This is about things your state or province (or even country), you like, and would like to see applied in other places as well.
As much as I bitch about IDOT (as you all know well), I do like their reflectorization along the roadways. IDOT usually puts 2 embedded reflectors in between every other gap between lane stripes on multi-lane roads such as freeways. I find this useful at night as the reflectors mimic the dashes for the lane striping, i.e. https://goo.gl/maps/VRZxhSqRC1U2
And this is done in IDOT District 1 (Schaumburg): D1 will try to mimic the lane striping on 2 lane roads as well. When there is a passing zone, you will see a reflector in every other gap between lanes lines: https://goo.gl/maps/hSJB5MC3wqt. When there is a double yellow line in the center for no passing from either direction, you have one reflector on each side of the stripes: https://goo.gl/maps/qeoKxf2cUGy. However, if the passing zone is only in one direction, the direction that can pass will see only one set of reflectors in every other gap between dashes; and the side with the no passing zone will see what appears to be a double yellow line: https://goo.gl/maps/DQwqDhzPJT92 and https://goo.gl/maps/4buvFsMRfA32.
Quote from: Brandon on November 07, 2015, 05:23:47 PM
This is about things your state or province (or even country), you like, and would like to see applied in other places as well.
As much as I bitch about IDOT (as you all know well), I do like their reflectorization along the roadways. IDOT usually puts 2 embedded reflectors in between every other gap between lane stripes on multi-lane roads such as freeways. I find this useful at night as the reflectors mimic the dashes for the lane striping, i.e. https://goo.gl/maps/VRZxhSqRC1U2
And this is done in IDOT District 1 (Schaumburg): D1 will try to mimic the lane striping on 2 lane roads as well. When there is a passing zone, you will see a reflector in every other gap between lanes lines: https://goo.gl/maps/hSJB5MC3wqt. When there is a double yellow line in the center for no passing from either direction, you have one reflector on each side of the stripes: https://goo.gl/maps/qeoKxf2cUGy. However, if the passing zone is only in one direction, the direction that can pass will see only one set of reflectors in every other gap between dashes; and the side with the no passing zone will see what appears to be a double yellow line: https://goo.gl/maps/DQwqDhzPJT92 and https://goo.gl/maps/4buvFsMRfA32.
I like Florida's ubiquitous use of reflectors
I like the concrete traffic light poles
I did like the colored US shields
Quote from: Brandon on November 07, 2015, 05:23:47 PM
IDOT usually puts 2 embedded reflectors in between every other gap between lane stripes on multi-lane roads such as freeways.
If they're going to put two reflectors between every other gap, why not just put them in
every gap between the lines? It's what they do here in AZ, among many other states. :confused:
Wisconsin: Banning red light cameras.
Left turn traffic signals flash a green arrow here. I don't know the standard now in the US, but I think this is neat. As well, the backplate of the traffic signal is a different colour (black versus yellow) than the regular traffic signals, to alert motorists that the traffic signal is for left turn. We don't have doghouse signals here, so that is what is done.
As well, there are a few of these 'Odometer Check Signs' scattered across the province.
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5641/20496816370_ca6327f15a_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/xeexpG)
Begin Odometer Check Sign (https://flic.kr/p/xeexpG) by Sign Geek (https://www.flickr.com/photos/135438121@N07/), on Flickr
Other than that though I'm afraid to admit that I dislike more things related to roads and signs in Manitoba than actually like and recommend.
As terrible as ODOT is, the one thing they did that I liked was the large-numbered "SPEED XX" signs. Way more legible than the standard MUTCD "SPEED LIMIT XX" signs used in the other 49 states. It looks like they'll be going the way of the dodo soon, though, as ODOT seems to be gradually liquidating the state MUTCD supplement.
If this topic was "Things your girlfriend does and you like", it would be a hell of a lot more interesting. Just Sayin'.
Things I like in Wisconsin:
Traffic signals at the stop line
4 lane expressways that bypass cities/towns and eliminate stops
Interchanges between freeways/expressways are mostly high speed, and the few that aren't are planned on being converted to high speed interchanges
As a previous commenter posted, red light/speed cameras are illegal
Quote from: pumpkineater2 on November 07, 2015, 11:53:09 PM
Quote from: Brandon on November 07, 2015, 05:23:47 PM
IDOT usually puts 2 embedded reflectors in between every other gap between lane stripes on multi-lane roads such as freeways.
If they're going to put two reflectors between every other gap, why not just put them in every gap between the lines? It's what they do here in AZ, among many other states. :confused:
Because it then mimics the lane stripes at night better, IMHO, than just one reflector in every gap.
Quote from: DaBigE on November 08, 2015, 12:45:32 AM
Wisconsin: Banning red light cameras.
Massachusetts, never allowing them in the first place.
(I am assuming WI had them and got rid of them)
WA -
Mostly logical State Route numbering system.
Using Roundabouts, in logical and consistent ways
Higher speeds on expressways
60MPH Speed limits on some rural highways (but not enough)
Slowing working on braiding interchanges with high traffic counts and short distances.
Quote from: SectorZ on November 08, 2015, 10:57:38 AM
Quote from: DaBigE on November 08, 2015, 12:45:32 AM
Wisconsin: Banning red light cameras.
Massachusetts, never allowing them in the first place.
(I am assuming WI had them and got rid of them)
IIRC, Wisconsin has never had them nor have they ever been legal.
Quote from: SectorZ on November 08, 2015, 10:57:38 AM
Quote from: DaBigE on November 08, 2015, 12:45:32 AM
Wisconsin: Banning red light cameras.
Massachusetts, never allowing them in the first place.
(I am assuming WI had them and got rid of them)
As of March 2011, eight states have banned them. That means they once had red light cameras (nine you include New Jersey, as they were up for a year before being turned off).
The region I'm originally from, Long Island, has a system of parkway signage where each parkway is given a letter or two to identify (e.g. N from Northern Parkway, M for Meadowbrook Parkway, SO for Southern Parkway, SA for Sagtikos Parkway, etc.). It would be great to see that carried over to New York City, where most of the parkways have no route shields at all.
I like the way IL does traffic signals. At least 90% of the time, there's a signal on the far left side of the road, which helps visibility, especially in bright sunshine. There are always at least two signals for straight traffic and at least two for any left turn phases. IL also doesn't use doghouses. I much prefer the 5-tall columns, although they serve the exact same purpose. Spanwires are only used as temporaries (although Tinley's 175th and Oak Park has been spanwire since at least 2007).
Quote from: noelbotevera on November 08, 2015, 12:09:13 PM
Quote from: SectorZ on November 08, 2015, 10:57:38 AM
Quote from: DaBigE on November 08, 2015, 12:45:32 AM
Wisconsin: Banning red light cameras.
Massachusetts, never allowing them in the first place.
(I am assuming WI had them and got rid of them)
As of March 2011, eight states have banned them. That means they once had red light cameras (nine you include New Jersey, as they were up for a year before being turned off).
New Jersey allowed red light cameras for 5 years before the trial period ended. NJDOT now has a year to issue a report on their findings regarding the effectiveness of those cameras. It's not exactly been rushed...we're approaching the 11 month mark, and there's been nary a hint of the report. Dec. 12 will be a year.
