903.5 Guide Signs - Freeways and Expressways (MUTCD Chapter 2E)

903.5.1 Scope of Freeway and Expressway Guide Sign Standards (MUTCD Section 2E.01)

Support. The provisions of EPG 903.5 provide a uniform and effective system of signing for high-volume, high-speed motor vehicle traffic on freeways and expressways. The requirements and specifications for expressway signing exceed those for conventional roads (see EPG 903.4), but are less than those for freeway signing. Since there are many geometric design variables to be found in existing roads, a signing concept commensurate with prevailing conditions is the primary consideration. EPG 911 (MUTCD Section 1C.02) includes definitions of freeway and expressway.

Guide signs for freeways and expressways are primarily identified by the name of the sign rather than by an assigned sign designation. Guidelines for the design of guide signs for freeways and expressways are provided in the FHWA’s “Standard Highway Signs” publication (see EPG 911 (MUTCD Section 1A.05)).

Standard. The provisions of EPG 903.5 shall apply to any highway that meets the definition of freeway or expressway facilities.

903.5.2 Freeway and Expressway Signing Principles (MUTCD Section 2E.02)

Support. The development of a signing system for freeways and expressways is approached on the premise that the signing is primarily for the benefit and direction of road users who are unfamiliar with the route or area. The signing furnishes road users with clear instructions for orderly progress to their destinations. Sign installations are an integral part of the facility and, as such, are best planned concurrently with the development of highway location and geometric design. For optimal results, plans for signing are analyzed during the earliest stages of preliminary design, and details are correlated as final design is developed. The excessive signing found on many major highways usually is the result of using a multitude of signs that are too small and that are poorly designed and placed to accomplish the intended purpose.

Freeway and expressway signing is to be considered and developed as a planned system of installations. An engineering study is sometimes necessary for proper solution of the problems of many individual locations, but, in addition, consideration of an entire route is necessary.

Guidance. Road users should be guided with consistent signing on the approaches to interchanges, when they drive from one State to another, and when driving through rural or urban areas. Because geographical, geometric, and operating factors regularly create significant differences between urban and rural conditions, the signing should take these conditions into account.

Guide signs on freeways and expressways should serve distinct functions as follows:

A. Give directions to destinations, or to streets or highway routes, at intersections or interchanges;

B. Furnish advance notice of the approach to intersections or interchanges;

C. Direct road users into appropriate lanes in advance of diverging or merging movements;

D. Identify routes and directions on those routes;

E. Show distances to destinations;

F. Indicate access to general motorist services, rest, scenic, and recreational areas; and

G. Provide other information of navigational value to the road user.

903.5.3 Guide Sign Classification (MUTCD Section 2E.03)

Support. Freeway and expressway guide signs are classified and addressed as follows:

A. Interchange signs (see EPG 903.5.21 through 903.5.23 and EPG 903.5.25 through 903.5.42);

B. Interchange Sequence signs (see EPG 903.5.24);

C. Post-Interchange signs (see EPG 903.5.45 and 903.5.46);

D. Community Interchanges Identification signs (see EPG 903.5.50);

E. Next Exits signs (see EPG 903.5.51);

F. Weigh Station signs (see EPG 903.5.52);

G. Route signs and Trailblazer Assemblies (see EPG 903.5.53);

H. General Information signs (see EPG 903.8);

I. Emergency Reference Markers (see EPG 903.8.11);

J. General Service signs (see EPG 903.9);

K. Rest and Scenic Area signs (see EPG 903.9.3);

L. Tourist Information and Welcome Center signs (see EPG 903.9.4);

M. Carpool and Ridesharing signs (see EPG 903.9.6);

N. Specific Service signs (see EPG 903.10); and

O. Recreational and Cultural Interest Area signs (see EPG 903.13).

903.5.4 Characteristics of Urban Signing (MUTCD Section 2E.04)

Support. Urban conditions are characterized not so much by city limits or other arbitrary boundaries as by the following features:

A. Mainline roadways with more than two lanes in each direction;

B. High traffic volumes on the through roadways;

C. High volumes of traffic entering and leaving interchanges;

D. Interchanges that are closely spaced;

E. Roadway and interchange lighting;

F. Three or more interchanges serving the major city;

G. A loop, circumferential, or spur route serving a sizable portion of the urban population; and

H. Visual clutter from roadside development.

Operating conditions and road geometrics on urban freeways and expressways usually make special sign treatments desirable, including:

A. Use of Interchange Sequence signs (see EPG 903.5.24);

B. Use of sign spreading to the maximum extent possible (see EPG 903.5.41);

C. Reduction to a minimum of post-interchange signs (see EPG 903.5.45);

D. Display of advance signs at distances closer to the interchange, with appropriate adjustments in the legend (see EPG 903.5.23);

E. Use of overhead signs on roadway structures and independent sign supports (see EPG 903.5.19);

F. Use of Overhead Arrow-per-Lane guide signs in advance of interchanges with option lanes (see EPG 903.5.39); and

G. Frequent use of street names as the principal message in guide signs.

Lower speeds, which are often characteristic of urban operations, do not justify lower signing standards. Typical traffic patterns are more complex for the road user to negotiate, and large, easy-to-read legends are, therefore, just as necessary as on rural highways.

903.5.5 Characteristics of Rural Signing (MUTCD Section 2E.05)

Support. Rural areas ordinarily have greater distances between interchanges, which permits adequate spacing for the sequences of signs on the approach to and departure from each interchange. However, the absence of traffic in adjoining lanes and on entering or exiting ramps often adds monotony or inattention to rural driving. This increases the importance of signs that call for decisions or actions.

Guidance. Where there are long distances between interchanges and the alignment is relatively unchanging, signs should be positioned for their best effect on road users. The tendency to group all signing in the immediate vicinity of rural interchanges should be avoided by considering the entire route in the development of signing plans. Extra effort should be given to the placement of signs at natural target locations to command the attention of the road user, particularly when the message requires an action by the road user.

903.5.6 Designation of Destinations (MUTCD Section 2E.07)

Standard. The direction of a freeway and the major destinations or control cities along it shall be clearly identified through the use of appropriate destination legends (see EPG 903.4.31). Successive freeway guide signs shall provide continuity in destination names and consistency with available map information. At any decision point, a given destination shall be indicated by way of only one route.

Guidance. Control city legends should be used in the following situations along a freeway:

A. At interchanges between freeways;

B. At separation points of overlapping freeway routes;

C. On directional signs on intersecting routes, to guide traffic entering the freeway;

D. On Pull-Through signs; and

E. On the bottom line of post-interchange distance signs.

In a limited number of locations, the use of the name of a neighboring state or adjacent county might be more relevant than the control city. These identifiers should be used sparingly and only if such a designation is in the best interest of the motorists in that region.

Support. Continuity of destination names is also useful on expressways serving long-distance or intrastate travel.

The determination of major destinations or control cities is important to the quality of service provided by the freeway. Control cities on freeway guide signs are selected by the States and are contained in the “Guidelines for the Selection of Supplemental Guide Signs for Traffic Generators Adjacent to Freeways, 5th Edition/Guide Signs, Part II: Guidelines for Airport Guide Signing/Guide Signs, Part III: List of Control Cities for Use in Guide Signs on Interstate Highways,” published by and available from the American Association of State and Highway Transportation Officials. Central Office Highway Safety and Traffic Division selects and maintains control cities for each route to maintain consistency in signing across the state, see Table 903.5.7.

**Table 903.5.7** Interstate Sign Control Cities
Interstate	Cities
29	Kansas City, St. Joseph, Council Bluffs, Sioux City, Fargo, Grand Forks, Winnipeg
35 NB	Laredo, San Antonio, Austin, Waco, Dallas–Fort Worth, Oklahoma City, Wichita, Kansas City, Ames, Mason City, Albert Lea, St. Paul–Minneapolis, Duluth
35 SB	Duluth, St. Paul–Minneapolis, Albert Lea, Mason City, Ames, Des Moines, Kansas City, Oklahoma City, Dallas–Fort Worth, Waco, Austin, San Antonio, Laredo
44	Wichita Falls, Lawton, Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Joplin, Springfield, Rolla, St. Louis
49	Joplin, Kansas City
55	New Orleans, Hammond, McComb, Jackson, Grenada, Memphis, Blytheville, Sikeston, Cape Girardeau, St. Louis, Chicago
57 NB	Sikeston, Charleston, Cairo, Chicago
57 SB	Chicago, Cairo, Charleston, Sikeston, Memphis
64 EB	St. Louis, Louisville, Lexington, Ashland, Huntington, Charleston, Beckley, Lewisburg, Lexington, Staunton, Richmond, Norfolk, Chesapeake
64 WB	Richmond, Staunton, Lexington, Lewisburg, Beckley, Charleston, Huntington, Ashland, Lexington, Louisville, St. Louis, Wentzville
70 EB	I-15, Grand Junction, Denver, Limon, Hays, Salina, Topeka, Kansas City, Columbia, Wentzville, St. Louis, Indianapolis, Columbus, Wheeling, Washington (PA), New Stanton, Breezewood, Hancock, Hagerstown, Washington D.C., Baltimore
70 WB	Baltimore, Washington D.C., Frederick, Hagerstown, Breezewood, Wheeling, Columbus, Indianapolis, St. Louis, Wentzville, Columbia, Kansas City, Topeka, Salina, Hays, Limon, Denver, Grand Junction, I-15

903.5.7 General (MUTCD Section 2E.08)

Support. Effective signs are legible to road users approaching them, and are readable and comprehensible in the viewing time provided to permit proper responses. Desired design characteristics include: (a) long visibility distances; (b) large lettering, symbols, and arrows; and (c) short legends.

903.5.8 Color of Guide Signs (MUTCD Section 2E.09)

Standard. Guide signs on freeways and expressways, except as otherwise provided in the EPG, shall have white letters, symbols, arrows, and borders on a green background.

In the case of “EXIT ONLY” sign panels or other legends that require extra emphasis, the legend shall be black on fluorescent-yellow background.

Support. Color requirements for route signs and trailblazers; for signs with blank-out or changeable messages; for signs for services, rest areas, park and recreational areas; and for certain miscellaneous signs are provided in the individual Sections dealing with the particular sign or sign group.

903.5.9 Retroreflection or Illumination (MUTCD Section 2E.10)

Standard. Letters, numerals, symbols, arrows, and borders of all guide signs shall be retroreflective. The background of all guide signs that are not independently illuminated shall be retroreflective.

Support. Where there is no serious interference from extraneous light sources, retroreflective post-mounted signs usually provide adequate nighttime visibility.

On freeways and expressways where much driving at night is done with low-beam headlights, the amount of headlight illumination incident to an overhead sign display is relatively small.

Option. Overhead sign lighting may be installed based on engineering judgement.

Guidance. Overhead sign lighting should be limited to signs located in tunnels or under structures.

903.5.10 Interchange Classification (MUTCD Section 2E.11)

Support. For signing purposes, MoDOT does not classify interchanges as major, intermediate, or minor with regard to signage.

903.5.11 Size of Signs and Letters (MUTCD Section 2E.12)

Standard. Except as provided in EPG 903.1.7, the sizes of freeway and expressway guide signs that have standardized designs shall be as shown in Table 903.5.11.1.

Support. EPG 903.1.7 contains information regarding the applicability of the various columns in Table 903.5.11.1.

Option. Signs larger than those shown in Table 903.5.11.1 may be used (see EPG 903.1.7).

Standard. The nominal loop height of the lower-case letters shall be ¾ of the height of the initial upper-case letter (see the second Standard paragraph of EPG 903.4.5 for additional information on the specification of letter heights). Other word legends such as cardinal directions, action messages, and special characters shall be composed of all upper-case letters with a minimum letter height of 8 inches. Interline and edge spacing shall be as provided in EPG 903.5.12.

For all freeway and expressway signs that do not have a standardized design, the message dimensions shall be determined first, and the outside sign dimensions secondarily. Minimum numeral and letter sizes for expressway guide signs shall be as shown in Table 903.5.11.2. Minimum numeral and letter sizes for freeway guide signs shall be as shown in Table 903.5.11.3.

All names of places, streets, and highways on freeway and expressway guide signs shall be composed of lower-case letters with initial upper-case letters. The letters and the numerals used shall be FHWA Standard Alphabet Series E (modified) as provided in the FHWA’s “Standard Highway Signs” publication (see EPG 911 (Section 1A.05)).

Lettering size on freeway and expressway signs shall be the same for both rural and urban conditions.

Support. Sign size is determined primarily in terms of the length of the message and the size of the lettering necessary for proper legibility. Letter style and height, and arrow design have been standardized for freeway and expressway signs to assure uniform and effective application.

Designs for upper-case and lower-case FHWA Standard Alphabets, together with tables of recommended letter spacing, are shown in the FHWA’s “Standard Highway Signs” publication (see EPG 911 (MUTCD Section 1A.05)).

