall be maintained until the crossing gates are energized to start their upward movement. When multiple or successive preemptions occur, train activation shall receive first priority.

Guidance:

If a highway-rail grade crossing is located within 50 feet (or within 75 feet for a highway that is regularly used by multi-unit highway vehicles) of an intersection controlled by a traffic control signal, the use of pre-signals to control traffic approaching the grade crossing should be considered.

Standard:

If used, the pre-signals shall display a steady red signal indication during the track clearance portion of a signal preemption sequence to prohibit additional highway vehicles from crossing the railroad track.

Guidance:

Consideration should be given to using visibility-limited signal faces (see definition in Section 1A.13) at the intersection for the downstream signal faces that control the approach that is equipped with pre-signals.

Option:

The pre-signal phase sequencing may be timed with an offset from the downstream signalized intersection such that the railroad track area and the area between the railroad track and the downstream signalized intersection is generally kept clear of stopped highway vehicles.

Standard:

If a pre-signal is installed at an interconnected highway-rail grade crossing near a signalized intersection, a STOP HERE ON RED (R10-6) sign shall be installed near the pre-signal or at the stop line if used. If there is a nearby signalized intersection with insufficient clear storage distance for a design vehicle, or the highway-rail grade crossing does not have gates, a No Turn on Red (R10-11, R10-11a, or R10-11b) sign (see Section 2B.53) shall be installed for the approach that crosses the railroad track, if applicable.

Option:

At locations where a highway-rail grade crossing is located more than 50 feet (or more than 75 feet for a highway regularly used by multi-unit highway vehicles) from an intersection controlled by a traffic control signal, a pre-signal may be used if an engineering study determines a need.

If highway traffic signals must be located within close proximity to the flashing-light signal system, the highway traffic signals may be mounted on the same overhead structure as the flashing-light signals.

Support:

Section 4C.10 describes the Intersection Near a Grade Crossing signal warrant that is intended for use at a location where the proximity to the intersection of a grade crossing on an intersection approach controlled by a STOP or YIELD sign is the principal reason to consider installing a traffic control signal.

Section 4D.27 describes additional considerations regarding preemption of traffic control signals at or near highway-rail grade crossings.

Section 10D.05 8C.10 Traffic Control Signals at or Near Highway-LRT Grade Crossings

Support:

There are two types of traffic control signals for controlling vehicular and light rail transit LRT movements at interfaces of the two modes. The first is the standard traffic control signal described in Part 4, which is the focus of this Section. The other type of signal is referred to as an light rail transit LRT signal and is discussed in Section 8C.11.

Standard:

The provisions of Parts 4 and Section 8C.09 relating to traffic control signal design, installation, and operation, including interconnection with nearby automatic gates or flashing-light signals, shall be applicable as appropriate where traffic control signals are used at highway-light rail transit highway-LRT grade crossings.

If traffic control signals are in operation at a crossing that is used by pedestrians, bicyclists, and/or other non-motorized road users, an audible device such as a bell shall also be provided and shall be operated in conjunction with the traffic control signals.

Guidance:

When a highway-light rail transit highway-LRT grade crossing equipped with a flashing-light signal system is located within 200 feet of an intersection or midblock location controlled by a traffic control signal, the traffic control signal should be provided with preemption in accordance with Section 4D.27.

Coordination with the flashing-light signal system should be considered for traffic control signals located more than 200 feet from the crossing. Factors to be considered should include traffic volumes, highway vehicle mix, highway vehicle and light rail transit LRT approach speeds, frequency of light rail transit LRT vehicles traffic, and queue lengths.

If the highway traffic signal has emergency-vehicle preemption capability, it should be coordinated with light rail transit LRT operation.

Where light rail transit LRT operates in a wide median, highway vehicles crossing the tracks and being controlled by both near and far side traffic signal faces should receive a protected left-turn green phase from the far side signal face to clear highway vehicles from the crossing when light rail transit LRT vehicles are equipment is approaching the crossing.

Option:

Green indications may be provided during light rail transit LRT phases for highway vehicle, pedestrian, and bicycle movements that do not conflict with light rail transit LRT movements.

Traffic control signals may be installed in addition to four-quadrant gate systems and automatic gates at a highway-light rail transit highway-LRT crossing if the crossing occurs within a highway-highway intersection and if the traffic control signals meet the warrants described in Chapter 4C.

At a location other than an intersection, when light rail transit LRT speeds are less than 25 mph, traffic control signals alone may be used to control road users at highway-light rail transit highway-LRT grade crossings only when justified by an engineering study.