West Virginia -- using state names on interstate route markers.
Citing my former residence in North Carolina (while attending Duke from 1995 to 1998, though the signs in question are still used):
Signs using the imperative "Reduce Speed Ahead" instead of "Reduced Speed Ahead." It's the speed LIMIT that's reduced, not the "speed." Whether the "speed" is reduced depends on the individual driver, or on traffic as a whole, and not on the number posted on a sign.
New York State DOT's almost perfect BGS format/layouts in total contrast to California's messed up, disorganized sign formats.
Also New York's traffic light standard that prohibits having a green ball to the left of a left-turn signal arrow head, unlike New Jersey and California who do use that potentially confusing practice.
Arizona:
- Logo signs in urban areas (since 2013)
- Freeway travel times on dynamic message signs
- Heavy use of Stimsonite reflectors, even in the snowy parts of the state (which in those portions they are in recessed pockets in the road)
- Very few (if any) cloverleaf interchanges
For Illinois, the use of three line distance signs on rural interstates, with the next exit on the first line, next regional city on the second line, and a national control city on the bottom line. Much nicer than the many states which only use two line distance signs.
Quote from: dgolub on November 08, 2015, 01:14:07 PM
The region I'm originally from, Long Island, has a system of parkway signage where each parkway is given a letter or two to identify (e.g. N from Northern Parkway, M for Meadowbrook Parkway, SO for Southern Parkway, SA for Sagtikos Parkway, etc.). It would be great to see that carried over to New York City, where most of the parkways have no route shields at all.
That's nice, but I've always liked the green on white NYS shields of the Upstate New York Parkways. The oval-shaped Grand Central Parkway shield is something I'd like to see for the parkways of New York City.
Quote from: Revive 755 on November 08, 2015, 10:42:53 PM
For Illinois, the use of three line distance signs on rural interstates, with the next exit on the first line, next regional city on the second line, and a national control city on the bottom line. Much nicer than the many states which only use two line distance signs.
Arizona uses three lines as well, at least on the Interstates. I know on I-40 east of Holbrook, the first line is the next exit, the second line is Gallup, and the third is the control city (Albuquerque).
WisDOT - Concrete as S.O.P. on new and upgraded freeways and expressways.
Mike
NJ: Not allowing any state route to have the same number as a US highway or Interstate. Reduces confusion when you talk about a route.
The Jughandle is something that once you're used to it becomes great.
High speed traffic circle.
I like that WisDOT has been aggressively implementing roundabouts in this century. This is forcing people to get used to them and improving driver performance at these intersections statewide.
I like how UDOT is an early adapter for better service interchange designs.
I like how New Mexico has shit-canned useless US highways and doesn't even sign the pointless concurrencies that remain.
My favorite things about California, mostly because I'm used to it:
- Freeway Entrance signs with the downward pointing arrows.
- Using the state named Interstate shields.
- Cut-out US highway shields.
- I like the exit numbers not being on a separate tab or across the top of a BGS.
- A bit pointless, but I like the use of city limit signs with the population and elevation.
The main thing I like that Indiana did was number the state highways in a grid.
Doing California and Connecticut (comparable time in each state)
California:
* frequent use of "more than the minimum" interchange ramp configurations (e.g. parclo A4 instead of diamond)
* occasional use of grade separation and interchanges on non-freeway routes
* freeway mainline continuity: fewer left exits, and more 4-way interchanges over 3-ways or doglegs
* occasional sign goofs revealing unsigned routes (114, 221, etc.)
Connecticut:
* better signage (exit tabs outside main panel; sign panels sized and laid out appropriately for content)
* denser signed highway network -- more things to see in a shorter distance
* good job of signing overlaps -- main omission is US 6 over I-84 through Hartford area
NJ:
Does full service gas count?
Maryland:
Their "lane ends" signs:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fupload.wikimedia.org%2Fwikipedia%2Fcommons%2Fthumb%2F5%2F5e%2FMDSHA_W9-2%25282%2529.svg%2F289px-MDSHA_W9-2%25282%2529.svg.png&hash=594d99184ee558e00b38493da00513a664d9ff2f)
Things that I like about Alabama are the state-name interstate shields and Clearview on the BGSes and LGSes (though I'm not entirely sure if they still use it).
Quote from: cabiness42 on November 10, 2015, 07:48:58 AM
The main thing I like that Indiana did was number the state highways in a grid.
I like the Florida grid. And long distance diagonals being x00.
Quote from: freebrickproductions on November 10, 2015, 12:39:22 PM
Things that I like about Alabama are the state-name interstate shields and Clearview on the BGSes and LGSes (though I'm not entirely sure if they still use it).
I prefer non-Clearview, but I won't make a big deal out of it. The occasional CV sign in Alabama is interesting, but I guess I'd despise it if it replaced an old slatted or button-copy sign.
Likes: Fairly consistent signage compared to most states (probably not Michigan or Texas or North Carolina, but better than Georgia, Florida, Rhode Island, and New Mexico)
Fair speed limits (i.e. they don't lower 30 mph in the space of 500 feet, and they're not placed miles away from city limits (cough, Tennessee).
The narrower-spec US route shields
Michigan:
Blinking red ball left turn light (being replaced by flashing yellow left arrow)
signs posted on all divided highways showing how to turn left via a Michigan left in the median at all cross streets.
posting "Emergency" routes for all freeways and other routes.
Minnesota:
Flashing Yellow Arrows at most new intersections
One signal per lane with one on each post on either side and all on masts.
Lighting at both entrances and exits at just about every rural interchange
Modern rest areas on major non-interstate routes
Louisiana:
-For the most part, signing of highways and signing of concurrencies
-4 laned major US routes/ cross-state routes (TIMED program)
-logical control cities on interstates (all but one)
-I like the old 3di US routes on a 2di shield. Still plenty of US 171/US 190 examples in the field
-a rough grid for the routes 1-24
Louisiana
LADODT doesn't skimp on pavement reflectors, especially on freeways. Interstate signage has gotten much better in the last decade or so.
I wish they would adopt arrow per lane though where freeways/highways split though.
I driven in CO. twice now, I like the way their highways are signed.
Quote from: SteveG1988 on November 09, 2015, 12:08:13 AM
NJ: Not allowing any state route to have the same number as a US highway or Interstate. Reduces confusion when you talk about a route.
Also, 500 series county routes are really cool.
Quote from: D-Dey65 on November 08, 2015, 10:48:42 PM
Quote from: dgolub on November 08, 2015, 01:14:07 PM
The region I'm originally from, Long Island, has a system of parkway signage where each parkway is given a letter or two to identify (e.g. N from Northern Parkway, M for Meadowbrook Parkway, SO for Southern Parkway, SA for Sagtikos Parkway, etc.). It would be great to see that carried over to New York City, where most of the parkways have no route shields at all.
That's nice, but I've always liked the green on white NYS shields of the Upstate New York Parkways. The oval-shaped Grand Central Parkway shield is something I'd like to see for the parkways of New York City.
