FHWA Sets Rule for Brighter Highway Signs

A new federal rule will require highway signs with brighter reflection, the Federal Highway Administration said Thursday.

The new rule also requires public agencies to adopt sign maintenance methods to ensure highway signs can be read from greater distances, the agency said.

FHWA Administrator J. Richard Capka said the new rule would help make signs more visible and prevent fatalities.

“The new standards will make highway signs as visible as possible to drivers in low-light conditions,” said Administrator Capka. “The holidays are meant to be merry and bright, and now highways will be safer and brighter.”
     
The new requirements are included in the 2nd Edition of the 2003 Manual of Traffic Control Devices, FHWA said.