Walter Workzone: Speaking out About the 2003 TMUTCD

The revised edition of the TMUTCD became effective January 17, 2003, and it represents the biggest change in the manual in more than 20 years. The manual shall apply to all traffic control devices installed on or after 1/17/2003; All existing traffic control devices or installations not in conformance with standards in this manual shall be changed to conform to the new standards when replacement becomes necessary. One major change to the manual is that the headings Standard, Guidance, Option and Support are used throughout the manual to classify the text. All sign supports must now be crashworthy. TxDOT is offering a list of Compliant Work Zone Traffic Control Devices on their website. Also, signs must be properly maintained for cleanliness, visibility, and correct positioning. Signs that have lost significant legibility shall be promptly replaced. Devices that are damaged or have lost a significant amount of their retroreflectivity and effectiveness shall be replaced. All temporary traffic control devices shall be removed as soon as practical when they are no longer needed. When work is suspended for short periods of time, temporary traffic control devices that are no longer appropriate shall be removed or covered.