Yeah, that would be cool, too. There's been a proposal from NYCDOT and NYSDOT to install standardized signs similar to Long Island but with different artwork. So far, nothing much has happened with that.
Colorado: long merging lanes entering major highways at grade. At signalized intersections near where I live, I can enter U.S. 50 (a 65 mph expressway) even when the cross-street traffic has a red indication. Example: https://www.google.com/maps/@38.3357122,-104.7446958,161m/data=!3m1!1e3
I really like how Wisconsin marks its county highways and the 'County' shields that are generally used here. They are light years better than the MUTCD pentagons.
Mike
In my state its having only one tag on the rear of your vehicle.
The lack of yearly inspections on your motor vehicle.
The 70 mph speed limit.
The beaches are open all year round.
Here's a couple from PA I like:
The (signed) state highway numbering system pretty much mirrors the US Highway numbering system (which some exceptions).
PennDOT's use of Clearview is nice. PTC is a different story.
Driver services don't require a trip to the DMV. Lots of local businesses are licensed to provide driver services.
And on that same token, vehicle inspections are handled private mechanics (although that can also be bad depending on the mechanic).
Quote from: dgolub on November 11, 2015, 07:00:18 PM
Quote from: SteveG1988 on November 09, 2015, 12:08:13 AM
NJ: Not allowing any state route to have the same number as a US highway or Interstate. Reduces confusion when you talk about a route.
Also, 500 series county routes are really cool.
I do know of one 6xx county route number that's also an Interstate. CR 676 (Mantua Blvd in Mantua Twp) is the same as I-676 (thru Camden).
Quote from: jeffandnicole on November 12, 2015, 03:20:15 PM
Quote from: dgolub on November 11, 2015, 07:00:18 PM
Quote from: SteveG1988 on November 09, 2015, 12:08:13 AM
NJ: Not allowing any state route to have the same number as a US highway or Interstate. Reduces confusion when you talk about a route.
Also, 500 series county routes are really cool.
I do know of one 6xx county route number that's also an Interstate. CR 676 (Mantua Blvd in Mantua Twp) is the same as I-676 (thru Camden).
however, there is no CR 676 in Camden County, so it's consistent with only requiring 600-series numbers to be unique within the county.
Quote from: D-Dey65 on November 08, 2015, 10:48:42 PM
Quote from: dgolub on November 08, 2015, 01:14:07 PM
The region I'm originally from, Long Island, has a system of parkway signage where each parkway is given a letter or two to identify (e.g. N from Northern Parkway, M for Meadowbrook Parkway, SO for Southern Parkway, SA for Sagtikos Parkway, etc.). It would be great to see that carried over to New York City, where most of the parkways have no route shields at all.
That's nice, but I've always liked the green on white NYS shields of the Upstate New York Parkways. The oval-shaped Grand Central Parkway shield is something I'd like to see for the parkways of New York City.
I agree. Any limited access highway should have some type of shield. Ideally all the Parkways should be numbered, but at least a trailblazer makes it easier to follow the road.
New York State's reference marker system. Every point on the state highway system can be uniquely identified. You can tell where you are, which way you're going, how long until you get there, every county line, every city line, and even the history of how the road evolved, all in 80 square inches.
Quote from: dgolub on November 08, 2015, 01:14:07 PM
The region I'm originally from, Long Island, has a system of parkway signage where each parkway is given a letter or two to identify (e.g. N from Northern Parkway, M for Meadowbrook Parkway, SO for Southern Parkway, SA for Sagtikos Parkway, etc.). It would be great to see that carried over to New York City, where most of the parkways have no route shields at all.
That is happening, supposedly. The Henry Hudson Parkway has already received this treatment.
iPhone
Quote from: ekt8750 on November 12, 2015, 02:34:19 PM
Here's a couple from PA I like:
The (signed) state highway numbering system pretty much mirrors the US Highway numbering system (which some exceptions).
PennDOT's use of Clearview is nice. PTC is a different story.
Driver services don't require a trip to the DMV. Lots of local businesses are licensed to provide driver services.
And on that same token, vehicle inspections are handled private mechanics (although that can also be bad depending on the mechanic).
I'd rather have the DMV handle the inspection and the titling services. You have to pay someone on top of DMV's fees in PA, and everything has to be notarized. The inspection prices for something that has to be done annually are outrageous compared to states where the DMV does the inspection or the prices are capped by law (many of these states also only require emissions tests every other year). You also have to pay the state $5 for a sticker to say your car passed inspection (kind of like the colonial stamp tax charged by the British)
Quote from: SignBridge on November 08, 2015, 08:58:24 PM
New York State DOT's almost perfect BGS format/layouts in total contrast to California's messed up, disorganized sign formats.
Also New York's traffic light standard that prohibits having a green ball to the left of a left-turn signal arrow head, unlike New Jersey and California who do use that potentially confusing practice.
I'm also liking NYSDOT Region 10's (and maybe more?) recent practice of black backplates with reflective yellow outlining on newly installed or redone signalized intersections.
Quote from: SignBridge on November 08, 2015, 08:58:24 PM
Also New York's traffic light standard that prohibits having a green ball to the left of a left-turn signal arrow head, unlike New Jersey and California who do use that potentially confusing practice.
So how does New York handling signals near curves to the right with restricted visibility? In cases similar to this one on US 61/US 67 in the St. Louis area, (https://www.google.com/maps/@38.4935341,-90.3455183,3a,41.9y,32.15h,84.77t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1saaIHNm31nQhTYzy0fPNLzQ!2e0!7i13312!8i6656?hl=en) a near left head for the through movement are nice.
If the through left signal head is out of the cone of view for the left turning motorists, it creates no confusion.
In Clark, NJ on Raritan Road we had it for years at Central Avenue.
In Kissimmee and Orlando here in Florida we have some that have them on the left and it works well even with the permissive turns.
Nyratk1, NYSDOT tends to shoot itself in the foot with their backplates for several reasons. I agree they look good with the yellow reflective outline. However their using backplates on span-wire hung signal heads is bad because it makes them sway more in the wind. The backplate is like a "sail". And the MUTCD actually discourages this practice.
Secondly, backplates do not fare well in the Northeast I believe because of the cold winters. They are made of plastic and they crack and break off when they get older. You'll see, all these new ones they've installed lately will fall apart and look terrible several years from now.
Revive and Roadman, New York manges to handle that right-hand curve issue satisfactorily. Because we mostly have diagonal span configuration, the thru signal-heads are seen sooner than with typical mast-arm mounting, which reduces the need for a near-left supplemental thru-traffic signal-head.
On Michigan Street at Division Avenue in Orlando, it was a span wire for years and they still had near side signal heads on the spans.
It does not matter with span wire or mast arm you can still conjure up something!
BTW John Young Parkway S Bound at Chancellor Drive in Orlando could use one of those left side mounted signal heads, but has not yet. So far it works well with its hidden intersection.
Quote from: SignBridge on November 15, 2015, 10:27:57 PM
Nyratk1, NYSDOT tends to shoot itself in the foot with their backplates for several reasons. I agree they look good with the yellow reflective outline. However their using backplates on span-wire hung signal heads is bad because it makes them sway more in the wind. The backplate is like a "sail". And the MUTCD actually discourages this practice.