**Table 903.5.11.1** Freeway or Expressway Guide Sign and Plaque Sizes
Sign or Plaque	Sign Designation	EPG Article	Conventional Road			Freeway/Expressway
Sign or Plaque	Sign Designation	EPG Article	Standard	Oversized	Special	(in. x in.)
Interchange Advance Guide (1 destination)	E1-1	903.5.23	-	-	-	Varies
Interchange Advance Guide (2 destinations)	E1-2	903.5.23	-	-	-	Varies
Interchange Advance Guide (3 destinations)	E1-3	903.5.23	-	-	-	Varies
Exit Number (plaque)
1-, 2-Digit Exit Number	E1-5P	903.5.23	-	-	-	Varies X 30
3-Digit Exit Number	E1-5aP	903.5.23	-	-	-	Varies X 30
1-, 2-Digit Exit Number (with single-letter suffix)	E1-5bP	903.5.23	-	-	-	Varies X 30
3-Digit Exit Number (with single-letter suffix)	E1-5cP	903.5.23	-	-	-	Varies X 30
1-, 2-Digit Exit Number (with dual-letter suffix)	E1-5dP	903.5.23	-	-	-	Varies X 30
3-Digit Exit Number (with dual-letter suffix)	E1-5eP	903.5.23	-	-	-	Varies X 30
Left Exit Number (plaque)
1-, 2-Digit Exit Number	E1-5fP	903.5.23	-	-	-	Varies X 30
3-Digit Exit Number	E1-5gP	903.5.23	-	-	-	Varies X 30
1-, 2-Digit Exit Number (with single-letter suffix)	E1-5hP	903.5.23	-	-	-	Varies X 30
3-Digit Exit Number (with single-letter suffix)	E1-5iP	903.5.23	-	-	-	Varies X 30
1-, 2-Digit Exit Number (with dual-letter suffix)	E1-5jP	903.5.23	-	-	-	Varies X 30
3-Digit Exit Number (with dual-letter suffix)	E1-5kP	903.5.23	-	-	-	Varies X 30
Left (plaque)	E1-5mP	903.5.23	-	-	-	72 X 30
Next Exit (plaque)	E2-1P, E2-1aP	903.5.44	-	-	-	Varies X 36
Supplemental	E3-1, E3-2	903.5.49	-	-	-	Varies
Exit Gore	E5-1	903.5.26	-	-	-	72 X 60
Exit Gore (with exit number)	E5-1a	903.5.26	-	-	-	Varies X 72
1-, 2-Digit Exit Number	E5-1a	903.5.26	-	-	-	Varies X 72
3-Digit Exit Number	E5-1a	903.5.26	-	-	-	Varies
3-Digit Exit Number (with single-letter suffix)	E5-1a	903.5.26	-	-	-	Varies
3-Digit Exit Number (with dual-letter suffix)	E5-1a	903.5.26	-	-	-	Varies
Pull-Through	E6-1 - E6-2a	903.5.27	-	-	-	Varies
Pull-Through (Destination)	E6-1a	903.5.27	-	-	-	Varies
Pull Through (Down Arrows)	E6-2	903.5.27	-	-	-	Varies
Pull Through (Destination, Down Arrows)	E6-2a	903.5.27	-	-	-	Varies
Post-Interchange Distance (1 line)	E7-1	903.5.46	-	-	-	Varies X 24
Post-Interchange Distance (2 line)	E7-2	903.5.46	-	-	-	Varies X 48
Post-Interchange Distance (3 line)	E7-3	903.5.46	-	-	-	Varies X 60
Interchange Sequence	E9-1, E9-2	903.5.24	-	-	-	Varies
Next Exits	E9-3, E9-3a	903.5.51	-	-	-	Varies
Community Interchanges	E9-4, E9-5	903.5.50	-	-	-	Varies
Exit Only (with arrow)	E11-1, 1d	903.5.28	-	-	-	Varies
Exit	E11-1a	903.5.28	-	-	-	Varies
Only	E11-1b	903.5.28	-	-	-	Varies
Exit Only	E11-1c	903.5.28	-	-	-	Varies
Exit Only (with two arrows)	E11-1e, 1f	903.5.28	-	-	-	Varies
Exit Direction Advisory Speed (panel)	E13-2	903.5.25				162 X 64
Interstate Route (1, 2 digits)	M1-1	903.5.53	-	-	-	24 X 24
Interstate Route (3 digits)	M1-1	903.5.53	-	-	-	30 X 24
Interstate Loop (1, 2 digits)	M1-2	903.5.53	-	-	-	24 X 24
Interstate Loop (3 digits)	M1-2	903.5.53	-	-	-	30 X 24
U.S. Route (1, 2 digits)	M1-4	903.5.53	-	-	-	24 X 24
U.S. Route (3 digits)	M1-4	903.5.53	-	-	-	30 X 24
State Route (1 or 2 digits)	M1-5	903.4.11	-	-	-	24 X 24
State Route (3 digits)	M1-5	903.4.11	-	-	-	30 X 24
State Route (Letter)	M1-5a	903.4.11	-	-	-	Varies X 24
Junction (plaque)	M2-1P	903.4.13	-	-	-	21 X 15
North (plaque)	M3-1P	903.4.14	-	-	-	24 X 12
East (plaque)	M3-2P	903.4.14	-	-	-	24 X 12
South (plaque)	M3-3P	903.4.14	-	-	-	24 X 12
West (plaque)	M3-4P	903.4.14	-	-	-	24 X 12
Alternate (plaque)	M4-1P	903.4.16	-	-	-	24 X 12
Spur (plaque)	M4-1bP	903.4.17	-	-	-	24 X 12
Business (plaque)	M4-3P	903.4.18	-	-	-	24 X 12
To (plaque)	M4-5P	903.4.19	-	-	-	24 X 12
Advance Turn Arrow (90° Left/Right)	M5-1P	903.4.22	-	-	-	21 X 15
Advance Turn Arrow (45° Left/Right)	M5-2P	903.4.22	-	-	-	21 X 15
Advance Turn Arrow (Curved Stem)	M5-3P	903.4.22	-	-	-	21 X 15
Lane Designation (Left)	M5-4P	903.4.23	-	-	-	24 X 18
Lane Designation (Center)	M5-5P	903.4.23	-	-	-	24 X 18
Lane Designation (Right)	M5-6P	903.4.23	-	-	-	24 X 18
Directional Arrow (Left/Right)	M6-1P	903.4.24	-	-	-	21 X 15
Directional Arrow (45° Left/Right)	M6-2P	903.4.24	-	-	-	21 X 15
Directional Arrow (Straight)	M6-3P	903.4.24	-	-	-	21 X 15
Directional Arrow (Two-Way)	M6-4P	903.4.24	-	-	-	21 X 15
Directional Arrow (Two-Way 45° Left/Right)	M6-5P	903.4.24	-	-	-	21 X 15
Directional Arrow (Up & Left/Right)	M6-6P	903.4.24	-	-	-	21 X 15
Directional Arrow (Up & 45° Left/Right)	M6-7P	903.4.24	-	-	-	21 X 15
Destination (1 line)	D1-1	903.4.32	-	-	-	Varies
Destination (2 lines)	D1-2	903.4.32	-	-	-	Varies
Destination (3 lines)	D1-3	903.4.32	-	-	-	Varies
Destination and Distance (1 line)	D1-1a	903.4.32	-	-	-	Varies
Destination and Distance (2 lines)	D1-2a	903.4.32	-	-	-	Varies
Destination and Distance (3 lines)	D1-3a	903.4.32	-	-	-	Varies
Circular Intersection Destination (1 line)	D1-1d	903.4.35	-	-	-	Varies
Circular Intersection Departure Guide	D1-1e	903.4.35	-	-	-	Varies
Circular Intersection Destination (2 lines)	D1-2d	903.4.35	-	-	-	Varies
Circular Intersection Destination (3 lines)	D1-3d	903.4.35	-	-	-	Varies
Distance (1 line)	D2-1	903.4.38	-	-	-	Varies
Distance (2 lines)	D2-2	903.4.38	-	-	-	Varies
Distance (3 lines)	D2-3	903.4.38	-	-	-	Varies
Street Name (1 line)	D3-1	903.4.40	-	-	-	Varies
Street Name (2 lines)	D3-1b	903.4.40	-	-	-	Varies
Advance Street Name	D3-2	903.4.41	-	-	-	Varies
Parking Area	D4-1	903.4.42	-	-	-	30 X 24
Commuter	D4-1P	903.4.42	-	-	-	30 X 6
Commuter Parking	D4-1a	903.4.42	-	-	-	60 X 36
Advance Weigh Station Distance	D8-1	903.4.45	-	-	-	108 X 84
Weigh Station Advance Direction	D8-2	903.4.45	-	-	-	120 X 72
Weigh Station Entrance Direction	D8-3	903.4.45	-	-	-	84 X 72
Combination Lane Use/Destination	D15-1	903.4.34	-	-	-	Varies X 96
Advance Passing Lane	D17-4	903.4.47	-	-	-	Varies

Table 903.5.11.2 Minimum Letter and Numeral Sizes for Expressway Guide Signs

Type of Sign	Minimum Size	Overhead
A. Advance Guide, Exit Direction, and Overhead Guide Signs
Exit Number Plaques
Words	10	10
Numerals & Letters	15	15
Interstate Route Signs
Numerals	14*	14*
1- or 2-Digit Shields	36 X 36	36 X 36
3-Digit Shields	45 X 36	45 X 36
U.S. or State Route Signs
Numerals	18	18
1- or 2-Digit Shields	36 X 36	36 X 36
3-Digit Shields	45 X 36	45 X 36
U.S. or State Route Text Identification (Example: US 56)
Numerals & Letters	18	15
Cardinal Directions
First Letters	18	15
Rest of Word	15	12
Auxiliary and Alternative Route Legends (Examples: JCT, TO, ALT, BUSNIESS)
Words	15	12
Names of Destinations
Upper-Case Letters	20	16
Lower-Case Letters	15	12
Distance Numbers	18	15
Distance Fraction Numerals	12	10
Distance Words	10	10
B. Gore Signs
Words	10	-
Numerals & Letters	12	-

Type of Sign	Minimum Size
C. Pull-Through Signs
Destinations - Upper-Case Letters	13.33
Destinations - Lower-Case Letters	10
Route Signs
Numerals	14*
1- 2-Digit Shields	36 X 36
3-Digit Shields	45 X 45
Cardinal Directions - First Letters	12
Cardinal Directions - Rest of Word	10
D. Supplemental Guide Signs
Exit Number - Words	8
Exit Number - Numerals and Letters	12
Place Names - Upper-Case Letters	10.67
Place Names - Lower-Case Letters	8
Action Messages	8
Route Signs
Numerals	9*
1- 2-Digit Shields	24 X 24
3-Digit Shields	30 X 24

Type of Sign	Minimum Size
E. Interchange Sequence or Community Interchanges Identification Signs
Words - Upper-Case Letters	10.67
Words - Lower-Case Letters	8
Numerals	10.67
Fraction Numerals	8
Route Signs
Numerals	9*
1- 2-Digit Shields	24 X 24
3-Digit Shields	30 X 24
F. Next XX Exits Sign
Place Names - Upper-Case Letters	10.67
Place Names - Lower-Case Letters	8
Next XX EXITS - Words	8
NEXT XX EXITS - Number	12
G. Distance Signs
Words - Upper-Case Letters	8
Words - Lower-Case Letters	6
Numerals	8
Route Signs
Numerals	6*
1- 2-Digit Shields	18 X 18
3-Digit Shields	22.5 X 18
H. General Service Signs (see EPG 903.9)
Exit Number - Words	8
Exit Number - Numerals and Letters	12
Services	8
I. Rest Area, Scenic Area, And Roadside Area Signs (see EPG 903.9)
Words	10
Distance Numerals	12
Distance Fraction Numerals	8
Distance Words	8
Action Message Words	10
J. Reference Location Signs (see EPG 903.8)
Words	4
Numerals	10
K. Boundary and Orientation Signs (see EPG 903.8)
Words - Upper-Case Letters	8
Words - Lower-Case Letters	6
L. Next Exit and Next Services Signs
Words and Numerals	8
M. Exit Only Signs
Words	12
N. Overhead Arrow-per-Lane Signs
See Table 903.5.11.3

* Minimum size listed for 3-digit shields. Larger numeral sizes used for 1-digit, some 2-digit, and some 3-digit shields. See the Standard Highways Signs publication for more information on Route Sign numeral heights and Standard Alphabet series. Note: Sizes are shown in inches and where applicable are shown as width x height

Guidance. Freeway lettering sizes (see Table 903.5.11.3) should be used when expressway geometric design is comparable to freeway standards.

Other sign letter size requirements not specifically identified elsewhere in the EPG should be guided by these specifications. Abbreviations should be kept to a minimum, except as provided in EPG 903.5.15.

Support. A sign mounted over a particular roadway lane to which it applies might have to be limited in horizontal dimension to the width of the lane, so that another sign can be placed over an adjacent lane. The necessity to maintain proper vertical clearance might also place a further limitation on the size of the overhead sign and the legend that can be accommodated.

Overhead signs are subject to truss capacity and spacing limitations. Using 20-inch legends increases panel width and can prevent the placement of multiple lane-specific signs within available structure limits.

