Legislative & Regulatory Update: Here's
What's Happening...
from On the Move, Summer (June) Quarter 1999, Volume 12, Number 2
Request for Interpretation for Fluorescent Yellow Sheeting on
Warning Signs Underway
FHWA recently processed several requests for interpretation regarding the use of the color
fluorescent yellow for warning devices on public roads. Based on the material received, it appears
the fluorescent yellow sheeting material does conform to the standard daytime chromaticity limits
and reflectance limits found in 23 CFR, part 655, Subpart F, Appendix. FHWA is currently
revising the color specification for both existing and unassigned colors, including fluorescent
yellow, for use on highway signs and pavement markings. You can expect a Notice of Proposed
Rulemaking to be published for public comment this fall.
For reference purposes FHWA has numbered and titles this interpretation: "Request II-363
(Intr)--Fluorescent Yellow Sheeting on Warning Signs." If you need further information, please
contact Cherie L. Kittle at (202) 366-2188.
Minimum Retroreflectivity for Traffic Control Devices
Due to the need for additional research to develop minimum retroreflectivity values for pavement
markings, AASHTO has initiated a policy resolution (PR-17-98) regarding minimum
retroreflectivity of traffic control devices. This resolves that "a task force be appointed...with
representatives...from...appropriate highway subcommittees, to work in partnership with the
private sector, other interests, and FHWA, to review the research findings of sign
retroreflectivity...[and requests] that FHWA...refrain from initiating rulemaking on this matter
until such cooperative research is achieved."
In response to this request, FHWA has stopped all rulemaking actions on sign and pavement
marking retroreflectivity guidelines. FHWA is a part of the AASHTO task force and has provided
completed research reports on sign retroreflectivity and a draft research report on pavement
marking retroreflectivity. It is anticipated that the task force will complete their report by fall
1999 and a rulemaking for retroreflectivity can be placed in the Federal Register in the spring of
2000.
National Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse
AASHTO has initiated a policy resolution (PR-6-98) regarding the National Work Zone Safety
Information Clearinghouse. This reaffirms AASHTO's "commitment to work area safety and its
role with ARTBA and AGC in furthering this safety effort through the Clearinghouse." AASHTO
further "urges it's member states to contribute to the Clearinghouse through its sponsors ARTBA,
the sum of $1,000 for FY1999, $1,500 for FY2000, and $2,000 for FY2001." This is
approximately 20 percent of the non-federal share of Clearinghouse costs. "The Board of
Advisors of the Clearinghouse is requested to develop a financial support plan for the
Clearinghouse that may be approved by AASHTO prior to the designation of any AASHTO
sponsored financial support for the Clearinghouse by any member state for FY2002 and beyond."