Secondly, backplates do not fare well in the Northeast I believe because of the cold winters. They are made of plastic and they crack and break off when they get older. You'll see, all these new ones they've installed lately will fall apart and look terrible several years from now.
Florida seems to be putting the backplates with yellow reflective outlines as signals are replaced, including the span wires. The new span wire mounts are supposed to be much stronger and I can't say I noticed more swaying with them even though we frequently get strong winds (actually, its less, the newer span wire mounts are significantly stronger then the old ones and don't sway like the older ones).
Speaking of signals and span wires, I'll chime in with something I like about my state of Indiana. Nearly all of the span wire intersections with traffic signals have wires holding the signal up from the top and bottom (whereas most other places I've been to have them only at the top, allowing them to drop down a little.) To me this makes the traffic signals look more cleaned up and even if it is wires the signals are all at the same level at the intersection. I think I've heard that this is done elsewhere but I can't remember.
Quote from: SignBridge on November 15, 2015, 10:27:57 PM
Nyratk1, NYSDOT tends to shoot itself in the foot with their backplates for several reasons. I agree they look good with the yellow reflective outline. However their using backplates on span-wire hung signal heads is bad because it makes them sway more in the wind. The backplate is like a "sail". And the MUTCD actually discourages this practice.
Secondly, backplates do not fare well in the Northeast I believe because of the cold winters. They are made of plastic and they crack and break off when they get older. You'll see, all these new ones they've installed lately will fall apart and look terrible several years from now.
We have them here in Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, same winter, maybe even colder, and they fare just fine.
Quote from: Sam on November 13, 2015, 09:04:46 PM
New York State's reference marker system. Every point on the state highway system can be uniquely identified. You can tell where you are, which way you're going, how long until you get there, every county line, every city line, and even the history of how the road evolved, all in 80 square inches.
As a kid I used to try to read those aloud in a teeny-tiny voice and substitute my own gibberish for the exact mileage and designation, and what not.
But anyhow, one other thing that New York did which I've liked (and still do), is that they have the college symbol signs. Everywhere else, it seems illegal. Once MUTCD started requiring more logos to replace words, New York was a little more willing to create signs like that.
Tdindy88, a span-wire installation if properly built will have all the signal heads at the same level, by using different lengths of hardware to attach to the wire. That's how New York DOT and Nassau County DPW build them on Long Island. And neither uses the bottom "tether wire".
Brandon, that's very interesting about the backplates in the upper mid-western states. Are you saying they do not break off and disappear, or that they are promptly replaced when that happens, which is not done by New York DOT Region-10 on Long Island. Once ours are gone, they are not routinely replaced.
Quote from: SignBridge on November 16, 2015, 07:23:09 PM
Tdindy88, a span-wire installation if properly built will have all the signal heads at the same level, by using different lengths of hardware to attach to the wire. That's how New York DOT and Nassau County DPW build them on Long Island. And neither uses the bottom "tether wire".
Brandon, that's very interesting about the backplates in the upper mid-western states. Are you saying they do not break off and disappear, or that they are promptly replaced when that happens, which is not done by New York DOT Region-10 on Long Island. Once ours are gone, they are not routinely replaced.
That is a good question about CalTrans Signals. They seem to not have missing ones. Does all the road agencies in the Golden State Promptly replace missing backplates when they become broken, as GSV shows none with pieces missing or completely missing anyplace.
Then again I never virtually clinched every signalized intersection in the state, but when I was there in 1988, it seemed all was plated so to say! In Florida you will find many missing and some with parts blown off of it, or have fallen off of them, which leads me to believe that could happen elsewhere backplates are including Illinois where recently I have seen missing ones just like home.
Quote from: Mdcastle on November 10, 2015, 07:20:19 PM
Minnesota:
Flashing Yellow Arrows at most new intersections
One signal per lane with one on each post on either side and all on masts.
Lighting at both entrances and exits at just about every rural interchange
Modern rest areas on major non-interstate routes
Large visible green guide signs on stoplight mast arms is another thing I realize I don't see many other places that I like here.
Quote from: SignBridgeBrandon, that's very interesting about the backplates in the upper mid-western states. Are you saying they do not break off and disappear, or that they are promptly replaced when that happens, which is not done by New York DOT Region-10 on Long Island. Once ours are gone, they are not routinely replaced.
Speaking for Minnesota, they generally DON'T break off. And Minnesota winters are much colder than New York's...
Quote from: SteveG1988 on November 09, 2015, 12:08:13 AM
The Jughandle is something that once you're used to it becomes great.
I used to like those jughandles. Later on in life I realized they weren't so great.
Another thing New York does that I really like is rounding off the corners of the BGSes, rather than leaving square corners sticking out beyond the white border.
Quote from: Sam on December 17, 2015, 05:56:25 AM
Another thing New York does that I really like is rounding off the corners of the BGSes, rather than leaving square corners sticking out beyond the white border.
Seems like this is common in states that don't use corrugated guide signs, NC and FL being a couple of other examples.
NY and SC also don't push the right/left edges of the exit tabs even with the main guide sign, instead stopping at the beginning of the white rounded border. I personally don't like this.
Ohio:
- I like the state-shaped state route marker
- 70mph speed limit (finally)
- They allow you to keep your license plate even if it is several generations older
Quote from: jbnati27 on December 17, 2015, 08:15:56 AM
- 70mph speed limit (finally)
This is also what I like about Florida better than New York. Many of the people I know from New York are amazed that you're allowed to drive that fast.
I don't think it's fast enough.
Wriddle082, NYS DOT's Region-10 on Long Island does have some BGS's with the exit tab aligned with the right edge of the main panel which I think looks ridiculous. In a previous discussion some thought it was either an engineering or contractor's error.
Ohio -- My Former State:
- Intersections where I-, US- and/or OH- routes come together are well marked -- in advance AND at the intersection.
- County lines are well marked (bonus points when off the freeways, the signs will tell you the county you're entering AND the county you're leaving).
Colorado -- My current state:
- The most colorful state route markers in the country
- On most numbered highways in the open, speed limits are kept as high as possible, while only reducing speeds in the immediate areas where hazards are present (curves, hills, narrow lanes,...)
- Excellent signing in advance of and at most roundabouts
Quote from: D-Dey65 on December 20, 2015, 07:57:58 PM
This is also what I like about Florida better than New York. Many of the people I know from New York are amazed that you're allowed to drive that fast. I don't think it's fast enough.
In fact, FL now even has a few urban highways with 70 mph speed limits, with most of the Central Florida GreeneWay and the Western Beltway now with 70 mph speed limits.
Quote from: SignBridge on November 15, 2015, 10:27:57 PM
Nyratk1, NYSDOT tends to shoot itself in the foot with their backplates for several reasons. I agree they look good with the yellow reflective outline. However their using backplates on span-wire hung signal heads is bad because it makes them sway more in the wind. The backplate is like a "sail". And the MUTCD actually discourages this practice.
