Possible Utah roadsign improvements

Discussion in 'Ideas and Suggestions' started by Glorious_duck, Dec 10, 2019.

  1. Glorious_duck

    Glorious_duck
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    Joined:
    Feb 13, 2016
    Messages:
    137
    The new Utah update just came out, and while the map updates have been superb, and look amazing, some of the road signs let me down a little.

    While they're not bad in their own regard, it's quite clear to someone who reads the US Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for fun, that they're done by someone who does not live in the US.

    I will be referencing page numbers in the 2009 MUTCD, available at link provided: https://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/pdfs/2009r1r2/mutcd2009r1r2edition.pdf


    The "RAMP 30 MPH" sign here is incorrect. The issue with this, first of which being that the ramp speed limit signs are reserved exclusively for controlled access highway exit and entrance ramps. The yellow advisory sign is technically correct, but acts only as a 'suggested speed', and frankly given the turn should probably be closer to a 20 MPH sign. Reference page 111-114 of the MUTCD.



    The speed limit sign should not be affixed to the same signpost as a warning sign. The number on the sign should also be larger, as to be readable from a further distance. Reference page 56-59 of the MUTCD.



    This T-intersection sign should be moved to the end or centrepoint of the bridge. The beginning of the bridge should be signposted with either a "Narrow bridge" or "One lane bridge" sign, whichever is preferred given the width. Reference page 118 of the MUTCD.



    This sign pair is the one I have the greatest qualm with. Firstly, the term "lay-by" is exclusive to the UK, Australia and NZ. The US uses the term "Rest area" in regards to either small turnoffs on the road that may include limited facilities, or "Service station" for larger rest areas that often include gas stations, etc. The "layby" sign is clearly from the UK as no US advisory signs (except for highway guidance and exit signs) use lowercase text. A blue "Rest area" sign should be used here. Reference page 300-309 of the MUTCD.


    Additional improvements that could be made include signposting the ranger station and other recreational and cultural interest areas. Reference page 332-341 of the MUTCD.

    The MUTCD in general is an interesting read for map devs creating maps set in the US, as it delineates all signs, road markings, traffic lights, and pretty much everything under the sun that you'd ever need for roads.

    All the best.
     
    • Informative Informative x 5
    • Agree Agree x 1
  2. airman426

    airman426
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    Sep 7, 2015
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    I agree, except for the Lay-by sign. While it is incorrect for the United States, it does not exclusively have to be "Rest Area". It could also be "Scenic Overlook", "Scenic Area", if it provides some beauty aspect, or as the less common term of "Wayside", etc. In fact, a rest area is, at minimum, accompanied by some form of toilet or restroom facilities, whereas these previously mentioned terms are more sparsely equipped. That being said, everything else definitely needs to be updated to bring it back into code.:p
     
    • Agree Agree x 1
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