Overhead Signs with External Exit Tabs?!?

[jrouse]

^ I've got to think that they do. Nevada used monotube sign supports to mount their first real APL signs, which are HUGE. The standard truss wouldn't work with APLs. However, it seems (but I have no way to verify) that there would be less structural support against wind forces in the monotube design, especially with a large sign...

I have no idea whether Caltrans and NDOT use different monotube designs. I do believe, however, that NDOT's sign mounting is different. NDOT signs appear to be formed by a rigid steel frame (including exit tab) with sign panels riveted to the frame, then the frame is attached to the support structure. I think this negates the need for an exit tab mounting detail, but I'm not 100% certain.

Yes, if you look at the detail in their state Standard Plans, the sign panel frame includes the exit number tab.  Caltrans does use frames in some locations.  Using a frame requires a sign panel that wraps over the frame.  This would probably a bit more expensive than the thinner laminated sign panels that are placed onto mounting beams that are attached to the truss.


iPhone

[TheStranger]

FYI I emailed Caltrans and the construction authority. I got a reply from the Presidio Parkway group stating "The contractor is aware of this issue and is investigating."

Got to drive the newly completed Presidio Parkway/Doyle Drive last night...the gore point sign at the Marina Boulevard exit was changed by last night to the correct number (exit 437) via number sticker, though the overhead exit tab still needs to be fixed!

[national highway 1]

What was in the blank space next to the CA 120 shield?

[pctech]

Does this mean the Caltrans is planning to switch to external exit tabs in the long run? Are they going to eliminate the "flavor of the day" that seems to be the rule in CA. for the BGS?

[roadfro]

What was in the blank space next to the CA 120 shield?

Total guess, but not sure that there was anything there. There's not an easily seen artifact of any prior sign elements (as there is with what may have been an "exit" panel to accompany the "only" panel by the right down arrow.

[Occidental Tourist]

What was in the blank space next to the CA 120 shield?

Total guess, but not sure that there was anything there. There's not an easily seen artifact of any prior sign elements (as there is with what may have been an "exit" panel to accompany the "only" panel by the right down arrow.

I looked at some of the historical maps at David Rumsey's site for pre and post completion of the Westside Freeway.  A portion of this section of the freeway was originally part of the former US 50 highway routing when it extended west and south of Sacramento into the Bay Area via Tracy.  Even back then, at this particular point of the highway, US 50 continued north and CA 120 had its western terminus here.  There was no other signed route in this area that was multiplexed with CA 120. 

So it appears that the big blank space on the sign was just a big blank space.