Table 903.5.11.3 Minimum Letter and Numeral Sizes for Freeway Guide Signs

Type of Sign	Minimum Size	Overhead*
A. Advance Guide, Exit Direction, and Overhead Guide Signs
Exit Number Plaques
Words	10	10
Numerals & Letters	15	15
Interstate Route Signs
Numerals	14*	14*
1- or 2-Digit Shields	36 X 36	36 X 36
3-Digit Shields	45 X 36	45 X 36
U.S. or State Route Signs
Numerals	18	18
1- or 2-Digit Shields	36 X 36	36 X 36
3-Digit Shields	45 X 36	45 X 36
U.S. or State Route Text Identification (Example: US 56)
Numerals & Letters	18	15
Cardinal Directions
First Letters	18	15
Rest of Word	15	12
Auxiliary and Alternative Route Legends (Examples: JCT, TO, ALT, BUSNIESS)
Words	15	12
Names of Destinations
Upper-Case Letters	20	16
Lower-Case Letters	15	12
Distance Numbers	18	15
Distance Fraction Numerals	12	10
Distance Words	12	10
Action Message Words	12	10
B. Gore Signs
Words	12	-
Numerals & Letters	18	-

Type of Sign	Minimum Size
C. Pull-Through Signs
Destinations - Upper-Case Letters	16
Destinations - Lower-Case Letters	12
Route Signs
Numerals	14*
1- 2-Digit Shields	36 X 36
3-Digit Shields	45 X 36
Cardinal Directions - First Letters	15
Cardinal Directions - Rest of Word	12
D. Supplemental Guide Signs
Exit Number - Words	10
Exit Number - Numerals and Letters	15
Place Names - Upper-Case Letters	13.33
Place Names - Lower-Case Letters	10
Action Messages	8
Route Signs
Numerals	9*
1- 2-Digit Shields	24 X 24
3-Digit Shields	30 X 24
E. Interchange Sequence or Community Interchanges Identification Signs
Words - Upper-Case Letters	13.33
Words - Lower-Case Letters	10
Numerals	13.33
Fraction Numerals	10
Route Signs
Numerals	9*
1- 2-Digit Shields	24 X 24
3-Digit Shields	30 X 24
F. Next XX Exits Sign
Place Names - Upper-Case Letters	13.33
Place Names - Lower-Case Letters	10
Next XX EXITS - Words	10
NEXT XX EXITS - Number	15

Type of Sign	Minimum Size
G. Distance Signs
Words - Upper-Case Letters	8
Words - Lower-Case Letters	6
Numerals	8
Route Signs
Numerals	6*
1- 2-Digit Shields	18 X 18
3-Digit Shields	22.5 X 18
H. General Service Signs (see EPG 903.9)
Exit Number - Words	10
Exit Number - Numerals and Letters	15
Services	10
I. Rest Area, Scenic Area, And Roadside Area Signs (see EPG 903.9)
Words	12
Distance Numerals	15
Distance Fraction Numerals	10
Distance Words	10
Action Message Words	12
J. Reference Location Signs (see EPG 903.8)
Words	4
Numerals	10
K. Boundary and Orientation Signs (see EPG 903.8)
Words - Upper-Case Letters	8
Words - Lower-Case Letters	6
L. Next Exit and Next Services Signs
Words and Numerals	8
M. Exit Only Signs
Words	12
N. Overhead Arrow-per-Lane Signs**
Arrowhead (Type D Directional Arrow)	21
Arrow Shaft Width	7.75
Arrow Height
Through	40
Left Only	30
Right Only	30
Optional-Diverge (Through with Left or Right)	40
Optional-Split (Left and Right)	33.33
Vertical Separator Width	2
Vertical Space between Vertical Separator and Top of Nearest Arrow	5.0
Horizontal Space between Vertical Separator and Top of Nearest Through Arrow	9
Horizontal Space between Arrow Shaft and EXIT and ONLY Panels	12
EXIT and ONLY Panels	54 X 18

* Minimum size listed for 3-digit shields. Larger numeral sizes used for 1-digit, some 2-digit, and some 3-digit shields. See the Standard Highways Signs publication for more information on Route Sign numeral heights and Standard Alphabet series. ** Overhead Arrow-per-Lane sign example layouts and design elements sizing are provided in the Standard Highway Sign publication. Only 16-inch legends are used on Overhead Arrow-per-Lane signs. Note: Sizes are shown in inches and where applicable are shown as width x height.

903.5.12 lnterline and Edge Spacing (MUTCD Section 2E.13)

Guidance. Horizontal spacing between words should be 1.5 times the lower-case letter height. For legends with only upper-case letters, the spacing should be 1.5 times the upper-case letter height.

Horizontal and vertical spacing between the overall legend and the outside sign edge should be approximately equal to the largest upper-case letter height that appears on the sign. Odd amounts of space should be placed on the two outside spaces between the sign edge and the extreme limit of the legend.

For upper-case letters that are 13.33 in. and taller, spacing around arrows and shields should be a minimum of 12 in. to words or any other arrow or shield.

Vertical spacing between lines is equal to the larger of the lower-case letter height of the two lines. If all letters are upper-case, the spacing equals 3/4 of the larger upper-case letter height of the two lines.

Support. Odd spacing widths may occur due to rounding the overall sign width and height to even 12 in. increments. For other letter heights spacing around arrows and shields may be narrowed depending on the amount of legend, letter sizes and sign appearance.

903.5.13 Sign Borders (MUTCD Section 2E.14)

Guidance. For guide signs larger than 120 x 72 inches, the border should have a width of 2 inches. For smaller guide signs, a border width of 1.25 inches should be used. On unusually large signs with oversized letter heights, route shields, or other legend elements, the border should be 2.5 inches wide and should not exceed 3 inches in width. In all cases, the width of the border should not exceed the stroke width of the lettering of the principal legend on the sign.

Corner radii of sign borders should be approximately ⅛ of the minimum sign dimension on guide signs, except that the radii should not exceed 12 inches on any sign.

Support. The FHWA’s “Standard Highway Signs” publication (see EPG 911 (MUTCD Section 1A.05)) contains detailed information on border widths and corner radii for ranges of sign sizes.

Option. The sign material in the area outside of the corner radius may be trimmed.

903.5.14 Amount of Legend on Guide Signs (MUTCD Section 2E.15)

Guidance. No more than two destination names or street names should be displayed on any Interchange Advance Guide sign or Exit Direction sign. A city name and street name on the same sign should be avoided. Where two or three signs are placed on the same supports, destinations or street names should be limited to one per sign, or to a total of three in the display. Sign legends should not exceed three lines of copy, exclusive of the exit number and action or distance information.

For urban interchanges of freeways and conventional routes the address block number of the intersecting street should not be displayed unless multiple interchanges between the same two roadways exist.

For isolated rural interchanges, each interchange should be identified by either the name of its community or by the nearest control communities on the intersecting route. If the interchange is the junction of a freeway with a state-maintained route outside of any community, it is possible to use only the intersecting route shields as the identifier.

Option. The public often reference MoDOT routes by street name instead of the official MoDOT route identification number or letter. If this is the case, the street name may be used in conjunction with the MoDOT route shield. The route shield and, if required, the cardinal direction appear on the first line of copy, and the second line indicates the street name. All street names include the appropriate designation such as street (St), boulevard (Blvd), road (Rd), avenue (Ave), or drive (Dr).

Support. Where only one interchange serves a community, the intersecting street name is generally superfluous to the city name on the Interchange Advance guide and Exit Direction signs. Where a community is served by multiple interchanges, the city name is typically displayed on either a Community Interchanges Identification sign (see EPG 903.5.50) or a Next Exits sign (see EPG 903.5.51). Each interchange is then identified by its intersecting roadway name on the Interchange Advance guide and Exit Direction signs rather than by the city name.

Typically, interchanges between freeways and conventional routes within an urban area identify the exit by the intersecting street on the guide signing rather than using control points, control cities, or other community names.

903.5.14.1 Street Names on Guide Signs

Guidance. Using a route shield, a control city and a route name on the same sign should be avoided whenever possible. Some situations require a route shield, a control city and a street name, with the street name being a separate roadway or exit than the MoDOT route. For this condition, the order should be route shield, control city (or major destination) and then the street name as the third line of copy, regardless of roadway geometrics.

903.5.15 Abbreviations (MUTCD Section 2E.16)

Standard. The use of abbreviations on freeway and expressway guide signs shall comply with the provisions of EPG 903.4.7.

903.5.16 Symbols (MUTCD Section 2E.17)

Support. Symbols are not normally displayed on freeway and expressway guide signs. One exception is the PARK - RIDE Supplemental guide sign (see EPG 903.5.49), which displays the Carpool symbol. In some cases, General Information symbols (see EPG 903.8) might be included in the legend of a guide sign to shorten an unusually lengthy legend on the sign.

Guidance. When a General Information symbol is incorporated into the legend of a guide sign, all components of the legend should be balanced in size and arrangement for maximum legibility. The General Information (I series) sign, rather than the symbol alone, should be placed as a sign panel within the guide sign so that adequate recognition of the symbol is provided by the border. The General Information sign panel should be positioned to the left of the legend to which it applies. The size of the General Information sign panel should be similar in size to that specified for a route shield for the type of guide sign on which it is displayed.

903.5.17 Arrows for Interchange Guide Signs (MUTCD Section 2E.18)

Standard. Arrows used on interchange guide signs shall be of the types shown in Figure 903.4.8 and shall comply with the provisions of this Article and EPG 903.4.8.

Except on Overhead Arrow-per-Lane guide signs (see EPG 903.5.39) and on Exit Direction signs for lane drops (see EPG 903.5.28), and except as provided in the second Standard paragraph below, directional arrows on all overhead and post-mounted Exit Direction signs shall point diagonally upward at a 45-degree angle. Directional arrows on overhead Exit Direction signs shall be located on the side of the sign consistent with the direction of the exiting movement. Directional arrows on post-mounted Exit Direction signs shall be located at the bottom portion of the sign and centered under the legend.

Option. On overhead Exit Direction signs that are located fully over the tapered portion of the exit ramp at the theoretical gore, and where a directional arrow to the side of the legend farthest from the roadway might create an unusually wide sign that limits the road user’s view of the arrow, the directional arrow may be placed at the bottom portion of the sign, centered under the legend.

Standard. Directional arrows on guide signs for multi-lane exits shall be positioned below the legend over the approximate center of each lane to which the arrow applies (see Figure 903.5.39.4).

Down arrows shall only be used on overhead signs to indicate a lane to be followed and shall be positioned over the approximate center of each lane pointing vertically downward toward the approximate center of that lane. Down arrows shall be used only on overhead guide signs that restrict the use of specific lanes to traffic bound for the destination(s) and/or route(s) indicated by these arrows. Down arrows shall not be used unless an arrow can be located over and pointed to the approximate center of each lane that can be used to reach the destination displayed on the sign.

If down arrows are used, having more than one down arrow pointing to the same lane on a single overhead sign (or on multiple signs on the same overhead sign structure) shall not be permitted.

Support. Directional and down arrows for use on guide signs are shown in Figure 903.4.8 Detailed drawings and standardized sizes based on ranges of letter heights for these arrows are provided in the FHWA’s “Standard Highway Signs” publication (see Category:911_General_(MUTCD_Part_1)#Relation_to_Other_Publications_(MUTCD_Section_1A.05))). Information on the dimensions for arrows used in Overhead Arrow-per-Lane signing is provided in the FHWA’s “Standard Highway Signs” publication (see EPG 911 (MUTCD Section 1A.05)).

903.5.18 Cardinal Directions

Standard. Cardinal directions are the words NORTH, SOUTH, EAST and WEST. Cardinal directions shall be used on all guide signs when the ramp being signed does not provide access to both directions of travel on the intersecting route or cross street. In the case where both directions of travel on the cross-street are accessed directly by the same ramp, the cardinal directions for the intersecting route or cross street shall not be used. This does not apply if the words “north”, “south”, “east” or “west” are a part of the official name of the cross street.

Cardinal directions shall be upper case with the first letter being the next letter size taller than the others.

Guidance. For cardinal directions, which modify route shields, the cardinal direction should be placed on the left side of the route shield for left exits and on the right side of the shield for right exits. The cardinal direction is not to appear on top of the shield, and the top of the first letter of the direction should vertically align with the top of the route shield. Similar placement should be used for guide signs on the intersecting route guiding motorists where to turn for entry to an expressway or freeway. Cardinal directions are not to be used next to shields for business routes.

For the purpose of sign design, a shield/cardinal direction combination should be considered one "unit". For guide signs at the exit gore with a Type A arrow and destination line of copy, this "unit" should be centered over the destination line, not centered on the width of the sign. If the "unit" is wider than the destination, the destination should be centered under the "unit". This is also true for shields with no cardinal direction. See the example in the standard plans.

No cardinal direction should be used for exits that access both directions of a route. The directions should be shown near the ramp terminal on a supplemental guide or route marker assembly. No cardinal direction is required on advance guide signs for routes that begin (or end) at an interchange, or for routes which are continued through an interchange ramp. For this condition, a control city (see Table 903.5.7) or major destination should accompany a route shield.

Since lettered routes are not designated as being strictly North/South or East/West, the shield does not normally carry a cardinal direction with it. An exception is with a lettered route that has two exits, which would occur at a cloverleaf interchange. The cardinal direction used in this case should be the direction physically associated with the route.

Multiple shields for overlapping roadways should be arranged in the following order of importance: interstate, interstate business, U.S. Routes, U.S. business, Missouri numbered and Missouri lettered. Multiple shields for the same roadway type (i.e. I-35 and I-70, or U.S. 34 and U.S. 67) should be arranged in numerical order starting with the lowest numbered route. For lettered routes, the shields should be arranged in alphabetical order.

When several routes end at a ramp terminal, all guide sign shields should be arranged as the traveler views the routes at the ramp terminal, from left to right. Cardinal directions are not required.

Cardinal directions for two shields that designate the same roadway and have the same direction should be placed on the right or left hand side of the two shields. Only one direction is required.

Cardinal directions for two and three shields that designate the same roadway, but have different directions, should be vertically stacked with the appropriate cardinal direction next to each shield or shields. The shields should be listed in the order previously noted. Also, multiple control cities are ordered respectively with shield order.

For roads not on the state system, cardinal directions should follow the roadway name and appear on a line of copy by itself. A direction should be indicated only if the exit accesses one direction of the side road. Directions should be indicated only for a roadway with multiple exits from a state route.

Support. An example of proper cardinal direction letter size is 15 in./12 in. upper case for a sign with a 16 in./12 in. destination/name.

An example of how to sign without the use of a cardinal direction for an interchange: Route 350 begins at the interchange and Route 50 follows the interchange off ramp. The advance guide sign for westbound Route I-470 shows the Route 50 shield first since this exit is first, and the first destination shown is for Route 50. The exit guide for Route 50 would show no cardinal direction and would only have the Route 50 shield, destination and appropriate arrow. The guide signs for Route 350 are similar to the Route 50 guide signs. Once the driver is on the route, route marker assemblies confirm the route with a cardinal direction.

An example of how to sign without the use of a cardinal direction for multiple shields, at a directional ramp split: to the left is Route U and to the right are overlapping Routes A and U.S. Route 47. On the first line of copy, the guide sign shows the Route U shield first, then the U.S. Route 47 shield next to the Route A shield. This impresses upon the motorists to turn left for Route U. The space between the U.S. Route 47 and the Route A shields may be narrowed from the standard 12 in. to as low as 6 in. to give the impression of unity. The space between the Route U shield and the U.S. Route 47 shield is a minimum of 24 in. to give the impression of separation.

An example of how to use a cardinal direction for multiple shields: an exit to the right for overlapping Routes I-64 and Route 40 is ordered as I-64, Route 40, with one cardinal direction "EAST" placed to the right of the Route 40 shield.

