How does FDOT decide whether a traffic signal should be installed on a State Highway?
The Department follows federal guidelines (Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices – MUTCD) that establish minimum conditions under which a signal installation should be considered. From these federal guidelines, the Department has developed theManual on Unifrom Traffic Studies (MUTS). Both the MUTCD and MUTS manuals provide a process for the traffic engineer to follow while investigating conditions and circumstances regarding the installation of a new traffic signal or improve the operation of an existing traffic signal. They contain criteria (warrants) which are used to define the need for, and appropriateness of a particular traffic control device. These warrants are usually expressed in the form of numerical requirements such as the volume of vehicular or pedestrian traffic. Warrants should be viewed as guidelines, not as absolute values. However, if no warrants are met, a signal will not be installed. Satisfaction of a warrant is not a guarantee that the signal is needed. The wa