Secondly, backplates do not fare well in the Northeast I believe because of the cold winters. They are made of plastic and they crack and break off when they get older. You'll see, all these new ones they've installed lately will fall apart and look terrible several years from now.
Alright, I'll chime in here:
NYSDOT has really cut back on its use of span wire in much of the state in the past few years. Most newer installations are on mast arms. Much of New England has backplates and those work just fine. Heck, NYSDOT has been using backplates exclusively for a couple of years and those are fine.
Quote from: Brandon on November 16, 2015, 06:31:14 AM
We have them here in Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, same winter, maybe even colder, and they fare just fine.
Tell that to the Adirondacks. They have backplates and they're routinely the coldest place in the lower 48.
Back on topic, I like the signage for blanket speed limits in New York. Reduces the need to place a bunch of signs.
Quote from: thenetwork on December 20, 2015, 10:53:47 PM
Ohio -- My Former State:
- Intersections where I-, US- and/or OH- routes come together are well marked -- in advance AND at the intersection.
• County lines are well marked (bonus points when off the freeways, the signs will tell you the county you're entering AND the county you're leaving).
Very true. I like both of those, too. I remember when Ohio used to tell you the county you're entering AND the county you're leaving on the freeways as well. North Carolina also does this when you're off the freeways, by the way.
Indiana has signage just like the ones in Ohio and the new extension of Interstate 69 uses them as well, though I think that's just INDOT being cheap as the standard county line signs on interstates just have the county name.
Yes, it's true NYSDOT is using many more mast-arm mounted TSL's in recent years and I applaud them for that. So okay, can anyone tell me a reason why NYSDOT's backplates break and fall off after some years of use on span-wire hung signals. Maybe they use really poor quality backplates?
Quote from: SignBridge on December 21, 2015, 07:51:50 PM
Yes, it's true NYSDOT is using many more mast-arm mounted TSL's in recent years and I applaud them for that. So okay, can anyone tell me a reason why NYSDOT's backplates break and fall off after some years of use on span-wire hung signals. Maybe they use really poor quality backplates?
I don't know what you're talking about. Per GSV, R5 put some up on US 20 east of Buffalo no later than 2007 and they're still standing. They no longer remain facing the side street, but they still exist facing US 20.
Ontario does what we call continuity lines (the line striping between an exiting or ending lane and the mainline lanes) very well:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.asphaltplanet.ca%2FON%2Fhwy_407-409_images%2F407E%2F2015%2F12-Dec%2F407E_cl_113_east_EB_t_Dec15.jpg&hash=087d275fd2134e06572ce50edef1028b15162293)
http://www.asphaltplanet.ca/ON/hwy_407-409_images/407E/2015/12-Dec/407E_cl_113_east_EB_t_Dec15_24x16.jpg
Cl94, I was talking about backplates in Region-10 on Long Island. A lot were put up by NYS DOT in the 1990's that just fell apart piece-by-piece and disappeared over the years. Just don't exist anymore, unlike in say California where they seem to last forever..... That's why I assumed it was climate related.
Quote from: AsphaltPlanet on December 21, 2015, 09:58:57 PM
Ontario does what we call continuity lines (the line striping between an exiting or ending lane and the mainline lanes) very well:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.asphaltplanet.ca%2FON%2Fhwy_407-409_images%2F407E%2F2015%2F12-Dec%2F407E_cl_113_east_EB_t_Dec15.jpg&hash=087d275fd2134e06572ce50edef1028b15162293)
http://www.asphaltplanet.ca/ON/hwy_407-409_images/407E/2015/12-Dec/407E_cl_113_east_EB_t_Dec15_24x16.jpg
I'd put pavement arrows for the last hundred meters or so, to signify the lane ends. It would be more like extra insurance so that people get the message to change lanes or that the lane is ending.
Quote from: noelbotevera on December 22, 2015, 06:07:55 PM
Quote from: AsphaltPlanet on December 21, 2015, 09:58:57 PM
Ontario does what we call continuity lines (the line striping between an exiting or ending lane and the mainline lanes) very well:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.asphaltplanet.ca%2FON%2Fhwy_407-409_images%2F407E%2F2015%2F12-Dec%2F407E_cl_113_east_EB_t_Dec15.jpg&hash=087d275fd2134e06572ce50edef1028b15162293)
http://www.asphaltplanet.ca/ON/hwy_407-409_images/407E/2015/12-Dec/407E_cl_113_east_EB_t_Dec15_24x16.jpg
I'd put pavement arrows for the last hundred meters or so, to signify the lane ends. It would be more like extra insurance so that people get the message to change lanes or that the lane is ending.
Unnecessary. Continuity lines mean the same thing in Canada and in the US. Continuity lines are for a lane ending or an exit only lane. Most people in places with them know what they mean and, in heavy traffic, you can actually see them.
It can be hard to tell which lane is which in certain circumstances though. For example, in Rochester there's a two lane exit ramp with an option lane branching off. Region 4 put continuity lines in between the two lanes, and from pavement markings alone, it's hard to tell which lane is which. The signage isn't great here either.
https://www.google.com/maps/@43.1441075,-77.5527718,3a,75y,136.65h,78.48t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s64C8XIzwmZgyoYXXGDdMMw!2e0!7i13312!8i6656
Alas, they're hard to see in the street view as NYSDOT and NYSTA tend to draw them over the existing pavement markings and they fade faster for some reason.
Chiming in from a school computer:
PA Turnpike likes to put names on their exits. I prefer them over control cities, and if they aren't clear enough, they'll throw in control cities.
Distance signs have the same cities from control cities (for example, US 22/322 north of Harrisburg have the control cities of State College and Lewistown. A couple miles later, there's a sign with Lewistown 53 and State College 83).
Quote from: TheHighwayMan394 on December 04, 2015, 08:19:12 PM
Quote from: Mdcastle on November 10, 2015, 07:20:19 PM
Minnesota:
Flashing Yellow Arrows at most new intersections
One signal per lane with one on each post on either side and all on masts.
Lighting at both entrances and exits at just about every rural interchange
Modern rest areas on major non-interstate routes
Large visible green guide signs on stoplight mast arms is another thing I realize I don't see many other places that I like here.
Stoplight mast flashers warning you of approaching emergency vehicles (and also approaching trains if the road is adjacent to a rail crossing).
If anyone else didn't say:
Missouri stating the state name if the city is in another state. Example: I-72 E, Springfield, IL.
I like how Wisconsin has letters instead of numbers for their county highways. It makes it a lot easier to distinguish between state and county highways. The letters also allow counties to name county highways after roads or things in the area.
Examples:
County CA in Appleton: College Ave
County HS in Howard-Suamico is named because it goes through both communities
County GV in Brown Co. connects County G and County V
It also allows to get intersections like those :sombrero::
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FVD9p01X.png&hash=0c35226b7bb355aae031f7f5df72456380bcd88f)
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/716/22736130955_a42e84ec8b_z_d.jpg)
Quote from: TheHighwayMan394 on December 26, 2015, 11:23:19 AM
Stoplight mast flashers warning you of approaching emergency vehicles.
