Requirement for using channelizing devices (e.g. cones) to separate traffic from the work area for a work operation

Montana DOT requires channelizing devices to separate the travel lane from the work zone if the work zone is less than 1000 meters in length and was not using pilot cars through the work zone. If crews use pilot cars and flaggers, MDOT would not typically require use of channelizing devices to separate the work area from the traveling public. This gives strings of cars that are being piloted in the opposite direction the ability to pass one another and/or allows the pilot car to move traffic from one lane to the other if construction operations require it. This changing of lanes in the work zone may mean fewer flaggers and allow the traveling public to get through the work zone with less waiting and at a faster safer speed if a pilot car is used.