Category:645 Mailbox Turnouts and Supports

645.1 Discussion

Mailbox turnouts may be provided on resurfacing projects that include some earthwork, such as shaping shoulders. Consideration is given to inclusion of this item where the finished shoulders are not of sufficient width to allow a vehicle to get completely off the travelway.

Shoulder widths less than 8 ft. require special mailbox turnouts in accordance with the standard plans. When shoulder widths are 8 ft. or greater, special mailbox turnouts are not necessary.

When a stabilized shoulder is not provided, the turnout is constructed with 4 in. of Type 1 or 2 aggregate with a 2 in. plant mix bituminous pavement surfacing.

Use pipe only when required by restrictive right of way or extreme drainage condition.

Examples of acceptable mailbox assemblies are available. It is important to remember that the maximum strength support for erecting mailboxes on a highway is a nominal 4 in. x 4 in. square or 4 1/2 in. diameter wood post or a 1 1/2 in. to 2 in. standard steel or aluminum pipe post. The post is embedded a maximum of 24 in. into the ground.

During the design stage of the project, any mailbox support that does not meet these criteria is noted by location. A written notice is sent to the local postmaster identifying these locations and requesting their assistance in requiring the mail patron to change the mailbox support to comply with these criteria. This will reduce the potential safety hazard along the roadway that results from the use of non-complying mailbox supports. The design file will document that these mailboxes were checked and the action taken through the local postmaster. The District Operations Engineer is furnished copies of necessary correspondence for use after award of the contract.