Most emergency vehicle pre-emption systems have these confirmation beacons. Although for some reason, the beacons in Massachusetts are clear instead of red.
Quote from: CNGL-Leudimin on January 07, 2016, 06:00:28 PM
It also allows to get intersections like those :sombrero::
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FVD9p01X.png&hash=0c35226b7bb355aae031f7f5df72456380bcd88f)
That one has been seen here once or twice before! LOL
Oregon's speed limits are both a blessing and a curse. The defaults on highways (for now, changing in some places in I believe March, thank goodness; not urban) are 65 for interstates and 55 for other highways. While yes, that is pretty slow, there is one good thing I've noticed. Highways are almost never posted below that. The entirety of I-84 from Troutdale to the Idaho border is 65. Despite many hilly and curvy sections, including the infamous Cabbage Hill. In many other states like Washington or Idaho, some of these would probably drop to 60 or 55.
Same could be said for non-freeways. While 55 can be painfully slow on many of them, I've seen plenty of 2 lane highways in Idaho and Washington that drop to 50 or 45 when the road becomes more windy. This is annoying to me, because I can still hit 55+ fine on the straightaways in these areas. In Oregon, it stays 55 even in places where people aren't going to hit those speeds (one good example is US-197 climbing out of Maupin on the south side).
I think a big reason it's like this is they have the Basic Speed Rule (http://www.oregonlaws.org/ors/811.100) and trust the drivers to follow that to stay at an appropriate speed (I assume most states have rules somewhat like this though, but I'm only familiar with Oregon's). I do appreciate ODOT for not reducing speed limits from the defaults often, but it's ruined by the fact that the defaults are slow in the first place. We've made some progress on that front, but as of now the new law only applies to certain defined highways, and does not change the actual default speeds.
Quote from: roadman on January 08, 2016, 01:18:00 PM
Quote from: TheHighwayMan394 on December 26, 2015, 11:23:19 AM
Stoplight mast flashers warning you of approaching emergency vehicles.
Most emergency vehicle pre-emption systems have these confirmation beacons. Although for some reason, the beacons in Massachusetts are clear instead of red.
The ones in Illinois are also clear, not red.
Caltrans still using older, cutout-style shields. I fear the day when they switch to federal standard shields.
Quote from: brycecordry on January 06, 2016, 11:31:55 PM
If anyone else didn't say:
Missouri stating the state name if the city is in another state. Example: I-72 E, Springfield, IL.
I know I've seen this in a few other states. I think there are a few "Portland, OR" signs in California somewhere. I've also seen "Vancouver, WA" on some guide signs in Oregon. It is a nice practice, even if unnecessary most of the time.
Quote from: Quillz on January 08, 2016, 08:15:17 PM
Quote from: brycecordry on January 06, 2016, 11:31:55 PM
If anyone else didn't say:
Missouri stating the state name if the city is in another state. Example: I-72 E, Springfield, IL.
I know I've seen this in a few other states. I think there are a few "Portland, OR" signs in California somewhere. I've also seen "Vancouver, WA" on some guide signs in Oregon. It is a nice practice, even if unnecessary most of the time.
New England has to do it, examples such as Albany NY, Hartford CT, etc. The way I see it is a lot of New England states have same-named municipalities.
Quote from: Zeffy on January 08, 2016, 08:20:23 PM
Quote from: Quillz on January 08, 2016, 08:15:17 PM
Quote from: brycecordry on January 06, 2016, 11:31:55 PM
If anyone else didn't say:
Missouri stating the state name if the city is in another state. Example: I-72 E, Springfield, IL.
I know I've seen this in a few other states. I think there are a few "Portland, OR" signs in California somewhere. I've also seen "Vancouver, WA" on some guide signs in Oregon. It is a nice practice, even if unnecessary most of the time.
New England has to do it, examples such as Albany NY, Hartford CT, etc. The way I see it is a lot of New England states have same-named municipalities.
Yeah. There are 5 Manchesters, 4 Burlingtons, 4 Springfields, 4 Concords, 4 Salems, it keeps going. Include eastern New York in the mess and you have a 4th Hartford, 5th Salem, 5th Cambridge, 4th Lebanon...
Quote from: Quillz on January 08, 2016, 08:15:17 PM
Quote from: brycecordry on January 06, 2016, 11:31:55 PM
If anyone else didn't say:
Missouri stating the state name if the city is in another state. Example: I-72 E, Springfield, IL.
I know I've seen this in a few other states. I think there are a few "Portland, OR" signs in California somewhere. I've also seen "Vancouver, WA" on some guide signs in Oregon. It is a nice practice, even if unnecessary most of the time.
Washington labels BC a lot (and not just for the easily confused city at the north end of I-5), but I don't think it usually labels Oregon or Idaho. (I think there are some US 97 signs that say "Bend, Ore." though.)
I like the dots PennDOT uses sometimes. Pretty much in theory, it's a way to stop tailgating. I made a thread on those dots.
I like the Left Turn on Reds for one way streets in Florida. I say that cause in New Jersey it was not permitted.
However, how many people are aware that some states allow this practice. Most likely not too many.
Quote from: roadman65 on January 09, 2016, 08:53:56 PM
However, how many people are aware that some states allow this practice. Most likely not too many.
If you actually read other people's posts, you'd know that there are actually far more states that allow it than prohibit it.
Quick check of Wikipedia, while not necessarily 100% accurate, says SD, CT, MO, ME, NH, NJ, NC and RI are the only ones that prohibit it.
Quote from: Kacie Jane on January 09, 2016, 10:56:13 PM
Quote from: roadman65 on January 09, 2016, 08:53:56 PM
However, how many people are aware that some states allow this practice. Most likely not too many.
If you actually read other people's posts, you'd know that there are actually far more states that allow it than prohibit it.
Quick check of Wikipedia, while not necessarily 100% accurate, says SD, CT, MO, ME, NH, NJ, NC and RI are the only ones that prohibit it.
But that's not what he said. He asked how many people are aware it's allowed. Based on my observation living in a state where it's legal and regularly driving through a couple of intersections where it's allowed, I tend to agree that most drivers have no idea it's permitted, even though one of those intersections has a "No Turn on Red When Pedestrians Are Present" sign. If lefts on red weren't allowed, the sign wouldn't be needed, though I recognize that logic is probably too subtle for the average driver.
My apologies. I did read that wrong.
Though given how often the topic comes up on this board, readership here should be aware, even if generation driving public isn't. (Not a defense of my misreading, just a follow up.)
Left on red is legal in New York. Of course, there are few places this applies because NYC has a blanket prohibition. Troy is one big place with all of the one-way streets. There are a few "no turn on red except curb lane" in Columbus, OH for dual left turn lanes (https://www.google.com/maps/@39.9667883,-82.9970774,3a,29.5y,346.81h,90.66t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sMsoV5wp_BYLn09oSAvSDeg!2e0!7i13312!8i6656), so that implies that Ohio also allows them.
Edit: fixed hyperlink
Quote from: cl94 on January 10, 2016, 05:14:51 PM
Left on red is legal in New York. Of course, there are few places this applies because NYC has a blanket prohibition. Troy is one big place with all of the one-way streets. There are a few "no turn on red except curb lane" in Columbus, OH for dual left turn lanes, so that implies that Ohio also allows them.