903.5.19 Overhead Sign Installations (MUTCD Section 2E.19)

Support. Specifications for the design and construction of structural supports for signs have been standardized by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). Overcrossing structures can often serve for the support of overhead signs, and might in some cases be the only practical location that will provide adequate viewing distance. Use of these structures as sign supports will eliminate the need for additional sign supports along the roadside. Conditions that might warrant the installation of overhead signs are given in EPG 903.1.14 and throughout EPG 903.5. Vertical clearance of overhead signs is discussed in EPG 903.1.15.

903.5.20 Lateral Offset (MUTCD Section 2E.20)

Standard. Except where shielded by a rigid traffic barrier, the minimum lateral offset outside the usable roadway shoulder for post-mounted freeway and expressway signs or for overhead sign supports, either to the right-hand or left-hand side of the roadway, shall be 6 feet. This minimum clearance shall also apply outside of a curb. All signs, regardless of location along right-of-way shall be mounted on crashworthy supports (see definition in EPG 911 (MUTCD Section 1C.02)).

Guidance. Where practicable, a sign should not be less than 12 feet from the edge of the nearest traffic lane.

Where an expressway median is 12 feet or less in width, consideration should be given to spanning both roadways without a center support.

Standard. Overhead sign supports shall have a barrier or crash cushion to shield them if they are within the right-of-way.

Butterfly-type sign supports and other overhead non-crashworthy sign supports shall not be installed in gores or other unshielded locations within the clear zone.

Option. Lesser clearances, but not generally less than 6 feet, may be used on connecting roadways or ramps at interchanges.

903.5.21 Interchange Guide Signs (MUTCD Section 2E.21)

Standard. The signs at interchanges and on their approaches shall include Advance Interchange guide signs and Exit Direction signs. Consistent destination messages shall be displayed on these signs.

Guidance. New destination information should not be introduced into the major sign sequence for one interchange, nor should destination information be dropped.

Guide signs placed in advance of an interchange deceleration lane should be spaced at least 800 feet apart.

Use of Supplemental guide signing should be minimized as provided in EPG 903.5.49.

Support. Figure 903.5.21 shows a typical sequence of interchange guide signs.

In some instances the interchange that provides the most direct or preferred access to a destination might be different in opposing directions of travel due to circumstances such as the configuration of the crossroads, or the fact that an interchange is a partial interchange.

Guidance. For each direction of travel, guide signing to a destination should be via the exit with the most direct or preferred access, even when this results in a destination being served by different interchanges for opposing directions of travel.

903.5.22 Interchange Exit Numbering (MUTCD Section 2E.22)

Standard. Interchange exit numbering shall use the reference location sign exit numbering method. The consecutive exit numbering method shall not be used. The exit numbers shall correspond to the posted Reference Location or Enhanced Reference Location signs.

Support. Reference location sign exit numbering assists road users in determining their destination distances and travel mileage, assists road users in reporting their location in the event of an incident or breakdown, assists responders in responding to incidents, and assists highway agencies because the exit numbering sequence does not have to be changed if new interchanges are added to a route.

Interchange exit numbering provides valuable orientation for the road user on a freeway. The feasibility of numbering interchanges or exits on an expressway will depend largely on the extent to which grade separations are provided.

Standard. Interchange exit numbering shall be used in signing each freeway interchange exit departure point. Exits are numbered for the interstate system only and coincide with mileposts. Interchange exit numbers shall be displayed with each Interchange Advance Guide sign, Exit Direction sign, and Exit Gore sign. The exit number shall be displayed on a separate plaque on top of the Interchange Advance Guide or Exit Direction sign. The Exit Number (E1-5P series) plaque (see Figure 903.5.23) shall include the word EXIT(S) and the appropriate exit number(s) in a single-line format.

Since exits are numbered on the interstate system, the terms NEXT LEFT, NEXT RIGHT, or SECOND LEFT, SECOND RIGHT and NEXT EXIT shall not be used, with the exception of supplemental signs. The exit number shall always be referred to on the exit number panel that is placed above the main guide sign. For interstate guide signs, the term EXIT XX MILES shall not be used.

If a guide sign exit number panel refers to two exits, the exit number letters shall appear in the same order as the driver approaches them.

Suffix letters shall only be used to supplement exit numbers where there is more than one exit associated with the reference mile points of the freeway. Suffix letters shall not be used for an exit ramp for the purpose of identifying a downstream ramp split providing access to multiple highways or different directions on the same highway. The suffix letter shall also be included on the Exit Number plaque and shall be separated from the exit number by a space having a width of between ½ and ¾ of the height of the suffix letter. The suffix letters assigned shall be in ascending alphabetical order starting with the letter A for ramps in the direction of travel with increasing exit numbers, and in descending alphabetical order ending in the letter A in the opposite direction of travel. Exit numbers shall not include the cardinal direction initials corresponding to the directions of the cross route. The minimum numeral and letter sizes shall be as given in Tables 903.5.11.2 and 903.5.11.3.

Where suffix letters are used for exit numbering, an exit of the same number without a suffix letter shall not be used on the same route in the same direction. For example, if an exit is designated as EXIT 256 A, then there shall not be an exit designated as EXIT 256 on the same route in the same direction.

Guidance. To the extent practical, exit numbering should be determined based upon the location of the crossroad with respect to reference location signs as given in the following examples:

A. If a crossroad intersects the mainline approximately at or after Mile 15 and before Mile 16, the interchange should be designated as EXIT 15 (see Drawings A and B in Figure 903.5.22.1).

B. If the interchange crossroad is split into two roadways by direction where one direction of the crossroad is downstream of Mile 18 and the other direction is upstream of Mile 18, the interchange exit number should be EXIT 18 (see Drawings A and B in Figure 903.5.22.1).

C. If there are three closely-spaced interchanges, such as less than 1 mile apart, starting before Mile 16 and ending near or at Mile 17, the interchanges should be designated as EXIT 15, EXIT 16, and EXIT 17.

D. If there are multiple interchanges so closely spaced together that it is impracticable to designate the exit numbers by the freeway mainline reference mile numbers, suffix letters should be used as provided in this Section (see Drawings C and D in Figure 903.5.22.1).

Option. Exit numbers may also be used with Supplemental guide signs in compliance with the provisions of EPG 903.5.49, and Motorist Service signs in compliance with the provisions of EPG 903.9 and EPG 903.10.

Standard. Where exit suffix letters are used and the number of exits is not equal in both directions of travel, the exit suffix lettering for each direction shall be based on the number of exits in that direction. For example, if in the northbound direction of a freeway there are three exits for Mile 25 and two exits in the southbound direction, the exit numbers northbound shall be EXIT 25 A, EXIT 25 B, and EXIT 25 C; and the exit numbers southbound shall be EXIT 25 B followed by EXIT 25 A (see Drawing D in Figure 903.5.22.1).

Except as provided in EPG 903.5.35 for Collector-Distributor Roadways or as otherwise provided for in EPG 903.5, exit numbers and suffix letters shall only be used to designate individual exit departure points directly from the freeway mainline. Exit numbers and suffix letters shall not be used for designating ramp splits into two ramps after leaving the mainline.

The Exit Number (E1-5P) plaque shall be positioned above the top right-hand edge of the sign for an exit to the right (see Figure 903.5.23).

Because road users might not expect an exit to the left and might have difficulty in maneuvering to the left, a Left Exit Number (E1-5fP through E1-5kP) plaque (see Figure 903.5.23) shall be added above the top left-hand edge of the sign for all numbered left-hand exits (see Figure 903.5.28.2 and Figure 903.5.37). The word LEFT on the Left Exit Number plaque shall be a black legend on a yellow rectangular sign panel and shall be centered above the word EXIT.

Support. Example Exit Number plaque designs are shown in Figure 903.5.23. The incorporation of Exit Number plaques on guide signs is illustrated in EPG 903.5.23, 903.5.25, and 903.5.39.

Figure 903.5.22.2 provides an example of Interstate route loops and spurs around major metropolitan areas. The general plan for numbering interchange exits is shown in Figures 903.5.22.3 through 903.5.22.6. Figure 903.5.22.3 shows a circumferential route, which is a route that makes a complete circle around a city or town and usually has two interchanges (one on each side of the city or town) with each of the mainline routes that travel through the city or town. Figure 903.5.22.4 shows a loop route, which is a route that departs from a mainline route and then rejoins the same mainline route at a subsequent point downstream. For the purpose of Interstate route numbering, a three-digit Interstate route that provides connectivity between two different Interstate routes is also defined as a loop (see Figure 903.5.22.2). Figure 903.5.22.5 shows a spur route, which is a route that departs from a mainline route and never rejoins the same mainline route. Figure 903.5.22.6 shows two mainline routes that overlap each other.

Standard. Regardless of whether a mainline route originates within a State or crosses into the State from an adjacent State, the southernmost or westernmost terminus within that State shall be the beginning point for interchange exit numbering.

For circumferential routes, interchange exit numbering shall be in a clockwise direction. The numbering shall begin with the first interchange west of the south end of an imaginary north-south line bisecting the circumferential route, at a radial freeway or other Interstate route, or some other conspicuous landmark in the circumferential route near a south polar location (see Figure 903.5.22.3).

The interchange exit numbers on loop routes shall begin at the loop interchange nearest the south or west junction and increase in magnitude toward the north or east junction (see Figure 903.5.22.4).

Spur route interchanges shall be numbered in ascending order starting at the interchange where the spur leaves the mainline route (see Figure 903.5.22.5).

If a circumferential, loop, or spur route crosses State boundaries, the numbering sequence shall be coordinated by the States to provide continuous interchange exit numbering.

Where numbered routes overlap, continuity of interchange exit numbering shall be established for only one of the routes (see Figure 903.5.22.6). If one of the routes is an Interstate and the other route is not an Interstate, the Interstate route shall maintain continuity of exit interchange numbering.

Guidance. The route chosen for continuity of interchange exit numbering should also have reference location sign continuity (see Figure 903.5.22.6).

903.5.23 Interchange Advance Guide Signs (E1-1 through E1-3) (MUTCD Section 2E.23)

Support. An Interchange Advance guide sign (see Figure 903.5.23) gives notice well in advance of the exit point of the principal destinations served by the next interchange and the distance to that interchange. In rural areas, this sign will typically be a ground-mount sign. In urban areas, this sign will usually be mounted overhead.

Standard. Except as provided in the fourth Guidance paragraph of this Article, and in the second Option paragraph of EPG 903.5.25, at least one Interchange Advance guide sign shall be used for all interchanges.

Freeway-to-freeway and directional interchanges shall use one additional Advance Guide sign in each direction.

Guidance. Advance guide signs should be placed over the right lane for right hand exits and over the left lane for left hand exits. Two advance guide signs should not be placed side by side.

For interchanges with adequate spacing, Advance Guide signs should be placed 1 mile in advance of the exit gore. When used at freeway-to-freeway or directional interchanges, the additional Advance Guide sign should be located at a distance of 2 miles in advance of the interchange.

Support. EPG 903.5.29 through 903.5.42 contain additional provisions regarding the number, location, and mounting of Interchange Advance guide signs for certain interchange configurations.

Standard. Except as provided in EPG 903.5.28, the legend on Interchange Advance guide signs shall contain the distance message. For each direction of travel, the legend on the Interchange Advance guide signs shall be the same as the legend on the Exit Direction sign, except that the last line shall be the distance message. The distance message shall read XX MILE(S) where exit numbers are used. Where exit numbers are not used, the distance message shall read EXIT XX MILE(S) for an interchange with one exit ramp, and EXITS XX MILE(S) for an interchange with two or more exit ramps.

Guidance. All distances one mile or less should be treated as singular. For example, proper terminology is "1 MILE" and "1 ¼ MILES".

Where an Interchange Advance guide sign is located more than 1,000 feet to ½ mile from the exit, the distance displayed should be to the nearest ¼ mile. Where the distance to be displayed on an Interchange Advance guide sign is 1,000 feet or less, the distance should be displayed in feet, rather than miles, to the nearest 100 feet.

Standard. When a distance is displayed in miles, fractions of a mile, rather than decimals, shall be displayed in all cases.

For numbered exits, the exit number used with the Interchange Advance guides signs shall be displayed using an Exit Number plaque above and abutting the Interchange Advance guide sign.

For numbered exits to the right, an Exit Number (E1-5P through E1-5eP) plaque (see Figure 903.5.23) shall be added to the top right-hand edge of the sign.

For numbered exits to the left, a Left Exit Number (E1-5fP through E1-5kP) plaque (see Figure 903.5.23) shall be added above the top left-hand edge of the sign (see Figures 903.5.28.2 and 903.5.37).

For unnumbered exits to the left, a LEFT (E1-5mP) plaque (see Figure 903.5.23) shall be added to the top left-hand edge of the sign, abutting the sign.

Support. EPG 903.5.22 contains additional information regarding exit numbering.

Standard. Interchange Advance guide signs for multi-lane exits having an optional exit lane that also carries the through route at interchanges (see Figures 903.5.39.2 and 903.5.39.3) and for splits with an option lane (see Figure 903.5.39.4) shall be Overhead Arrow-per-Lane signs designed in accordance with EPG 903.5.38 and 903.5.39.

Option. Where the distance between interchanges is more than 1 mile, but less than 2 miles, the first Interchange Advance guide sign may be closer than 2 miles, but not placed so as to overlap the signing for the preceding exit. Duplicate Interchange Advance guide signs or Interchange Sequence Series signs may be placed in the median on the opposite side of the roadway and are not included in the minimum requirements of interchange signing.

Guidance. Where there is less than 800 feet between the theoretical gores of successive interchange entrance or exit ramps, Interchange Sequence Series signs (see EPG 903.5.24) should be used instead of Interchange Advance guide signs for the affected interchanges.

903.5.24 Interchange Sequence Signs (E9-1 and E9-2) (MUTCD Section 2E.24)

Support. Interchanges are sometimes closely spaced, particularly through large urban areas, so that typical guide signs cannot be adequately spaced. In such cases, Interchange Sequence signs identifying the next two (E9-1) or three (E9-2) interchanges can provide the necessary exit destination guidance.

