Traffic Control Devices on Federal-Aid and Other Streets and Highways; Standards, 75111-75115 [E6-21228]
Download as PDF
Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 240 / Thursday, December 14, 2006 / Rules and Regulations
Washington, DC 20591; telephone: (202)
267–8783.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
The non-compulsory reporting points
AYZOL, BORAN, EMSOW, and TIBOY
are in use by the Anchorage Center on
a daily basis and are needed for the
separation of air traffic.
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The Rule
This action amends Title 14 Code of
Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 71 by
establishing four high altitude reporting
points, AYZOL, BORAN, EMSOW, and
TIBOY in Alaska. The FAA has
determined these reporting points are
needed to support the NAS. This action
improves air safety and facilitates the
management of air traffic in Alaska.
Since this action involves the
designation of reporting points already
in use by ATC, no additional impact
will be incurred by the public.
Therefore, I find that notice or public
procedure under 5 U.S.C. 553(b) is
impractical and contrary to the public
interest.
Alaskan High Altitude Reporting
Points are published in paragraph 7005
of FAA Order 7400.9P September 1,
2006, and effective September 15, 2006,
which is incorporated by reference in 14
CFR 71.1. The Alaskan High Altitude
Reporting Points listed in this document
will be published subsequently in the
Order.
The FAA has determined that this
regulation only involves an established
body of technical regulations for which
frequent and routine amendments are
necessary to keep them operationally
current. Therefore, this proposed
regulation: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant
regulatory action’’ under Executive
Order 12866; (2) is not a ‘‘significant
rule’’ under Department of
Transportation (DOT) Regulatory
Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034;
February 26, 1979); and (3) does not
warrant preparation of a regulatory
evaluation as the anticipated impact is
so minimal. Since this is a routine
matter that will only affect air traffic
procedures and air navigation, it is
certified that this rule, when
promulgated, will not have a significant
economic impact on a substantial
number of small entities under the
criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
paragraph 311a. This airspace action is
not expected to cause any potentially
significant environmental impacts, and
no extraordinary circumstances exist
that warrant preparation of an
environmental assessment.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 71
RIN 2125–AF16
Airspace, Incorporation by reference,
Navigation (air).
Traffic Control Devices on Federal-Aid
and Other Streets and Highways;
Standards
Adoption of the Amendment
15:47 Dec 13, 2006
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Federal Highway Administration
23 CFR Part 655
[FHWA Docket No. FHWA–2005–23182]
Federal Highway
Administration (FHWA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
In consideration of the foregoing, the
Federal Aviation Administration
amends 14 CFR part 71 as follows:
I
PART 71—DESIGNATION OF CLASS A,
B, C, D, AND E AIRSPACE AREAS; AIR
TRAFFIC SERVICE ROUTES; AND
REPORTING POINTS
1. The authority citation for part 71
continues to read as follows:
I
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40103, 40113,
40120; E.O. 10854, 24 FR 9565, 3 CFR, 1959–
1963 Comp., p. 389.
§ 71.1
[Amended]
2. The incorporation by reference in
14 CFR 71.1 of FAA Order 7400.9P,
Airspace Designations and Reporting
Points, dated September 1, 2006, and
effective September 15, 2006, is
amended as follows:
I
Paragraph 7005 Alaskan High Altitude
Reporting Points.
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7001
[Amend]
AYZOL AK
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[New]
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TIBOY AK
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[New]
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Issued in Washington, DC on December 7,
2006.
Edith V. Parish,
Acting Manager, Airspace and Rules.
[FR Doc. E6–21190 Filed 12–13–06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
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SUMMARY: The FHWA is revising its
regulation that prescribes procedures for
obtaining basic uniformity of traffic
control devices on Federal-aid and other
streets and highways. This final rule
makes some nomenclature changes,
removes outdated references, and
provides clarification on the meaning of
roads ‘‘open to public travel’’ and
‘‘substantial conformance.’’
DATES: Effective January 16, 2007.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr.
Hari Kalla, Office of Transportation
Operations, (202) 366–5915, or Mr.
Raymond Cuprill, Office of the Chief
Counsel, (202) 366–0791, U.S.
Department of Transportation, Federal
Highway Administration, 400 Seventh
Street, SW., Washington, DC 20590.
Office hours are from 7:45 a.m. to 4:15
p.m. e.t., Monday through Friday,
except Federal holidays.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Electronic Access
[New]
EMSOW AK
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[New]
BORAN AK
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This document, the notice of
proposed rulemaking (NPRM), and all of
the comments received may be viewed
online through the Document
Management System (DMS) at https://
dms.dot.gov. The DMS is available 24
hours each day, 365 days each year.
