FHWA Announces Dates for Webinars on Proposed Updates to MUTCD
Public comment period extended until May 14, 2021
WASHINGTON – The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) today announced a series of webinars on proposed revisions to the “Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways” (MUTCD). This is the first proposed comprehensive update in more than a decade to a document that sets national standards for the use of traffic signs, signals and markings on all roads open to public travel in the United States.
“The Manual has not been revised in more than a decade and during that time we have learned a lot about how to ensure that all roadway users are safe,” said Acting Federal Highway Administrator Stephanie Pollack. “We want to hear from you – whether you manage a transportation agency or are a traffic engineer, urban planner, safety advocate, driver, pedestrian or bicyclist,” Pollack added. “Your input will help shape the future of traffic control on our highway system and this important document for years to come.”
FHWA officials said the webinars are intended to help all stakeholders better understand the proposed changes and encourage them to submit comments on the proposals, and on other potential changes for consideration, before the extended comment period ends on May 14, 2021.
The webinars do not replace the public comment process but, instead, are intended to help potential commenters understand the MUTCD’s proposed revisions.
The webinars will be held at 2 p.m. ET on the following dates:
March 18, 2021 – Introduction and Overview
An overview of the MUTCD revision process, highlights of some of the major changes proposed, and how you can participate in providing comment.
March 25, 2021 – Pedestrians, Bicycles, and Transit
Highlights of proposed changes related to traffic control devices for pedestrian, bicycle, and transit facilities.
April 1, 2021 – Urban Traffic Control
Highlights of proposed changes related to traffic control devices in urban centers and urbanized communities.
Each webinar will also include background information on navigating the comment process. For more information about the MUTCD and to register for the upcoming webinars, visit https://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/ where recordings of each webinar will also be posted.
The MUTCD is the national standard for traffic signs, signals, and pavement markings that guide users of the nation’s streets and highways. The proposed revisions are intended to offer many proven advancements while remaining flexible to accommodate newer technologies and operational strategies.
As part of the process of updating the MUTCD, FHWA continues to gather feedback from the docket that is now open for public comment at the Federal Register.