Guidance. Where there is less than 800 feet between the theoretical gores of successive interchange entrance or exit ramps, Interchange Sequence signs should be used instead of Interchange Advance guide signs for the affected interchanges.

If used, Interchange Sequence (E9-1 or E9-2) signs should be used over the entire length of a route in an urban area.

Support. Interchange Sequence signs generally supplement Interchange Advance guide signs. Signing of this type is illustrated in Figure 903.5.24, and is compatible with the sign spreading concept described in the first Support paragraph of EPG 903.5.41.

Standard. Interchange Sequence signs shall be installed in a series. Interchange Sequence signs shall display the next two or three interchanges by name or route number with distances to the nearest ¼ mile.

The first Interchange Sequence sign in the series shall be located in advance of the first Interchange Advance guide sign for the first interchange.

An Interchange Sequence sign shall not be placed on a truss with any other guide sign, unless the sign faces the opposite direction of all other guide signs.

All interchanges shall be listed using the same name that will appear on the Advance Guide and Exit Direction signing for the interchange.

Where the exit direction is to the left, a LEFT (E11-2) sign panel (see Figure 903.5.28.1) shall be displayed on the same line immediately to the right of the interchange name or route number.

Interchange Sequence signs shall not be substituted for Exit Direction signs.

Guidance. The verbiage on the Interchange Sequence sign should appear on the appropriate advance and exit guide signs for sign continuity.

If the intersecting road of a freeway in an urban area is a state-maintained route, the appropriate route shield shall be used in addition to the street name or control communities displayed.

Interchange Sequence signs should be located in the median or placed on a bridge whenever possible. After the first sign of the series, subsequent Interchange Sequence signs should be placed approximately midway between interchanges. This will allow two signs (one for each direction of traffic) to be placed back to back on the same truss. Since the signs are usually back-to-back, a butterfly truss should be installed in the median of divided highways. Barrier protection should be used according to EPG 617.

Standard. Interchange Sequence signs located in the median shall be installed at overhead sign height (see EPG 903.1.14).

Exit numbers shall not be displayed on Interchange Sequence signs.

Option. When conditions arise where back-to-back sequence signs are not practical, an Interchange Sequence sign and truss may be placed on the right-hand side of traffic flow to avoid exposing opposite directions of traffic to a truss pedestal. If exposure to both directions of traffic is not a concern, this sign and truss may be placed at the standard location, on the left-hand side of the traffic flow.

Support. An example of how to use a common street name: Route 67 is commonly referred to as Lindbergh Boulevard. On the advance and exit guide signs, a U.S. Route 67 shield appears with the common name “Lindbergh Boulevard” underneath. The interchange sequence signs would show Lindbergh Blvd and/or shield.

903.5.25 Exit Direction Signs (E4 Series) (MUTCD Section 2E.25)

Support. The Exit Direction sign repeats the route and destination information that was displayed on the Interchange Advance guide sign(s) for the next exit, and thereby assures road users of the destination served and indicates whether they exit to the right or left for that destination.

Standard. Exit Direction signs shall be used at all interchanges. Populations or other similar information shall not be displayed on Exit Direction signs.

Support. EPG 903.5.28, 903.5.30, 903.5.32 through 903.5.34, 903.5.37, and 903.5.39 through 903.5.41 illustrate the use, location, and mounting of Exit Direction signs for certain interchange configurations. The placement location of the Exit Direction sign at the interchange depends on the type of mounting, post-mounted or overhead, and whether there is a deceleration lane (see Figure 903.5.25.3).

Guidance. When post-mounted, the Exit Direction sign should be installed at the beginning of the deceleration lane taper. When mounted overhead, the Exit Direction sign should be installed over the exiting lane in the vicinity of the theoretical gore. If there is less than 300 feet from the beginning of the taper to the theoretical gore, the Exit Direction sign should be installed overhead (see Figure 903.5.25.3).

Standard. Except where Overhead Arrow-per-Lane guide signs are used (see EPG 903.5.39 and the following paragraph of this Article), where a through lane is being terminated (dropped) at an exit, the Exit Direction sign shall be placed overhead at the theoretical gore (see Figures 903.5.28.2, 903.5.28.3, 903.5.36.1 and 903.5.36.2).

Except as provided in the second Standard paragraph of EPG 903.5.39, where Overhead Arrow-per-Lane guide signs are used for the Interchange Advance guide sign(s) for a multi-lane exit having an optional exit lane that also carries the through route or for a split with an option lane (see EPG 903.5.39), an Overhead Arrow-per-Lane guide sign shall also be used instead of the Exit Direction sign and located near, but not downstream from, the point where the outside edge of the dropped lane begins to diverge from the main roadway (see Figures 903.5.39.2 through 903.5.39.4). The Overhead Arrow-per-Lane guide sign shall be designed in accordance with the provisions of EPG 903.5.39.

The following provisions shall govern the design and application of overhead Exit Direction signs:

A. The sign shall display the Exit Number plaque (if exit numbering is used), the route number, cardinal direction, and destination, as applicable, with a diagonally upward-pointing directional arrow (see Figure 903.5.25.1).

B. The message EXIT ONLY in black on a fluorescent yellow sign panel (E11-1d or E11-1e) shall be used on the overhead Exit Direction sign to advise road users of a lane drop situation (see Figures 903.5.28.2 and 903.5.28.3). The sign shall comply with the provisions of EPG 903.5.28.

For numbered exits to the right, an Exit Number (E1-5P through E1-5eP) plaque (see Figure 903.5.23) shall be added above the top right-hand edge of the sign.

For numbered exits to the left, a Left Exit Number (E1-5fP through E1-5kP) plaque (see Figure 903.5.23) shall be added above the top left-hand edge of the sign.

For unnumbered exits to the left, a LEFT (E1-5mP) plaque (see Figure 903.5.23) shall be added above the top left-hand edge of the sign.

Support. EPG 903.5.22 contains additional information regarding exit numbering.

Guidance. At multi-exit interchanges, the Exit Direction sign should be located directly over the exiting lane for the first exit, in accordance with this Section. An Interchange Advance guide sign for the second exit should be installed at the same location, normally over the right-hand through lane. Only for those conditions where the through movement is not evident should a confirmatory message be used over the left-hand lane(s) to guide road users traveling through an interchange (see EPG 903.5.41 for additional information on sign spreading).

Where the freeway or expressway is on an overpass, the Exit Direction sign for the second exit should be installed on an overhead support over the exit lane in advance of the gore point, as near as practicable to the theoretical gore. Where the freeway or expressway passes under the crossroad and the exit ramp is located beyond the overcrossing structure, the overhead Exit Direction sign for the second exit should be placed either on the overcrossing structure (see Figures 903.5.32 through 903.5.34) or on a separate structure located immediately in front of the overcrossing structure.

Option. Where extra emphasis of an especially low advisory ramp speed is needed, an Exit Direction Advisory Speed (E13-2) sign panel (see Figure 903.5.25.2) may be placed at the bottom of the Exit Direction sign to supplement, but not to replace, the exit or ramp advisory speed warning signs.

In cases, where sight distance is restricted because of structures or unusual alignment, principally in urban areas, making it impossible to locate the Exit Direction sign without violating the required minimum spacing between major guide signs (see EPG 903.5.23), Interchange Sequence signs (see EPG 903.5.24) may be substituted for an Interchange Advance guide sign.

903.5.26 Exit Gore Signs and Plaque (E5-1 Series) (MUTCD Section 2E.26)

W13-1aP

Support. The Exit Gore sign in the gore indicates the exiting point or the place of departure from the main roadway. Consistent application of this sign at each exit is important to provide adequate visibility of the departure of the exit roadway from the main roadway.

Standard. The gore shall be defined as the area located between the main roadway and the ramp just beyond where the ramp branches from the main roadway. An Exit Gore sign shall be located in the gore for each ramp that departs from the main roadway of a freeway or expressway, or departs from a collector-distributor roadway, and shall display the word EXIT (E5-1) if interchange exit numbering is not used or EXIT XX (E5-1a) if interchange exit numbering is used (only on interstate routes), and an appropriate diagonally upward-pointing arrow. If suffix letters are used for exit numbering at a multi-exit interchange, the suffix letter shall also be included on the Exit Gore (E5-1a) sign shall be separated from the exit number by a space having a width of between ½ and ¾ of the height of the suffix letter. Breakaway or yielding supports shall be used.

The Exit Gore sign shall be placed within the gore area at a location no more than 100 feet beyond the upstream end of the physical gore (See Figure 903.5.26).

Option. A placement distance of approximately 100 feet beyond the beginning of the physical gore is desirable. However, the sign may be placed closer than 100 feet beyond the physical gore, as determined by engineering judgement.

Guidance. The arrow should be aligned to approximate the angle of departure. Each gore should be treated similarly, whether the interchange has one exit roadway or multiple exits.

Option. Where extra emphasis of an especially low advisory ramp speed is needed, the Confirmation Advisory Speed (W13-1aP) plaque (see EPG 903.3.59) indicating the advisory speed may be mounted below the Exit Gore sign to supplement, but not to replace, the exit or ramp advisory speed warning signs.

To improve the visibility of the gore for exiting drivers, a Type 1 object marker (see EPG 903.3) may be installed 4 feet above the ground line on each sign support below the Exit Gore sign.

903.5.27 Pull-Through Signs (E6-1 Series and E6-2 Series) (MUTCD Section 2E.27)

Support. Pull-Through (E6-1 series and E6-2 series) signs are overhead guide signs intended for through traffic.

Guidance. Pull-Through signs should be used where the geometrics of a given interchange are such that it is not clear to the road user as to which is the through roadway, or where additional route guidance is desired. Pull-Through signs with down arrows should be used where the alignment of the through lanes is curved and the exit direction is straight ahead, where the number of through lanes is not readily evident, and at multi-lane exits where there is a reduction in the number of through lanes. Pull-Through signs should not be used at exits with option lanes where full-width Overhead Arrow-per-Lane signs are being used.

Standard. When used, Pull-Through signs shall display the route shield and the cardinal direction for the through route.

Option. Pull-Through signs may display the control city and down arrows (see EPG 903.5.17).

Support. EPG 903.5.28, EPG 903.5.38, and EPG 903.5.39 contain information regarding the use of Overhead Arrow-per-Lane guide signs at multi-lane exits where there is a reduction in the number of through lanes and a through lane becomes an interior option lane for through or exiting traffic.

903.5.28 Signing for Interchange Lane Drops Without an Optional Exit Lane (MUTCD Section 2E.28)

Standard. The provisions of this Article shall only apply to lane drops at exits that do not have an optional exit lane. At exits that have an optional exit lane in addition to the dropped lane, the provisions of EPG 903.5.38 and 903.5.39 shall apply.

Except as provided in the fourth Guidance paragraph of this Article, major guide signs for all lane drops at interchanges shall be mounted overhead. An EXIT ONLY sign panel shall be used for all interchange lane drops at which the through route is carried on the mainline and when any lane being dropped is a minimum of 1,000 feet in length from full lane width to the theoretical gore.

Option. An EXIT ONLY sign panel may also be used in a situation where the lane being dropped is less than 1,000 feet in length where the terminus of the lane is not visible to the driver.

Standard. Except on Overhead Arrow-per-Lane and Diagrammatic Advance guide signs (see EPG 903.5.38 through 903.5.40), the EXIT ONLY (down arrow) (E11-1 or E11-1f) sign panel (see Figure 903.5.28.1) shall be used on all overhead Advance guide signs of lane drops (see Figures 903.5.28.2, 903.5.28.3, and 903.5.37). The number of arrows on each sign shall correspond to the number of dropped lanes at the location of each sign. Placement of the down arrow shall comply with the provisions of EPG 903.5.17.

For lane drops, the bottom portion of the overhead Exit Direction sign shall be fluorescent yellow with a black border and shall include a diagonally upward-pointing black directional arrow (left or right, as appropriate) for each lane dropped at the exit (see Figures 903.5.28.2 and 903.5.28.3). The sign shall be designed and placed so that each arrow is located over the approximate center of each lane being dropped. Except as provided in the following paragraph, the words EXIT and ONLY shall be positioned to the left and right, respectively, of the arrow on the E11-1d sign panel (see Figure 903.5.28.1) for a single-lane drop. For a two-lane drop, the words EXIT ONLY shall be located between the two arrows on the E11-1e sign panel (see Figure 903.5.28.1). The number of arrows on the sign shall correspond to the number of dropped lanes at the location of the sign.

Option. Where an existing sign structure length or adjacent signs constrain the width or placement of the Interchange Advance guide sign on that structure, the down arrow may be positioned to the right or left of the words EXIT ONLY, instead of between the words, to allow for the positioning of the arrow over the approximate center of the lane. Where the width of the Exit Direction sign extends over the adjacent lane, the directional arrow may be placed to the right of the words EXIT ONLY for an exit to the right, or to the left of the words EXIT ONLY for an exit to the left, to allow for the positioning of the arrow over the dropped lane.

EXIT ONLY messages of either the combination of E11-1a and E11-1b, or the E11-1c sign panels (see Figure 903.5.28.1) may be used to retrofit existing signing to warn of a lane drop situation ahead.

Standard. If used to retrofit an existing guide sign, the E11-1a and E11-1b sign panels (see Figure 903.5.28.1) shall be placed on either side of a white down arrow on an Interchange Advance guide sign and on either side of a white directional arrow on an Exit Direction sign. The E11-1c sign panel (see Figure 903.5.28.1), if used to retrofit an existing Interchange Advance guide sign, shall be placed between the lower destination message and the white down arrow.

Guidance. Some single exit only lanes develop into dual exit only lanes. An advance EXIT ONLY guide sign should be placed over the single lane before it develops into two, then a second advance EXIT ONLY guide sign should be placed after both lanes are fully developed.

Except as provided in the paragraph below for an auxiliary lane, Interchange Advance guide signs for lane drops within 1 mile of the interchange should not display the distance message.

Where the dropped lane is an auxiliary lane that is provided between successive entrance and exit ramps of two separate interchanges and the distance between the two ramps is less than 1 mile, the first Interchange Advance guide sign in the sequence downstream from the entrance ramp should display the distance message (see Figure 903.5.28.4).