Typical circumstances may include:

Geometric conditions preclude the installation of highway-light rail transit highway-LRT grade crossing warning devices.
Light rail transit LRT vehicles share the same roadway with road users.
Traffic control signals already exist.

Support:

See Section 4D.27 for considerations contains information regarding traffic control signals at or near highway-light rail transit highway-LRT grade crossings that are not equipped with highway-light rail transit highway-LRT grade crossing warning devices.

Section 10D.06 Highway Traffic Signal Preemption Turning Restrictions

Guidance:

When a light rail transit highway-LRT grade crossing exists within a signalized intersection, consideration should be given to providing separately controlled Protected Only Mode turn phases signal faces (see definition in Section 1A.13) for the movements crossing the tracks (see Section 4A.02).

Standard:

Separate turn signal faces that are provided for separately controlled Protected Only Mode turn movements toward the crossing shall display a steady red indication during the approach and/or passage of light rail transit LRT vehicles traffic.

Guidance:

When a signalized intersection that is located within 200 feet of a highway-light rail transit highway-LRT grade crossing is preempted, all existing turning movements toward the highway-light rail transit highway-LRT grade crossing should be prohibited.

Support:

Section 8B.08 contains information regarding the prohibition of turning movements toward the crossing during preemption.

Part 4 contains information regarding signal phasing and timing requirements.

Option:

An activated blank-out or changeable message sign and/or an appropriate highway traffic signal display may be used to prohibit turning movements toward the crossing during preemption (see Section 8B.08).

Standard:

Messages on the activated blank-out or changeable message signs shall be visible only when the highway-light rail transit intersection restriction is in effect.

Section 10D.07 8C.11 Use of Traffic Control Signals for Control of Light Rail Transit LRT Vehicles at Grade Crossings

Guidance:

Light rail transit LRT movements in semi-exclusive alignments at non-gated grade crossings that are equipped with traffic control signals should be controlled by special light rail transit LRT signal indications.

Support:

Examples of light rail transit LRT traffic control signals, that are used to control light rail transit LRT movements only, are shown should display the signal indications illustrated in Figure 8C-3.

Support:

Section 4D.27 contains information about the use of the signal indications shown in Figure 8C-3 for the control of exclusive bus movements at "queue jumper lanes" and for the control of exclusive bus rapid transit movements on semi-exclusive or mixed-use alignments.

Option:

Standard traffic control signals may be used instead of light rail transit LRT traffic control signals to control the movement of light rail transit LRT vehicles (see Section 8C.10).

Standard:

If a separate set of standard traffic control signal indications (red, yellow, and green circular and arrow indications) is used to control light rail transit LRT movements, the indications shall be positioned so they are not visible to motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists (see Section 4D.12).

If the light rail transit LRT crossing control is separate from the intersection control, the two shall be interconnected. The light rail LRT signal phase shall not be terminated until after the light rail transit LRT vehicle has cleared the crossing.

Option:

Light rail transit LRT signals may be used at grade crossings and at intersections in mixed-use alignments in conjunction with standard traffic control signals where special light rail transit LRT signal phases are used to accommodate turning light rail transit LRT vehicles or where additional light rail transit LRT clearance time is desirable.

Guidance:

Light rail transit LRT signal faces should be separated vertically or horizontally from the nearest highway traffic signal face for the same approach by at least 3 feet.

Section 8C.12 Grade Crossings Within or In Close Proximity to Circular Intersections

Support:

At circular intersections, such as roundabouts and traffic circles, that include or are within close proximity to a grade crossing, a queue of vehicular traffic could cause highway vehicles to stop on the grade crossing.

Standard:

Where circular intersections include or are within 200 feet of a grade crossing, an engineering study shall be made to determine if queuing could impact the grade crossing. If traffic queues impact the grade crossing, provisions shall be made to clear highway traffic from the grade crossing prior to the arrival of rail traffic.

Support:

Among the actions that can be taken to keep the grade crossing clear of traffic or to clear traffic from the grade crossing prior to the arrival of rail traffic are the following:

Elimination of the circular intersection,
Geometric design revisions,
Grade crossing regulatory and warning devices,
Highway traffic signals,
Traffic metering devices,
Activated signs, or
A combination of these or other actions.

Section 10D.08 8C.13 Pedestrian and Bicycle Signals and Crossings at LRT Grade Crossings

Guidance:

Where light rail transit LRT tracks are immediately adjacent to other tracks or a road, pedestrian signalization should be designed to avoid having pedestrians wait between sets of tracks or between the tracks and the road. If adequate space exists for a pedestrian refuge and is justified based on engineering judgment, additional pedestrian signal indicators heads, signing, and detectors should be installed (see Section 4E.08).