(https://www.google.com/maps/@39.9667883,-82.9970774,3a,29.5y,346.81h,90.66t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sMsoV5wp_BYLn09oSAvSDeg!2e0!7i13312!8i6656)
Though as a result, you have the excitement of seeing "Left on red permitted after stop" signage now and then in NYC.
Elsewhere, yes, there are few chances to pull the maneuver; my whole life in Rochester, I can probably count on one hand the number of times I had the chance to do left on red and actually went through with it. (One of them involved a left turn onto one-way St. Paul St., which you can't do anymore as it's two-way now!)
Quote from: Kacie Jane on January 09, 2016, 11:39:42 PM
My apologies. I did read that wrong.
Though given how often the topic comes up on this board, readership here should be aware, even if generation driving public isn't. (Not a defense of my misreading, just a follow up.)
I'm a member of Generation Driving Public, and I'm aware of it.
I'm not convinced police here are aware of it, nor that the ones that are won't still use it as an excuse to pull you over and just see what you're up to.
putting turnarounds at freeway interchanges.
Quote from: texaskdog on January 11, 2016, 09:57:02 AM
putting turnarounds at freeway interchanges.
No longer my state, but New Jersey's "U-TURN" signs at exits are tremendously helpful.
Quote from: texaskdog on January 11, 2016, 09:57:02 AM
putting turnarounds at freeway interchanges.
On a similar note, Caltrans has been installing roundabouts at some exits, allowing the motorist to make a quick turnaround back onto the freeway if need be. The first one I drove on was at the 80/89 junction near Lake Tahoe.
Also, I don't live in Idaho, but I really like their practice of using two different color schemes for their state route shields. Guide signs have a black-on-white shield, while the independent shields are white-on-black. It's a completely unnecessary practice and probably costs the state more money than need be, but it's a cool little signage practice I've not seen anywhere else.
I'm not from Georgia, but I really like these overhead route signs they have at major intersections
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi78.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj105%2Fnecromancer-rad%2FUS25%2F100_5777.jpg&hash=0d93775ca9a67f488cac13a988e4cd5d193da09a)
As for Ohio, I like that it is one of the states that opts to include the mileages on these types of signs (middle row) at intersections
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fmutcd.fhwa.dot.gov%2Fhtm%2F2009%2Fimages%2Ffig2d_07_sm.gif&hash=678d6be1e11c33bb25d9b00b0f4c5920c4ee6185)
New York: honestly I cant think of anything I really like about the way they do road signage, always disliked it compared to how neighboring states like NJ and CT design things.
Delaware (future home): I like that the intersections between numbered routes are always well signed and even on the secret routes, the signs seem always shiny and new.
Quote from: Buck87 on January 14, 2016, 11:53:07 PM
I'm not from Georgia, but I really like these overhead route signs they have at major intersections
(pic snipped)
As for Ohio, I like that it is one of the states that opts to include the mileages on these types of signs (middle row) at intersections
(pic snipped)
Ehh...it's hard to see the cardinal directions, or other information. Unless you're a hawk, it's hard to tell that that's US 17 North instead of just US 17.
Quote from: noelbotevera on January 15, 2016, 05:54:20 PM
Ehh...it's hard to see the cardinal directions, or other information. Unless you're a hawk, it's hard to tell that that's US 17 North instead of just US 17.
I think has more to do with the quality of that picture. Or are you speaking from the experience of seeing this type of signage in person?
Personally, I haven't had any issue reading them while driving in GA
Quote from: Buck87 on January 15, 2016, 06:54:28 PM
Quote from: noelbotevera on January 15, 2016, 05:54:20 PM
Ehh...it's hard to see the cardinal directions, or other information. Unless you're a hawk, it's hard to tell that that's US 17 North instead of just US 17.
I think has more to do with the quality of that picture. Or are you speaking from the experience of seeing this type of signage in person?
Personally, I haven't had any issue reading them while driving in GA
Mostly in pictures. But even good ones, it's hard to discern the sign elements from each other.
Marie, I think New York DOT is more competent at least re: the BGS's than either Connecticut or New Jersey. At least in New York, lane-drops are signed correctly, but New Jersey was famous for years for their unsigned lane-drops. You'd be in the right-lane and it would suddenly disappear at an exit with no warning.
Quote from: SignBridge on January 15, 2016, 08:27:39 PM
Marie, I think New York DOT is more competent at least re: the BGS's than either Connecticut or New Jersey. At least in New York, lane-drops are signed correctly, but New Jersey was famous for years for their unsigned lane-drops. You'd be in the right-lane and it would suddenly disappear at an exit with no warning.
I agree. NYSDOT, NYSTA, and NYCDOT are quite competent and have signage that is neat and easy to understand. Almost everything is (and always was) signed. I remember moving to Ohio and thinking "what the heck is this?" when I saw their signage. A good amount of it was quite cluttered and difficult to understand. If you're from the northeast, you don't know what a dancing arrow is, because we signed option lanes with vertical arrows and/or diagrammatics (which is what the MUTCD always recommended). I will say that ODOT has greatly improved across the board in the past decade, though.
Quote from: SignBridge on January 15, 2016, 08:27:39 PM
Marie, I think New York DOT is more competent at least re: the BGS's than either Connecticut or New Jersey. At least in New York, lane-drops are signed correctly, but New Jersey was famous for years for their unsigned lane-drops. You'd be in the right-lane and it would suddenly disappear at an exit with no warning.
NYS Region 8's signs are horrible with the all caps boxes for the street names which make them very hard to read.
I never had an issue with the signs in Jersey, I like how they have the black borders on the route shields which makes them stand out.
I don't know where that lane drop issue is in Jersey but I don't believe I ever encountered it. As for Connecticut, they're good with exit only lanes and Lane Ends signs.
Quote from: mariethefoxy on January 16, 2016, 04:14:09 AM
Quote from: SignBridge on January 15, 2016, 08:27:39 PM
Marie, I think New York DOT is more competent at least re: the BGS's than either Connecticut or New Jersey. At least in New York, lane-drops are signed correctly, but New Jersey was famous for years for their unsigned lane-drops. You'd be in the right-lane and it would suddenly disappear at an exit with no warning.
NYS Region 8's signs are horrible with the all caps boxes for the street names which make them very hard to read.
Ah, there's the thing. If you're thinking just of the one region, and you don't like the boxed names, you might well think NY's signs are bad. I don't happen to dislike the boxed street names myself, and I've traveled to every part of the state, so I wouldn't rank NY's signage poorly.
That being said, a rampant problem in my area–and yes, it's region 8–is erroneous NY shields for US routes. US 9 they seem to usually get right, but 6 and 202 are pretty much a toss-up (even when all three are on the same assembly).
iPhone
NJ highway lane drops are generally very well signed. Lane drops on non-highways aren't, and generally will have very minimal signage. Many times, if (and that's a big if) there's advanced signage, it's only a few hundred feet prior to the lane drop.