Where the dropped lane carries the through route, signs should be used without the EXIT ONLY sign panel.

Support. Figure 903.5.28.4 shows an example of guide signs for a dropped auxiliary lane between separate interchanges using overhead guide signs. Figure 903.5.22.5 shows guides signs used for an auxiliary lane that is 1,000 feet or longer.

EPG 903.5.38 through 903.5.40 contain information on the signing of lane drops at exits that also have an option lane.

EPG 903.3.41 contains information regarding warning signs that can also be used for freeway lane drop situations.

Guidance. In limited cases in which conditions are so constrained that it is impossible to locate an Interchange Advance guide sign either overhead or partly over the dropped lane, precluding positioning of the down arrow as provided in the third Standard paragraph of this Section, a sign panel displaying the legend RIGHT (LEFT) LANE ONLY in a black legend on a fluorescent yellow background should be substituted for the EXIT ONLY panel on that sign. In such cases, the Interchange Advance guide signs should be alternated with RIGHT (LEFT) LANE EXIT ONLY (W9-7) signs (see EPG 903.3.41).

Where a mainline lane is terminated immediately after an exit ramp, overhead and/or post mounted warning signs should be used to warn traffic as shown in Figure 903.5.22.6.

903.5.29 Signing by Type of Interchange (MUTCD Section 2E.29)

Support. Road users need signs to help identify the location of the exit, as well as to obtain route, direction, and destination information for specific exit ramps. Figures 903.5.30 through 903.5.36.2 show examples of guide signs for common types of interchanges. The interchange layouts shown in most of the figures illustrate only the major guide signs for one direction of traffic on the freeway and on the exit ramps. EPG 903.4.44 contains information regarding the signing of the crossroad approaches and connecting roadways to freeways and expressways.

Guidance. The signing layout for all interchanges of the same type should be similar. For the purpose of uniform application, the significant features of the signing layout for each of the more frequent types of interchanges (illustrated in Figures 903.5.29.1 through 903.5.36.2) should be followed as closely as possible. Even when unusual geometric features exist, variations in signing layout should be held to a minimum.

Where a single interchange combines a different type of ramp configuration for each direction of travel, the main roadway major guide signing should be determined by the specific interchange type for that direction of travel.

Support. Figures 903.5.29.1 and 903.5.29.2 shows examples of signing for an interchange exit ramp with a downstream split.

903.5.30 Diamond Interchange (MUCTD Section 2E.31)

Support. An example of guide signs for a diamond interchange is shown in Figure 903.5.30.

The typical diamond interchange ramp departs from the main roadway such that a speed reduction generally is not necessary in order for a driver to negotiate an exit maneuver from the main roadway onto the ramp roadway. EPG 903.3.12 contains provisions for the use of an Advisory Exit Speed (W13-2) sign for situations where a speed reduction is necessary.

Guidance. When a speed reduction is not necessary, an Advisory Exit Speed sign should not be used.

The Advisory Exit Speed sign, if used, should be located along the deceleration lane or along the ramp such that it is visible to the driver far enough in advance to allow the driver to decelerate before reaching the curve associated with the exiting maneuver. Use and placement of the Advisory Exit Speed sign should otherwise comply with EPG 903.3.12 of the EPG.

Option. A Stop Ahead (W3-1) or Signal Ahead (W3-3) warning sign (see EPG 903.3.29) may be placed, where engineering judgment indicates a need, along the ramp in advance of the crossroad, to give notice to the driver.

Guidance. When used on two-lane ramps, Stop Ahead or Signal Ahead signs should be used in pairs with one sign on each side of the ramp.

Where the exit ramp allows traffic to turn in either direction onto the crossroad, a Destination (D1 series) sign (see EPG 903.4.32) that includes each destination displayed on the Advance, Exit Direction, and Supplemental guide signs along the main roadway for that exit should be placed along the ramp.

903.5.31 Diamond Interchange in Urban Area (MUTCD Section 2E.32)

Support. An example of guide signs for a diamond interchange in an urban area is shown in Figure 903.5.31. This example includes the use of the Community Interchanges Identification sign (see EPG 903.5.50), which might be useful if two or more interchanges serve the same community.

In urban areas, street names are often displayed as the principal message in destination signs.

Option. If interchanges are too closely spaced to locate the Interchange Advance guide signs at the distances specified in EPG 903.5.23, they may be placed closer to the exit with the distances displayed adjusted accordingly.

903.5.32 Cloverleaf Interchange (MUTCD Section 2E.33)

Support. A cloverleaf interchange has two exits for each direction of travel. The exits are closely spaced and have common Advance guide signs. An example of guide signs for a cloverleaf interchange is shown in Figure 903.5.32.

Guidance. The Advance guide signs should include two place names, one corresponding to each exit ramp, with the name of the place served by the first exit on the upper line.

Standard. An overhead guide sign assembly shall be placed at the theoretical gore of the first exit ramp, with an Exit Direction sign for the first exit and an Interchange Advance guide sign for the second exit, as shown in Figure 903.5.32. The second exit shall be indicated by an overhead Exit Direction sign over the auxiliary lane.

Interchanges with more than one exit from the main roadway shall be numbered as described in EPG 903.5.22 with an appropriate suffix.

Guidance. Where the main roadway passes under the crossroad and the exit roadway is located beyond the overcrossing structure, the placement of the overhead Exit Direction sign for the second exit should comply with EPG 903.5.25 (see Figure 903.5.32).

903.5.33 Cloverleaf Interchange with Collector-Distributor Roadways (MUTCD Section 2E.34)

Support. An example of guide signs for a full cloverleaf interchange with collector-distributor roadways is shown in Figure 903.5.33.

Guidance. Destination names and route numbers shown on the collector-distributor roadway signing should be the same as those used on the upstream Interchange Advance guide signs on the main roadway.

Standard. Exit Direction signs at exits from the collector-distributor roadways shall be overhead and located at the theoretical gore of the collector-distributor roadway and the exit ramp.

Guidance. Exits from the collector-distributor roadways should be numbered with an appropriate suffix. If the exits from a collector-distributor roadway are numbered, the Interchange Advance guide and Exit Direction signs on the main roadway should include, in addition to two place names, their corresponding exit number and suffixes with the plural EXITS in the Exit Number (E1-5P series) plaque. If only the exit from the main roadway is numbered, the Interchange Advance guide and Exit Direction signs on the main roadway should use the singular EXIT in the Exit Number plaque. If interchange exit numbering is not used, the Interchange Advance guide signs on the main roadway should use the singular EXIT in the distance messages.

903.5.34 Partial Cloverleaf Interchange (MUTCD Section 2E.35)

Support. An example of guide signs for a partial cloverleaf interchange is shown in Figure 903.5.34.

Guidance. For a partial cloverleaf with only one exit roadway in a direction of travel, where the main roadway passes under the crossroad and the exit roadway is located beyond the overcrossing structure, the overhead Exit Direction sign should be placed either on the overcrossing structure (see Figure 903.5.34) or on a separate structure located immediately in front of the overcrossing structure.

Support. Partial cloverleaf interchanges with successive exit ramps from the same direction of travel are signed the same as cloverleaf interchanges for that direction of travel (see EPG 903.5.32).

903.5.35 Collector-Distributor Roadways for Successive Interchanges (MUTCD Section 2E.36)

Support. Examples of guide signs for a collector-distributor roadway that provides access to multiple interchanges are shown in Figures 903.5.35.1 and 903.5.35.2. EPG 903.10 contains provisions for General Service and Specific Service signs.

Guidance. Where access to successive interchanges is provided from a single collector-distributor roadway, the number of lines of destination information displayed on the major guide signs on the main roadway approach to the collector-distributor roadway should comply with the provisions of EPG 903.5.14.

Where exit numbering is used, the exit numbers for exits accessed from the collector-distributor roadway should be displayed on the main roadway guide signs.

An Exit Gore sign (see EPG 903.5.26) should be placed in the gore where the collector-distributor roadway departs from the main roadway.

Interchange guide signing along the collector-distributor roadway should comply with the provisions for interchange signing in EPG 903.5.

903.5.36 Freeway-to-Freeway Interchanges (MUTCD Section 2E.37)

Support. Freeway-to-freeway interchanges are major decision points where the effect of taking a wrong ramp cannot be easily corrected. Reversing direction on the connecting freeway or reentering to continue on the intended course is usually not possible. Examples of guide signs for freeway-to-freeway interchanges are shown in Figures 903.5.36.1 and 903.5.36.2.

Guidance. The sign messages should contain only the route shield, cardinal direction, and the name of the next control city on the route. Arrows should point as indicated in EPG 903.4.8, except where Overhead Arrow-per-Lane signs are used in accordance with the provisions of EPG 903.5.38 and 903.5.39.

Support. An off-route movement is the movement that does not follow the through route. Drivers might not expect the off-route movement to be to the left or an optional lane at a split (see Figure 903.5.39.4). EPG 903.5.22 contains information about the use of the Left Exit Number (E1-5fP through E1-5kP) plaque at splits where the off-route movement is to the left. EPG 903.5.38 and 903.5.39 contain information about the use of Overhead Arrow-per-Lane guide signs for freeway splits with an option lane and for multi-lane freeway-to-freeway exits having an option lane.

Standard. The roadway for the off-route shall be signed as an exit. If exit numbering is used, the signs shall comply with the provisions of EPG 903.5.22. Distance messages on the Advance guide signs shall comply with the provisions of EPG 903.5.23.

Overhead signs shall be used at a distance of 1 mile and at the theoretical gore of each connecting ramp. When Overhead Arrow-per-Lane signs are used, they shall be located in accordance with the provisions of EPG 903.5.39.

Option. The Advance guide signs at the ½-mile and 2-mile locations may also be mounted overhead.

Guidance. An Advisory Exit Speed (W13-2) sign should be used where an engineering study shows that it is necessary to display a speed reduction message for ramp signing (see EPG 903.3.12).

903.5.37 Freeway Split with Dedicated Lanes (MUTCD Section 2E.38)

Standard. Signing for freeway splits with dedicated lanes shall use the sign designs shown in Figure 903.5.37.

The arrows on each Interchange Advance guide sign shall match the number of lanes present at the location of the Advance guide sign.

The signs for this application shall be mounted overhead. When arrows are used, each arrow shall be located over the approximate center of the lane to which it applies.

Where one roadway of the split carries the through route, the other roadway of the split shall be signed as an exit. If exit numbering is used, the signs shall comply with the provisions of EPG 903.5.22. Distance messages on the Advance guide signs shall comply with the provisions of EPG 903.5.23.

The number and location of Advance guide signs shall comply with the provisions of EPG 903.5.23.

Guidance. The Exit Direction and Pull-Through signs should be located at the theoretical gore.

The Exit Direction and Pull Through signs should display down arrows if the alignment is straight or diagonal upward-pointing directional arrows if the alignment is curved (see EPG 903.4.8).

Standard. The Exit Direction sign shall contain the EXIT ONLY (E11-1 series) sign panel (see EPG 903.5.28).

903.5.38 Signing for Option Lanes at Splits and Multi-Lane Exits (MUTCD Section 2E.39)

Support. Some freeway and expressway splits or multi-lane exit interchanges contain an interior option lane serving both movements in which traffic can either leave the route or remain on the route, or choose either destination at a split, from the same lane.

Standard. On freeways and expressways, Overhead Arrow-per-Lane guide sign designs as provided in EPG 903.5.39 shall be used for all multi-lane exits at interchanges (see EPG 903.5.10) that have an optional exit lane that also carries the through route (see Figures 903.5.39.2 and 903.5.39.3) and for all splits that include an option lane (see Figure 903.5.39.4). Overhead Arrow-per-Lane guide signs shall not be used on freeways and expressways for any other types of exits or splits, including single-lane exits and splits that do not have an option lane.

903.5.39 Design of Overhead Arrow-per-Lane Guide Signs for Option Lanes (MUTCD Section 2E.40)

Support. Overhead Arrow-per-Lane guide signs (see Figure 903.5.39.1) are used where an option lane is present at freeway and expressway multi-lane exit interchanges and splits. They display an upward-pointing arrow above each lane that conveys the direction(s) of travel that the lane serves at the point of departure. At locations where an option lane is present at a multi-lane exit or split, Overhead Arrow-per-Lane guide signs have been shown to be superior to other guide sign designs because they convey positive direction about which destination and direction each approach lane serves, particularly for the option lane, which is otherwise difficult to clearly sign.

Standard. Overhead Arrow-per-Lane guide signs as provided in EPG 903.5.38 shall be used at all new or reconstructed freeway and expressway locations and at freeway and expressway locations where replacement of existing sign support structures is necessitated by reconstruction. The Overhead Arrow-per-Lane guide sign at the exit or split shall be located at or in the immediate vicinity of the point where the exiting lanes begin to diverge from the through lanes or, for a split, at the point where the approach lanes begin to diverge from one another, preserving the relation of the arrows displayed on the sign to their respective lanes. The Overhead Arrow-per-Lane guide sign at the exit shall not be located at or near the theoretical gore.

Option. At existing or non-reconstructed locations where an overhead Exit Direction sign exists at the theoretical gore, and the existing sign support structure is retained, an overhead Exit Direction sign may continue to be used on the existing sign support structure in conjunction with a replacement of the advance signs using the Overhead Arrow-per-Lane guide sign design.

Standard. If an existing Exit Direction sign is being retained at an interchange as provided in the previous paragraph, an Overhead Arrow-per-Lane guide sign shall not be used at the location of the Exit Direction sign at or in the vicinity of the theoretical gore. New installations of Exit Direction and Pull-Through signs shall not be permitted in conjunction with Overhead Arrow-per-Lane guide signs on new or reconstructed facilities.

Guidance. Overhead Arrow-per-Lane guide signs should be located at approximately ½ mile and 1 mile in advance of the exit or split, and at approximately 2 miles in advance of the exit or split where space is available and conditions allow.