Standard:

When used at LRT crossings, pedestrian signal heads shall be in accordance comply with the provisions of Section 4E.04.

Guidance:

Flashing-light signals (see Figure 8C-4) with a Crossbuck (R15-1) sign and an audible device should be installed at pedestrian and bicycle crossings where an engineering study has determined that the sight distance is not sufficient for pedestrians and bicyclists to complete their crossing prior to the arrival of the light rail transit LRT vehicle traffic at the crossing, or where light rail transit LRT speeds exceed 35 mph.

If an engineering study shows that flashing-light signals alone with a Crossbuck sign and an audible device would not provide sufficient notice of an approaching light rail transit LRT vehicle traffic, the LOOK (R15-8) sign (see Figure 8C-4) and/or pedestrian gates should be considered (see Figures 8C-5 through 8C-7).

Support:

A pedestrian gate is similar to an automatic gate except the gate arm is shorter.

The swing gate alerts pedestrians to the light rail transit LRT tracks that are to be crossed. Swing gates are designed to open away from the tracks, requiring users to pull the gate open to cross, but permitting a quick exit from the trackway, and to automatically close.

Option:

Swing gates may be installed across pedestrian and bicycle walkways (see Figure 8C-8).

Pedestrian barriers at offset crossings may be used at pedestrian and bicycle crossings as passive devices that force users to face approaching light rail transit LRT before entering the trackway (see Figures 8C-9 and 8C-10).

CHAPTER 8D. PATHWAY GRADE CROSSINGS

Section 8D.01 Purpose

Support:

Traffic control for pathway grade crossings includes all signs, signals, markings, other warning devices, and their supports at pathway grade crossings and along pathway approaches to grade crossings. The function of this traffic control is to promote safety and provide effective operation of both rail and pathway traffic at pathway grade crossings.

Except as specifically provided in this Chapter, sidewalks are considered to be part of a highway-rail or highway-LRT grade crossing rather than a pathway grade crossing, and are covered by the provisions of Chapters 8B and 8C rather than by the provisions of this Chapter. However, many of the treatments outlined in this Chapter are applicable to sidewalks adjacent to highway-rail or highway-LRT grade crossings, including detectable warnings, swing gates, and automatic gates.

Crosswalks at intersections where pedestrians cross LRT tracks in mixed-use alignments are covered by the provisions of Section 3B.18 rather than by the provisions of this Chapter.

Section 8D.02 Use of Standard Devices, Systems, and Practices

Guidance:

The public agency with jurisdiction over the pathway and the regulatory agency with statutory authority, if applicable, should jointly determine the need and selection of devices at a pathway grade crossing, including the appropriate traffic control system to be used.

Section 8D.03 Pathway Grade Crossing Signs and Markings

Standard:

Pathway grade crossing signs shall be standard in shape, legend, and color.

Traffic control devices mounted adjacent to pathways at a height of less than 8 feet measured vertically from the bottom edge of the device to the elevation of the near edge of the pathway surface shall have a minimum lateral offset of 2 feet from the near edge of the device to the near edge of the pathway (see Figure 9B-1).

The minimum mounting height for post-mounted signs on pathways shall be 4 feet, measured vertically from the bottom edge of the sign to the elevation of the near edge of the pathway surface (see Figure 9B-1).

Pathway grade crossing traffic control devices shall be located a minimum of 12 feet from the center of the nearest track.

The minimum sizes of pathway grade crossing signs shall be as shown in the shared-use path column in Table 9B-1.

When overhead traffic control devices are used on pathways, the clearance from the bottom edge of the device to the pathway surface directly under the sign or device shall be at least 8 feet.

Guidance:

If pathway users include those who travel faster than pedestrians, such as bicyclists or skaters, the use of warning signs and pavement markings in advance of the pathway grade crossing (see Figure 8D-1) should be considered.

Section 8D.04 Stop Lines, Edge Lines, and Detectable Warnings

Guidance:

If used at pathway grade crossings, the pathway stop line should be a transverse line at the point where a pathway user is to stop. The pathway stop line should be placed at least 2 feet further from the nearest rail than the gate, counterweight, or flashing-light signals (if any of these are present) is placed, and at least 12 feet from the nearest rail.

Option:

Edge lines (see Section 3B.06) may be used on approach to and across the tracks at a pathway grade crossing, a sidewalk at a highway-rail or highway-LRT grade crossing, or a station crossing to delineate the designated pathway user route.

Support:

Edge line delineation can be beneficial where the distance across the tracks is long, commonly because of a skewed grade crossing or because of multiple tracks, or where the pathway surface is immediately adjacent to a traveled way.