Many construction zones don't have much advanced lane drop signage either. Usually the first sign is 1,500 feet prior to the lane drop, probably to encourage use of all lanes prior to the closure point (a topic that has been discussed and argued many times before).
Quote from: empirestate on January 16, 2016, 09:09:19 AM
Quote from: mariethefoxy on January 16, 2016, 04:14:09 AM
Quote from: SignBridge on January 15, 2016, 08:27:39 PM
Marie, I think New York DOT is more competent at least re: the BGS's than either Connecticut or New Jersey. At least in New York, lane-drops are signed correctly, but New Jersey was famous for years for their unsigned lane-drops. You'd be in the right-lane and it would suddenly disappear at an exit with no warning.
NYS Region 8's signs are horrible with the all caps boxes for the street names which make them very hard to read.
Ah, there's the thing. If you're thinking just of the one region, and you don't like the boxed names, you might well think NY's signs are bad. I don't happen to dislike the boxed street names myself, and I've traveled to every part of the state, so I wouldn't rank NY's signage poorly.
That being said, a rampant problem in my area–and yes, it's region 8–is erroneous NY shields for US routes. US 9 they seem to usually get right, but 6 and 202 are pretty much a toss-up (even when all three are on the same assembly).
iPhone
All the regions cant seem to figure out how to draw the route shield hence the loads of variations out there. Region 10 and 11 are missing actual mile markers, we only have the reference markers) the addition of those large NO COMMERCIAL VEHICLES signs to the parkway signs has made for a lot of wierd sign layouts so everything can fit into the bracket on the sign bridge.
Quote from: mariethefoxy on January 16, 2016, 01:30:07 PM
Quote from: empirestate on January 16, 2016, 09:09:19 AM
Quote from: mariethefoxy on January 16, 2016, 04:14:09 AM
Quote from: SignBridge on January 15, 2016, 08:27:39 PM
Marie, I think New York DOT is more competent at least re: the BGS's than either Connecticut or New Jersey. At least in New York, lane-drops are signed correctly, but New Jersey was famous for years for their unsigned lane-drops. You'd be in the right-lane and it would suddenly disappear at an exit with no warning.
NYS Region 8's signs are horrible with the all caps boxes for the street names which make them very hard to read.
Ah, there's the thing. If you're thinking just of the one region, and you don't like the boxed names, you might well think NY's signs are bad. I don't happen to dislike the boxed street names myself, and I've traveled to every part of the state, so I wouldn't rank NY's signage poorly.
That being said, a rampant problem in my area–and yes, it's region 8–is erroneous NY shields for US routes. US 9 they seem to usually get right, but 6 and 202 are pretty much a toss-up (even when all three are on the same assembly).
iPhone
All the regions cant seem to figure out how to draw the route shield hence the loads of variations out there.
You say that like New York is the only state that has that problem. Ohio has a bunch of signs all over the state that cut off Toledo. I'm sure someone who's traveled around Ohio can back that up. In most cases, NY shields are pretty consistent for the type, with BGS shields being different from those posted individually. Again, NY is not the only state that does that. Yes, there are some Batman shields out there, but those are the exception. Recently, the shield has been standardized and newer installations are identical.
Jeffandnicole: Check out I-280 eastbound at the last interchange before the NJ Turnpike in Kearny. The exit for NJ-508 east is a totally unsigned lane-drop, unless it's been re-signed recently. (I haven't been there in at least a year). And it's been that way for many years, probably since I-280 was completed thru there in the late 1970's. I know I've seen other similar ones in New Jersey, but I can't recall any of them specifically. But check out that one on I-280.
Quote from: SignBridge on January 16, 2016, 08:48:15 PM
Jeffandnicole: Check out I-280 eastbound at the last interchange before the NJ Turnpike in Kearny. The exit for NJ-508 east is a totally unsigned lane-drop, unless it's been re-signed recently. (I haven't been there in at least a year). And it's been that way for many years, probably since I-280 was completed thru there in the late 1970's. I know I've seen other similar ones in New Jersey, but I can't recall any of them specifically. But check out that one on I-280.
Recent (late 2015) GSV shows that it is still unsigned before the exit. Why the hell NJDOT didn't put in an Exit Only is beyond me, but I remember that interchange quite well.
It looks like those overhead signs at the split are fairly new. I think that whole stretch was re-signed a few years ago, replacing all the original 1970's era signs. But apparently NJDOT is so out of touch with reality that they just copied the original signs when they did the replacements. And no one caught it! Not to mention that it's been that way for 35 years! Absolutely inexcusable! Welcome to NJDOT signing.......... :angry: :angry: :angry:
If anything, IDOT (and I'm speaking for primarily District 1) has been replacing almost every traffic signal in the area. Although it is probably a waste of money, they at least look nice.
They also replace signs relatively often.
Other than that I've got nothing.
For ISTHA, their sign design is getting better as they know how to use Clearview. They replace signs fairly quickly, and the roads are in nice condition. There's still plenty to gripe with them too.
Quote from: peterj920 on January 07, 2016, 07:56:30 AM
I like how Wisconsin has letters instead of numbers for their county highways. It makes it a lot easier to distinguish between state and county highways. The letters also allow counties to name county highways after roads or things in the area.
Examples:
County CA in Appleton: College Ave
County HS in Howard-Suamico is named because it goes through both communities
County GV in Brown Co. connects County G and County V
Sorry for the necrobump.
Brown County EB was named for Emmet Bertrand who recently died ay 97, according to fakebook.
Obit: https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/GreenBayPressGazette/obituary.aspx?pid=197086586&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=GreenBayPressGazette&utm-content=197086586&fbclid=IwAR2JGnngUa1oltUwqKEW-kTDQ2m5GQ77lfwY3578KiayNkC0fSQIEPt_MAM
Relevant item was he worked for the county highway department for 32 years.
I like how most of our signals are on mast arms and that we have an extensive state highway system. I also like our extensive interstate network and how wide some of our highways can be (including four-laned rural highways like US Routes 36, 54, 61, 63, and 67).
In addition, we seem to have a lot of nice bridges (though there definitely remain a few old ones), and our pavement is a bit better than Illinois.
Wisconsin's control city choices overall are pretty good. Other states can be really extreme - you have Illinois who will sign cities hundereds of miles away, and then you have Minnesota and Pennsylvania (and I'm sure there are others), who will sign the most irrelevant places.
Designating headlight use areas and "next signal" signs.
Texas:
Frontage roads along most interstates and limited access highways allowing easy access to local businesses. While getting rare, there are still some 2 way frontage roads which are awesomely dangerous if you don't know who is supposed to yield.
Yield signs at stop lights so you can make a right turn on red without stopping.
U Turn ramps at major intersections on frontage roads so you don't have to wait for 2 traffic signals.
It gets a lot of crap for being boring, expensive, crowded etc but the design and layout of the New Jersey Turnpike is ingenious
Quote from: epzik8 on November 12, 2020, 10:32:35 AM"next signal" signs.
This something I'd prefer to see nationwide, at least in urban and suburban areas. Reading street blades from 300-1000 feet away is not always possible and they can be obscured even from short distances.