Standard. Overhead Arrow-per-Lane guide signs used on freeways and expressways shall be designed in accordance with the following criteria:

A. The sign shall include an upward-pointing (vertical, curved, or bifurcated) arrow for each lane of the approach to the split or exit.

B. The shaft of each arrow shall be located over the approximate center of the lane to which it applies.

C. Arrows for continuing through lanes shall be vertically upward-pointing (see Figure 903.5.39.2) unless the continuing through lanes are on a significantly curved alignment beyond the theoretical gore (see Figure 903.5.39.3).

D. The arrow for a lane that must exit shall be curved in the direction of the exit and shall be accompanied by black-on-fluorescent yellow EXIT (E11-1a) and ONLY (E11-1b) sign panels adjacent to the lower end of the arrow shaft. The E11-1a and E11-1b sign panels shall not be used for a split of two overlapping routes where neither of the diverging routes is designated as an exit. Where the through lanes curve and the exit continues on a straight alignment, upward-pointing vertical arrows shall be used for the exiting movement and curved arrows for the through movement (see Figure 903.5.39.3).

E. The arrow for an optional exit lane that also carries the through route shall have a single shaft that bifurcates into a vertically upward-pointing arrow and a curving arrow corresponding to the configuration of the through and exit lanes.

F. For splits with an option lane, the arrow for the lane from which either direction of the split can be accessed shall have a single shaft that bifurcates into two upward-pointing curving arrows (see Figure 903.5.39.4).

G. A vertical white line shall be used to separate the route shields and destinations for the two diverging movements from each other.

H. The distance to the exit or split shall be displayed below the off-movement destination on the advance signs at the 1-mile and 2-mile locations.

I. The number of lanes displayed on a sign shall correspond to the number of lanes at the location of that sign. An advance sign shall not depict lanes that are added downstream of the sign location.

J. For numbered exits, the Exit Number (E1-5P) or Left Exit Number (E1-5bP) plaque shall be used at the top of the sign in accordance with EPG 903.5.23. For unnumbered exits to the left, a LEFT (E1-5mP) plaque shall be added on the top left-hand edge of and adjacent to the sign.

Guidance. Overhead Arrow-per-Lane guide signs used on freeways and expressways should be designed in accordance with the following additional criteria:

A. No more than one destination should be displayed for each movement, and no more than two destinations should be displayed per sign.

B. The arrowhead(s) for the diverging movement should be positioned lower on the sign than the arrowhead(s) for the movement that continues straight ahead, independent of which movement carries the through route. Where the movements are freeway or expressway splits rather than exits, the arrowheads should be positioned at approximately the same height on the sign.

C. Route shields, cardinal directions, and destinations should be positioned on the sign such that they are clearly related to the arrowhead(s) for the movement to which they apply.

D. The cardinal direction should be placed adjacent to the route shield for exits or splits leading in a single cardinal direction.

E. The vertical white line that is used to separate the route shields and destinations for the two diverging movements from each other should not descend below the top of the arrowheads for the through lanes, and should be positioned approximately halfway between the diverging arrowheads for the optional movement lane (see Figure 903.5.39.1).

Standard. Overhead Arrow-per-Lane guide signs shall not be used to depict a downstream split of an exit ramp on a sign located on the mainline.

Support. Specific detailed design of Overhead Arrow-per-Lane guide signs will be provided by the Highway Safety and Traffic division.

Standard. The arrow heights for Overhead Arrow-per-Lane guide signs on freeways and expressways shall be as shown in Table 903.5.39.

Option. Where extra emphasis of an especially low advisory ramp speed is needed, an EXIT XX MPH (E13-2) sign panel (see Figure 903.5.25.3) may be placed below the applicable destination legend to supplement, but not to replace, the exit or ramp advisory speed warning signs.

**Table 903.5.39** Overhead Arrow-per-Lane Arrow Height Based on Principal Legend Letter Height
Principal Legend Letter Height	Through Arrow	Turn Arrow	Through with Turn Arrow	Split Arrow
16 or less	40	30	40	33.33
Note: Letter and arrow heights are shown in inches.

903.5.40 Design of Freeway and Expressway Diagrammatic Advance Guide Signs (MUTCD Section 2E.41)

Support. MoDOT no longer uses diagrammatic signs for option lanes. Overhead arrow-per-lane guide signs are used exclusively for this purpose.

903.5.41 Number of Signs at an Overhead Installation and Sign Spreading (MUTCD Section 2E.43)

Guidance. If overhead signs are warranted, as set forth in EPG 903.1.13, the number of signs at these locations should be limited to only those essential in communicating pertinent destination information to the road user. Exit Direction signs for a single exit and the Interchange Advance Guide signs should have only one sign with one or two destinations. Regulatory signs, such as speed limits, should not be used in conjunction with overhead guide sign installations. Because road users have limited time to read and comprehend sign messages, there should not be more than three guide signs displayed at any one location either on the overhead structure or its support for one direction of travel.

Option. At overhead locations, more than one sign may be installed to advise of a multiple exit condition at an interchange. If the roadway ramp or crossroad has complex or unusual geometrics, additional signs with confirming messages may be provided to properly guide the road user.

Support. Sign spreading is a concept where major overhead signs are spaced so that road users are not overloaded with a group of signs at a single location.

Guidance. Where overhead signing is used, sign spreading should be used at all single-exit interchanges and to the extent possible at multi-exit interchanges. Sign spreading should be accomplished by use of the following:

A. The Exit Direction sign should be the only guide sign used in the vicinity of the gore (other than the Exit Gore sign). It should be located overhead near the theoretical gore and generally on an overhead sign support structure.

B. The Interchange Advance guide sign to indicate the next interchange exit should be placed near the crossroad location. If the crossroad goes over the mainline, the Interchange Advance guide sign should be placed on the overcrossing structure or on a separate structure immediately in front of the overcrossing structure.

903.5.42 Closely-Spaced Interchanges (MUTCD Section 2E.44)

Support. EPG 903.5.41 contains information regarding sign spreading where the Exit Direction sign and the Interchange Advance guide sign for the next interchange are mounted overhead. Sign spreading is particularly beneficial where interchanges are closely spaced and overhead signing is used in conjunction with Interchange Sequence signs as provided in the following paragraph.

Guidance. Interchange Sequence signs (see EPG 903.5.24) should be used at closely-spaced interchanges. When used, they should identify and show street names and distances for the next two or three exits as shown in Figure 903.5.24.

Standard. Interchange Advance guide signs for closely-spaced interchanges shall show information for only one interchange.

903.5.43 Guide Signing in Tunnels and Similar Structures (MUTCD Section 2E.45)

Support. The application of the provisions for freeway and expressway guide signs in tunnels and other similar structures can present unique challenges not encountered elsewhere due to the extended and continuous distances of constrained vertical and horizontal clearances in which to place signs. The effect of these constraints is particularly evident when there are interchange exit ramps inside the tunnel that require guide signing. As a result, it might not always be possible to use the typical layouts for guide signs inside a tunnel. In addition, interchange guide signs might need to be limited to one destination only, with other destinations displayed separately on Supplemental guide signs (see EPG 903.5.49). Acceptable methods to modify the layout of a sign to fit the space available in a tunnel are provided in the following paragraph.

Option. Overhead-mounted guide signs in tunnels, or in other similar structures with extended constrained vertical and horizontal clearances, may be modified in accordance with the following when needed to accommodate limited vertical clearance available for signs:

A. Some sign legend elements may be arranged side by side, such as by placing route shields to the left of the destination instead of above.

B. The Exit Number plaque (see EPG 903.5.22) may be placed at the right-hand edge of the sign for right exits or at the left-hand edge of the sign for left exits instead of at the top edge of the sign. The legend of the Exit Number plaque may use a reduced letter height of not less than 6 inches for the word EXIT(S) and not less than 12 inches for numerals and suffixes.

C. Destination and roadway names may be displayed in reduced letter heights with an initial upper-case letter of not less than 10.67 inches, when determined acceptable based on consideration of reduced speed and other relevant factors, while maintaining adequate space between the legend and edges of the sign to ensure legibility and quick recognition.

D. Unusually long destination and roadway names that cannot be adequately shortened or otherwise acceptably abbreviated may be displayed using Series D letters in lieu of Series E (modified).

Standard. Applicability of the provisions of the previous paragraph shall be limited to those signs within the limits of the tunnel or other similar structure and shall not be extended to the approaches to or departures from the tunnel.

Support. Unlike typical guide signs that are exposed to rain, guide signs in tunnels accumulate grime and residue quickly. This accumulation can reduce visual contrast between legend and background and reduce the retroreflectivity of the sign sheeting. Therefore, guide signs in tunnels generally need more maintenance.

Guidance. Overhead signs in tunnels should have external or internal sign illumination to ensure adequate visibility between scheduled maintenance and cleanings.

One or more Interchange Sequence signs (see EPG 903.5.24) should be used on the approach to the tunnel entrance to display the distances to the next interchanges that have exit ramps inside the tunnel or immediately following the end of the tunnel.

Supplementary pavement markings, such as word, arrow, and/or route shield markings, should be considered inside the tunnel in addition to the basic lane and edge line markings.

903.5.44 Next Exit Plaques (E2-1P and E2-1aP) (MUTCD Section 2E.46)

E2-1P

Option. Where the distance to the next interchange is 5 miles or more, a Next Exit (E2-1P or E2-1aP) plaque may be installed to inform road users of the distance to the next interchange.

Guidance. The Next Exit plaque should not be used unless the distance between successive interchanges is more than 5 miles.

Where the Next Exit plaque is used, the E2-1P plaque should be used where the width of the Interchange Advance guide sign is equal to or greater than the width of the E2-1P plaque. The E2-1aP plaque should be used where the width of the E2-1P plaque exceeds the width of the Interchange Advance guide sign.

Standard. The Next Exit plaque shall display the legend NEXT EXIT XX MILES. If the Next Exit plaque is used, it shall be placed below the Interchange Advance guide sign nearest the interchange. It shall be mounted so as to not adversely affect the breakaway feature of the sign support structure.

903.5.45 Post-Interchange Signs (MUTCD Section 2E.47)

Guidance. If space between interchanges permits, as in rural areas, and where undue repetition of messages will not occur, a fixed sequence of signs should be displayed beginning 500 feet beyond the downstream end of the acceleration lane. At this point a Route Sign assembly should be installed followed by a Speed Limit sign and a Distance sign, each at a spacing of 1,000 feet (see Figure 903.5.21).

Option. On interstates, the route confirmation markers may be omitted due to the existence of the emergency reference markers.

Guidance. If space between interchanges does not permit placement of these three post-interchange signs without encroaching on or overlapping the Advance guide signs necessary for the next interchange, or in rural areas where the interchanging traffic is primarily local, one or more of the post-interchange signs should be omitted.

Option. Usually the Distance sign will be of less importance than the other two signs and may be omitted, especially if Interchange Sequence signs are used. If the sign for through traffic on an overhead assembly already contains the route sign, the post-interchange route sign assembly may also be omitted.

903.5.46 Post-Interchange Distance Signs (E7-1 through E7-3) (MUTCD Section 2E.48)

Standard. If used, the Post-Interchange Distance sign shall consist of a one-line, two-line, or three-line sign displaying the names of significant destination points and the distances to those points. The top line of the sign shall identify the next meaningful interchange with the name of the community near or through which the route passes, or if there is no community, the route number or name of the intersected highway.

Guidance. Post-Interchange Distance signs should not be used on roadways that use interchange sequence signing.

Support. The minimum sizes of the route shields identifying a significant destination point are prescribed in Tables 903.5.11.2 and 903.5.11.3.

Guidance. If a second line is used, it should be reserved for communities of general interest that are located on or immediately adjacent to the route or for major traffic generators along the route.

Option. The choice of names for the second line, if it is used, may be varied on successive Distance signs to give road users maximum information concerning communities served by the route.

Standard. The third, or bottom line, shall contain the name and distance to a control city (if any) that has national significance for travelers using the route.

Guidance. Distances to the same destinations should not be shown more frequently than at 5-mile intervals. The distances displayed on these signs should be the actual distance to the destination points and not to the exit from the freeway or expressway. The distance displayed for each community should comply with the provisions of EPG 903.4.38.

Support. For interchanges, all guide sign distances are calculated from the advance sign location to the exit gore. Guide signs are located as close to the actual distance as possible. Guide sign distances do not have to be exact, but they need be as close as practical. For intersections, the stop bar or beginning of the crossroad radius is used to set guide sign distances. When referencing to a cloverleaf or another design where the exit ramps for the same route are separated by an appreciable distance, advance guide sign distances refer to the first theoretical gore.

903.5.47 Post-Interchange Travel Time Sign (MUTCD Section 2E.49)

Support. At certain locations, it might be more meaningful to recurrent road users to display the travel time rather than the distance to a destination. Such instances might be areas of adverse roadway conditions due to weather, such as in mountain passes or high elevations, congestion that occurs during peak travel seasons, or recurring congestion.

EPG 903.5.48 contains information on Distance and Travel Time and Comparative Travel Time signs.

Standard. If used, the Post-Interchange Travel Time sign (see Figure 903.5.47) shall replace of the Post-Interchange Distance sign in the series of post-interchange signs (see EPG 903.5.45).

The Post-Interchange Travel Time sign shall comply with the provisions of the first Paragraph of EPG 903.5.45 with the following exceptions:

A. The distance shall be replaced with a changeable message element to display the current travel time to the applicable destination; and

B. The abbreviation MINS shall follow the changeable message element.

Travel times shall not be used on Interchange guide signs (see EPG 903.5.21).

903.5.48 Distance and Travel Time Sign and Comparative Travel Time Sign (MUTCD Section 2E.50)

Support. Some locations might benefit from a travel time message displayed with the distance, or comparative travel times displayed for alternative routes to a common destination. These locations are often in advance of an urbanized area where interchanges become more closely spaced and/or in advance of a circumferential or other alternative route(s) where the road user can decide to divert depending on the destination. Nonetheless, these signs are typically located in advance of a decision point where the road user can divert to an alternate route to avoid recurring congestion.