Detectable warning surfaces (see Section 3B.18) that contrast visually with adjacent walking surfaces, either light-on-dark or dark-on-light, can be used to warn pedestrians about the locations of the tracks at a grade crossing. The "Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities (ADAAG)" (see Section 1A.11) contains specifications for design and placement of detectable warning surfaces.

Section 8D.05 Passive Devices for Pathway Grade Crossings

Standard:

Except as provided in Paragraph 2, where active traffic control devices are not used, a Crossbuck Assembly shall be installed on each approach to a pathway grade crossing.

Option:

The Crossbuck Assembly may be omitted at station crossings and on the approaches to a pathway grade crossing that is located within 25 feet of the traveled way at a highway-rail or highway-LRT grade crossing.

Guidance:

The pathway user's ability to detect the presence of approaching rail traffic should be considered in determining the type and placement of traffic control devices or design features (such as fencing or swing gates).

Nighttime visibility should be considered if design features (such as fencing or swing gates) are used to channelize pathway users.

If automatic gates and swing gates are used, the pathway should be channelized to direct users to the entrance to and exit from the pathway grade crossing.

Standard:

If used, swing gates shall be designed to open away from the track(s) so that pathway users can quickly push the gate open when moving away from the track(s). If used, swing gates shall be designed to automatically return to the closed position after each use.

Option:

When used in conjunction with automatic gates at pathway grade crossings, swing gates may be equipped with a latching device that permits the gate to be opened only from the track side of the gate.

Support:

The "Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities (ADAAG)" (see Section 1A.11) contains information regarding spring hinges and door and gate opening forces for swing gates.

Section 8D.06 Active Traffic Control Systems for Pathway Grade Crossings

Standard:

If used at a pathway grade crossing, an active traffic control system shall include flashing-light signals for each direction of the pathway. A bell or other audible warning device shall also be provided.

Option:

Separate active traffic control devices may be omitted at a pathway grade crossing that is located within 25 feet of the traveled way of a highway-rail or highway-LRT grade crossing that is equipped with an active traffic control system.

Standard:

If used at pathway grade crossings, alternately flashing red lights shall be aligned horizontally and the light units shall have a diameter of at least 4 inches. The minimum mounting height of the flashing red lights shall be 4 feet, measured vertically from the bottom edge of the lights to the elevation of the near edge of the pathway surface.

Option:

Traffic control devices may be installed between the tracks at multiple track crossings at stations.

Standard:

The mounting height for flashing lights that are installed between the tracks at multiple track crossings at stations shall be a minimum of 1 foot, measured vertically from the bottom edge of the lights to the elevation of the near edge of the pathway surface.

Option:

Automatic gates may be used at pathway grade crossings.

Guidance:

If used at a pathway grade crossing, the height of the automatic gate arm when in the down position should be a minimum of 2.5 feet and a maximum of 4 feet above the sidewalk.

If used, the gate configuration, which might include a combination of automatic gates and swing gates, should provide for full width coverage of the pathway on both approaches to the track.

Standard:

Where a sidewalk is located between the edge of a roadway and the support for a gate arm that extends across the sidewalk and into the roadway, the location, placement, and height prescribed for vehicular gates shall be used (see Section 8C.04).

Guidance:

If a separate automatic gate is used for a sidewalk, the height of the gate arm when in the down position should be a minimum of 2.5 feet and a maximum of 4 feet above the sidewalk.

If a separate automatic gate is used for a sidewalk at a highway-rail or highway-LRT grade crossing, instead of a supplemental or auxiliary gate arm installed as a part of the same mechanism as the vehicular gate, a separate mechanism should be provided for the sidewalk gate to prevent a pedestrian from raising the vehicular gate.

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Change List for the 2009 Edition of the MUTCD Part 8

CHAPTER 8A. GENERAL

Section 8A.01 Introduction

Section 8A.02 Use of Standard Devices, Systems, and Practices at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings

Section 10A.02 8A.03 Use of Standard Devices, Systems, and Practices at Highway-LRT Grade Crossings

Section 8A.02 8A.04 Uniform Provisions

Section 8A.03 8A.05 Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Elimination

Section 8C.01 8A.06 Illumination at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings relocated from Chapter 8C

Section 8A.07 Quiet Zone Treatments at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings

Section 8A.05 8A.08 Temporary Traffic Control Zones

CHAPTER 8B. SIGNS AND MARKINGS

Section 8B.01 Purpose

Section 8B.02 Sizes of Grade Crossing Signs

Section 8B.03 Highway-Rail Grade Crossing (Crossbuck) Sign (R15-1) and Number of Tracks Sign Plaque (R15-2P) at Active and Passive Grade Crossings Paragraph 7 of this Section was relocated to Section 8B.04

