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FHWA publishes NPA on Pavement Marking Retroreflectivity
5/1/2010
On April 22, 2010, the FHWA issued a Notice of Proposed Amendments (NPA) in the Federal Register to include minimum maintained levels of pavement marking retroreflectivity. Also proposed is MUTCD language relating to maintaining minimum levels of retroreflectivity. The FHWA proposes to require that agencies or officials having jurisdiction use a method designed to maintain retroreflectivity of white and yellow longitudinal pavement markings that are required or recommended by the MUTCD and applies to certain types of roads and on roads exceeding certain minimum volumes. The proposed table of minimum retroreflectivity levels addresses two types of pavement marking configurations--1) two-lane roads with center line markings only, and 2) all other roads-- and two posted speed categories--1) 35 to 50 mph, and 2) 55 mph and higher. The minimum RL values do not apply if retroreflective RPMs supplement for a longitudinal pavement marking where continuous roadway lighting assures that pavement markings are visible. The proposed phase-in compliance is 4 years from the date of the final rule for implementation of a maintenance method and 6 years for replacement of pavement markings that fail to meet the established minimum levels.
To read the NPA in its entirety, visit http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2010/2010-9294.htm
The comment period remains open until August 20, 2010. Comments can be made at http://www.regulations.gov.
