The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) on Dec. 19, 2023, published its long-awaited update of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). The publication of the new MUTCD is the first update of the MUTCD since 2009, and more than 1,100 pages long.
NATSO has urged FHWA to allow alternative fuel logos to be present on highway signs if, in addition to alternative fuel, the facility also provides foodservice and/or convenience stores, restrooms, and onsite employees who are able to contact law enforcement.
The American Highway Users Alliance (of which NATSO is a Board member) is a member of the National Committee on Uniform Traffic Control Devices and also worked through the committee to address many issues including signage for Electric Vehicles and incorporating more autonomous technology onto the highways.
NATSO is currently examining the newest edition of the MUTCD and plans to update members once we have had time to digest the full manual. However, if you would like to read the newest version of the MUTCD you may do so by clicking here. Additionally, the FHWA released a supplemental summary of issues that the FHWA considered in this update of the MUTCD; you may view that by clicking here. Finally you may view a redlined version of the MUTCD to see all of the changes made to this edition by clicking here. If you have any questions regarding the 11th edition of the MUTCD.
NATSO in 2021 filed the comments in response to proposed changes to the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways. NATSO is seeking to ensure that the MUTCD adequately informs customers of the availability of alternative fuels at the types of facilities that they expect when refueling. The proposed MUTCD would clarify that supplemental messages identifying an alternative fuel that is available may be added only to the business identification sign panels on the GAS Specific Services sign for a gas facility that provides an alternative fuel in addition to, rather than in lieu of, gasoline.
NATSO further urged FHWA to ensure that the final rule aligns with driver expectations and clarify that with respect to EVs, only direct current (“DC”) fast chargers are eligible to be identified on highway signs.
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