FHWA issues updated information on devices at mid-block pedestrian crossings

MUTCD update addresses channelizing devices

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) recently issued information about a new official interpretation of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) for "Channelizing Devices at Mid-Block Pedestrian Crossings in Conjunction with In-Street Pedestrian Crossing (R1-6 Series) Signs."

Official Ruling No. 3(09)-61 (I) clarifies instructions for using channelizing devices such as tubular markers at mid-block crosswalk locations, according to an update from FHWA.

FHWA offered the following background information:

“The FHWA is overseeing a number of experiments evaluating alternative placement and use of multiple In-Street Pedestrian Crossing signs in a variety of configurations at mid-block crosswalks. While the use or placement of these signs outside the provisions of the MUTCD is subject to experimental approval, channelizing devices, such as tubular markers, can be used to supplement the In-Street signs in a compliant configuration without the need for experimental approval.”

The interpretation letter provides additional information and diagrams.