EPG 903.5.48 contains information on Post-Interchange Travel Time signs.

Standard. The Distance and Travel Time sign (see EPG 903.5.48) shall display a major destination, landmark, or junction; a distance message; and a travel time message, each on a separate line. The distance units shall be displayed in the distance message. The travel time shall be displayed in a changeable message element and the abbreviation MINS shall follow the changeable message element. The Distance and Travel Time sign shall not display distance and time to more than one destination or junction.

The Comparative Travel Time sign (see EPG 903.5.48) shall display a major destination, landmark, or junction, and two alternative routes with travel time messages. Each alternative route and associated travel time message shall be on a separate line. The travel time shall be displayed in a changeable message element and the abbreviation MINS shall follow the changeable message element.

Comparative travel times shall not be used to promote different modes of travel, such as personal vehicle highway travel compared with transit, or different forms of transit.

Guidance. Where used, the Distance and Travel Time sign should be located between interchanges and away from the sequence of interchange guide signs or other major signs. Where used, the Comparative Travel Time sign should be located in advance of the sequence of interchange guide signs to provide adequate time for the road user to decide whether to reroute.

903.5.49 Supplemental Guide Signs (E3 Series) (MUTCD Section 2E.51)

Support. Supplemental guide signs (see Figure 903.5.49) can be used to provide information regarding destinations accessible from an interchange, other than places displayed on the standard interchange signing. However, such Supplemental guide signing can reduce the effectiveness of other more important guide signing because of the possibility of overloading the road user’s capacity to receive visual messages and make appropriate decisions. “The AASHTO Guidelines for the Selection of Supplemental Guide Signs for Traffic Generators Adjacent to Freeways” is incorporated by reference in this Article.

This class of sign includes College and Major Traffic Generator signs. Recreational area and historic signs are white on brown. Major traffic generator signs and most other supplemental signs are white on green.

Guidance. Use of Supplemental guide signs should be limited to situations where there is a demonstrated need to sign for more destinations from an interchange than those that are displayed on the Interchange Advance guide and Exit Direction signs.

A Supplemental guide sign should not be installed unless a destination meets the criteria established by MoDOT policy. MoDOT should adopt an appropriate policy for installing Supplemental guide signs using the “AASHTO Guidelines for the Selection of Supplemental Guide Signs for Traffic Generators Adjacent to Freeways.” In developing policies for such signing, such items as population, amount of traffic generated, distance from the route, and the significance of the destination, should be taken into account.

Supplemental Guide signs should be post-mounted when adequate space is available, regardless of other guide signs being overhead or post-mounted.

No more than one Supplemental guide sign should be used on each interchange approach.

A Supplemental guide sign should display no more than two destinations and no more than three lines of destination names. Destination names should be followed by the interchange number (and suffix), or if interchanges are not numbered, by the legend NEXT RIGHT or SECOND RIGHT or both, as appropriate. If cloverleaf or closely spaced interchanges exist, the interchange exit number and suffix may be used.

Where two or more Interchange Advance guide signs are used, the Supplemental guide sign should be installed approximately midway between two of the Interchange Advance guide signs. If only one Interchange Advance guide sign is used, the Supplemental guide sign should follow it by at least 800 feet. If the interchanges are numbered, the interchange number should be used for the action message.

Supplemental guide signs should not be installed in the same location with or where it will detract from guide signs for a different interchange.

Standard. Supplemental Guide signs shall be installed as an independent guide sign assembly.

No more than two supplemental traffic generator destinations shall be signed from a single interchange approach and four from a single interchange along the main roadway (see the fourth and fifth Guidance paragraphs of this Article regarding the number of Supplemental guide signs at an interchange and the number of destinations displayed on a Supplemental guide sign).

Supplemental guide signs shall not be placed at the same location as Interchange Advance guide, Exit Direction, or other signs related to an exit or interchange.

Guide signs for recreational or cultural interest destinations (see EPG 903.13) shall be considered as Supplemental guide signs, except where the interchange provides direct access to such a destination and the destination is instead displayed on the Interchange Advance guide and Exit Direction signs.

Option. A pictograph (see definition in EPG 911 (MUTCD Section 1C.02)) may be used on a Supplemental Guide sign in conjunction with a destination that is associated with governmental agencies, military bases, universities, or other government-approved institutions.

Standard. The maximum dimension (height or width) of a pictograph shall not exceed two times the upper-case letter height of the destination legend and shall not exceed the size of a route shield on the guide sign. If used, the pictograph shall be located to the left of the destination legend it represents

A pictograph representing a state, county, or municipal corporation or other incorporated or unincorporated community shall not be displayed on a Supplemental Guide sign.

Pictographs shall otherwise comply with the provisions of EPG 903.1.5.

903.5.50 Community Interchanges Identification Signs (E9-4 and E9-5) (MUTCD Section 2E.52)

Support. For suburban or rural communities served by three or more interchanges, Community Interchanges Identification (E9-4 and E9-5) signs reduce the amount of information displayed on the Interchange Advance guide and Exit Direction signs by eliminating repetition of the same destinations for separate interchanges.

Guidance. In these cases, the name of the community followed by the word EXITS should be displayed on the top line; the lines below should display the destination, road name or route number, and the corresponding distances to the nearest ¼ mile.

The sign should be located in advance of the first Interchange Advance guide sign for the first interchange within the community (see Figure 903.5.50.2).

The legend displayed on the Interchange Advance guide and Exit Direction signs for each interchange should be consistent with the interchange names displayed on the Community Interchanges Identification sign. The name of the community displayed on the Community Interchanges Identification signs should be omitted from the legends of the Interchange Advance guide and Exit Direction signs.

Standard. The amount of destinations listed shall not exceed three.

Interchange exit numbers shall not be shown on Community Interchange Identification signs.

Option. If interchanges are not conveniently identifiable or if there are more than three interchanges to be identified, the Next Exits sign (see EPG 903.5.51) may be used.

903.5.51 Next Exits Signs (E9-3 and E9-3a) (MUTCD Section 2E.53)

Support. Many freeways or expressways pass through historical or recreational regions, or urban areas served by a succession of several interchanges.

Option. Such regions or areas may be indicated by a Next Exits (E9-3 or E9-3a) sign located in advance of the Advance guide sign or signs for the first interchange.

Guidance. The sign legend should identify the region or area followed by the words NEXT XX EXITS.

The legend displayed on the Interchange Advance guide and Exit Direction signs for each interchange should not display the region or area name that is displayed on the Next Exits sign.

903.5.52 Weigh Station Signing (MUTCD Section 2E.54)

Support. Independent facilities or areas have been added along many highways where certain commercial vehicles are directed to stop to be weighed or inspected. These areas are sometimes permanent, such as in a roadside area, or temporary mobile facilities deployed along the roadway.

The general concept for signing permanent Weigh Stations is similar to Rest Area signing (see EGP 903.9.5) because in both cases traffic using either area remains within the highway right-of-way.

Standard. The standard sequence of signs for a Weigh Station on an expressway or freeway shall include four basic signs (see Figure 903.5.52):

A. An Advance Weigh Station Distance (D8-1) sign with the distance 1 MILE displayed,

B. An Advance Weigh Station Distance (D8-1) sign with the distance ½ MILE displayed, or a Weigh Station Advance Direction (D8-2) sign,

C. A Weigh Station Entrance Direction (D8-3) sign, and

D. A Weigh Station Gore sign (with the same legend as the Entrance Direction (D8-3) sign).

If the weigh station uses a preclearance system, a WEIGH STATION PRECLEARANCE – ALL TRUCKS RIGHT LANE sign shall be used.

Option. When spacing of 1 mile and ½ mile are not practical for the D8-1 signs, the 1 MILE and ½ MILE distances on the D8-1 signs may be adjusted to match the spacing determined by engineering judgment.

Standard. A changeable legend display that displays either OPEN or CLOSED shall be included in the signing sequence to indicate when trucks are required to enter the weigh station.

Guidance. The required changeable legend display OPEN or CLOSED describe in the previous paragraph should be displayed within and at the bottom of the Weigh Station Advance Direction (D8-2) sign or the Advance Weigh Station Distance (D8-1) sign, or on a supplemental plaque or sign panel.

Support. An example of weigh station signing for use on freeways and expressways is shown in Figure 903.5.52.

903.5.53 Route Signs and Trailblazer Assemblies (MUTCD Section 2E.55)

Guidance. Route signs (see Figure 903.5.53) should be incorporated as cut-out shields or other distinctive shapes on large directional guide signs. Where the Interstate shield is displayed in an assembly or on the face of a guide sign with U.S. or State Route signs, the Interstate numeral should be at least equal in size to the numerals on the other Route signs. The use of independent Route signs should be limited primarily to route confirmation assemblies.

Route signs and auxiliary plaques showing junctions and turns should be used for guidance on approach roads, for route confirmation just beyond entrances and exits, and for reassurance along the freeway or expressway.

Only standard sizes should be used for guide signs and independent use.

Route shields should be placed before street names and destinations, usually in the first line of the legend.

Support. Shields are detailed in the standard plans. Numbered primary, U.S. and interstate route shields have two widths available for each type of mount: one for two-digit routes and one for three-digit routes.

A business plaque is available in the standard plans for independent use only.

Option. The standard Trailblazer Assembly (see EPG 903.4.30) may be used on roads leading to the freeway or expressway. Component messages of the Trailblazer Assembly may be incorporated into a single sign in accordance with the provisions of EPG 903.4.12. Independently-mounted Route signs may be used instead of Pull-Through signs as confirmation information.

The word “TO” may be used when a guide sign is acting similar to a trailblazer. Some turning movements for roadways may lead to a route, but they may also have other possible destinations.

Standard. The word “TO” shall only be used to trailblaze to a route, not a destination. The word “TO” shall be vertically centered on the shield and shall be placed before the shield to read properly.

When a conflict arises between “TO” and a cardinal direction on the left of a shield, place “TO” first (starting from left hand side), then the shield, then the cardinal direction.

903.5.54 Signing on Conventional Road Approaches and Connecting Roadways (MUTCD Section 2E.58)

Support. EPG 903.4.44 contains information regarding the signing on conventional roads on the approaches to interchanges and the signing on connecting roadways.

903.5.55 Wrong-Way Traffic Control at Interchange Ramps (MUTCD Section 2E.59)

Support. EPG 903.2.39 contains information regarding the use of regulatory signs to deter wrong-way movements at intersections of freeway or expressway ramps with conventional roads, and in the area where entrance ramps intersect with the mainline lanes.

903.5.56 Traffic Generator Signing

Support. MoDOT’s policy on signing for traffic generators is defined in the following rules and regulations. These regulations can be found under the Code of State Regulations Title 7, Division 10, Chapter 17 (7 CSR 10-17.010).

Standard. The Traffic Generator Program, along with other supplemental guide sign programs, is managed by a 3rd party contractor. Requests to participate in the Traffic Generator Program shall be forwarded to this 3rd party contractor for processing so they may do site reviews, evaluate eligibility and convey options to the perspective participant.

Support. There are select traffic generator style signs which remain MoDOT’s responsibility to install and maintain include:

Signing for Nationally Known / Nationally Prominent Historic Sites (see EPG 903.9.23).

Signing for Lakes over 7,000 acres (see EPG 903.5.57).

903.5.57 Supplemental Guide Signs for Lakes

Standard. For the purposes of interpretation of this policy, major lakes, bodies of water that are over 7,000 surface acres, shall qualify for signing at the Commission’s expense, see Table 903.5.57. No signing shall be provided for any individual site, building or event located within a larger signed area.

**Table 903.5.57** Missouri Lakes
Non-contractual Lakes
Bull Shoals Lake
Harry S Truman Lake
Lake of the Ozarks
Mark Twain Lake
Norfork Lake
Pomme de Terre Lake
Smithville Lake
Stockton Lake
Table Rock Lake
Thomas Hill Reservoir
Wappapello Lake

The signs shall comply with the provisions of EPG 903.5.49 except as provided below.

The signs shall only be installed on freeways or expressways wherever the direct routes serving the lake intersect, see Figure 903.5.57.

**Figure 903.5.57** Example of Supplemental Guide Signs for a Lake on a Freeway or Expressway

The signs shall be rectangular and have a white legend and border on a brown background.

If trailblazing signs are requested, the requesting agency shall be responsible for the participation fee for the trailblazing signs and shall comply with the provisions of EPG 903.13.

No pictograph shall be displayed on the signs.

903.5.58 Lane Reduction

Guidance. When a lane is dropped on a multi-lane, high-volume, high-speed roadway by merging lanes (lane not dropped at an interchange), at least two overhead advance signs should be used. The first sign should indicate the lane that ends and a distance.

The last sign should indicate the lane that ends and an action line.

These signs should be black legend on fluorescent yellow background and placed over the lane that is ending. These signs should have 12 in. series E Modified letters, all upper-case.

Support. For example, the first line may read RIGHT LANE ENDS. The second line should provide a distance in feet or mileage such as "1000 FT" or "1/2 MILE". When sufficient distance is available, two advance distance signs are provided at 1 mile and 1/2 mile.

Another example, the first line states RIGHT LANE ENDS, and the second line may read "MERGE LEFT".

For typical 4-lane to 2-lane reductions see EPG 903.15.

903.5.59 Signing for Route Termination

Standard. In advance of the termination of any route, a sign shall be installed to indicate the route ends and all traffic must exit. The sign shall include the shield of the route, which terminates with a relevant text message, such as “ALL VEHICLES MUST EXIT”.

903.5.60 Signing for Route Name Change

Standard. In advance of the location where a route name changes, a sign shall be erected indicating “(Rte. XXX) Ends Continue on (Rte. YYY)”.

Guidance. If Route XXX and YYY use different cardinal directions, then they should be included as modifiers to the route shields.

Support. For termination of conventional roads see EPG 903.4.20.

903.5.61 Crossroad Guide Sign

Support. The Crossroad Guide (E8 series) sign is used on a crossroad to provide destination and direction for traffic entering an expressway or freeway.

Guidance. The destination used should be a control city (see Table 903.5.7) for interstate routes.