Section 8B.08 8B.04 Crossbuck Assemblies with YIELD or STOP (R1-1) or YIELD (R1-2) Signs at Passive Highway-Rail Grade Crossings

Section 10C.04 8B.05 Use of STOP (R1-1) or YIELD (R1-2) Signs without Crossbuck Signs at Highway-Light Rail Transit Highway-LRT Grade Crossings

Section 8B.04 8B.06 Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Advance Warning Signs (W10 Series)

Section 8B.05 8B.07 EXEMPT Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Signs Plaques (R15-3P, W10-1aP)

Section 8B.06 8B.08 Turn Restrictions During Preemption

Section 8B.07 8B.09 DO NOT STOP ON TRACKS Sign (R8-8)

Section 8B.09 8B.10 TRACKS OUT OF SERVICE Sign (R8-9)

Section 8B.10 8B.11 STOP HERE WHEN FLASHING Sign (R8-10, R8-10a)

Section 8B.11 8B.12 STOP HERE ON RED Sign (R10-6, R10-6a)

Section 10C.13 8B.13 Light Rail Transit Only Lane Signs (R15-4 Series)

Section 10C.14 8B.14 Do Not Pass Light Rail Transit Signs (R15-5, R15-5a)

Section 10C.12 8B.15 No Motor Vehicles On Tracks Signs (R15-6, R15-6a)

Section 10C.11 8B.16 Divided Highway with Light Rail Transit Crossing Signs (R15-7 Series)

Section 8B.16 8B.17 LOOK Sign (R15-8)

Section 8B.12 8B.18 Emergency Notification Sign (I-13 or I-13a)

Section 10C.17 8B.19 Light Rail Transit Approaching-Activated Blank-Out Warning Sign (W10-7)

Section 8B.13 8B.20 TRAINS MAY EXCEED 80 MPH Sign (W10-8)

Section 8B.14 8B.21 NO TRAIN HORN Sign and Plaque (W10-9, W10-9P)

Section 8B.15 8B.22 NO SIGNAL Sign (W10-10) or NO GATES OR LIGHTS Sign Plaque (W10-13P)

Section 8B.17 8B.23 Low Ground Clearance Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Sign (W10-5)

Section 8B.18 8B.24 Storage Space Signs (W10-11, W10-11a, W10-11b)

Section 8B.19 8B.25 Skewed Crossing Sign (W10-12)

Section 10C.20 8B.26 Light Rail Transit Station Sign (I-12)

Section 8B.20 8B.27 Pavement Markings

Section 8B.21 8B.28 Stop and Yield Lines

Section 8B.22 8B.29 Dynamic Envelope Markings

CHAPTER 8C. ILLUMINATION relocated to Section 8A.06

CHAPTER 8D 8C. FLASHING-LIGHT SIGNALS, GATES, AND TRAFFIC CONTROL SIGNALS

Section 8D.01 8C.01 Introduction

Section 8D.02 8C.02 Flashing-Light Signals, Post-Mounted

Section 8D.03 Flashing-Light Signals, Overhead Structures

Section 10D.02 8C.03 Flashing-Light Signals at Highway-LRT Grade Crossings

Section 8D.04 8C.04 Automatic Gates

Section 8C.05 Use of Automatic Gates at LRT Grade Crossings

Section 8D.05 8C.06 Four-Quadrant Gate Systems

Section 8C.07 Wayside Horn Systems

Section 8D.06 8C.08 Train Rail Traffic Detection

Section 8D.07 8C.09 Traffic Control Signals at or Near Highway-Rail Grade Crossings

Section 10D.05 8C.10 Traffic Control Signals at or Near Highway-LRT Grade Crossings

Section 10D.06 Highway Traffic Signal Preemption Turning Restrictions

Section 10D.07 8C.11 Use of Traffic Control Signals for Control of Light Rail Transit LRT Vehicles at Grade Crossings

Section 8C.12 Grade Crossings Within or In Close Proximity to Circular Intersections

Section 10D.08 8C.13 Pedestrian and Bicycle Signals and Crossings at LRT Grade Crossings

CHAPTER 8D. PATHWAY GRADE CROSSINGS

Section 8D.01 Purpose

Section 8D.02 Use of Standard Devices, Systems, and Practices

Section 8D.03 Pathway Grade Crossing Signs and Markings

Section 8D.04 Stop Lines, Edge Lines, and Detectable Warnings

Section 8D.05 Passive Devices for Pathway Grade Crossings

Section 8D.06 Active Traffic Control Systems for Pathway Grade Crossings

Change List for the 2009 Edition of the MUTCD
Part 8