Electronic submission and retrieval help
and guidelines are available under the
help section of the Web site.
An electronic copy of this document
may also be downloaded by accessing
the Office of the Federal Register’s home
page at https://www.archives.gov or the
Government Printing Office’s Web page
at https://www.gpoaccess.gov/nara. An
electronic version of this document may
also be downloaded at the FHWA Web
site: https://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov.
Background
Environmental Review
The FAA has determined that this
action qualifies for categorical exclusion
under the National Environmental
Policy Act in accordance with FAA
Order 1050.1E, ‘‘Environmental
Impacts: Policies and Procedures,’’
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75111
The Manual on Uniform Traffic
Control Devices (MUTCD), also referred
to as the Manual, is developed and
approved by the Federal Highway
Administration and recognized as the
national standard for all traffic control
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Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 240 / Thursday, December 14, 2006 / Rules and Regulations
devices installed on any street, highway,
or shared-use path open to public travel
in accordance with 23 U.S.C. 109(d) and
402(a). It is incorporated by reference
into the Code of Federal Regulations at
23 CFR part 655. The FHWA proposed
a number of changes to 23 CFR 655 in
order to update its regulations. The
FHWA proposed removing certain
outdated references, making certain
nomenclature changes, and providing
clarification of certain terms.
Discussion of Comments Received to
the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
(NPRM)
On April 25, 2006, the FHWA
published a NPRM in the Federal
Register at 71 FR 23877 to provide an
opportunity for public comment on the
proposed changes to 23 CFR part 655. In
response to the NPRM, the FHWA
received comments to the docket from
20 entities, including 4 national
associations, 8 State transportation
agencies (California, Maryland,
Michigan, North Carolina, Ohio,
Oregon, Washington, and Minnesota), 2
city transportation agencies (City of
Phoenix and City of Tucson), 1 private
company (KDD and Associates), and 4
private individuals. The national
associations included the American
Association of State Highway and
Transportation Officials (AASHTO), the
Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety
(AHAS), the American Traffic Safety
Services Association (ATSSA), and the
National Committee on Uniform Traffic
Control Devices (NCUTCD). One of the
20 docket submissions was a request
from the NCUTCD for a time extension
of the docket comment period. In
response to this request, on June 14,
2006, the FHWA published a notice in
the Federal Register at 71 FR 34297 to
extend the comment closing date from
June 26, 2006, to July 21, 2006.
While four of the docket submissions
addressed all of the proposed changes,
the majority of the letters to the docket
addressed specific proposed changes.
The FHWA considered each of these
comments in adopting this final rule.
These issues are identified and
addressed under the appropriate section
below.
Section-by-Section Discussion of
Changes
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Section 655.601
Purpose
The FHWA is removing the reference
to the Standard Alphabets for Highway
Signs (SAHS) by removing paragraph
(b). The SAHS, 1966 Edition, is
outdated and no longer exists as a
separate document. The FHWA now
publishes the SAHS as part of the
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15:47 Dec 13, 2006
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Standard Highway Signs (SHS) Book.
The SHS Book is referenced in MUTCD
Section 1A.11 and throughout MUTCD
Part 2. The SHS Book is also posted on
the MUTCD Web page at https://
mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov. The FHWA
received five comments in support of
this change and no comments opposed.
This change will be adopted without
modification in the final rule.
Section 655.603
Standards
‘‘Open to Public Travel’’
The FHWA is revising the language in
23 CFR 655.603(a) to clarify that, for the
purpose of MUTCD applicability, the
phrase ‘‘open to public travel’’ includes
toll roads and roads within shopping
centers, parking lots, airports, sports
arenas, and other similar business and
recreation facilities that are privately
owned but where the public is allowed
to travel without access restrictions.
Military bases and other gated
properties where access is restricted and
private railroad grade crossings are not
included in the term ‘‘open to public
travel.’’
Eleven comments generally supported
this clarification but offered potential
areas of concern for consideration by the
FHWA, and one comment opposed this
clarification. Based on the comments
received, the FHWA has modified the
clarification to include parking lots on
the list of examples where the term
‘‘open to public travel’’ applies, and to
include military bases and other gated
properties as examples of what is not
included in the term. We have also
indicated that the clarification of ‘‘open
to public travel’’ is for the purpose of
MUTCD applicability only. It is
important to note that FHWA’s intent is
only to provide some general examples
of what is meant by ‘‘open to public
travel’’ because we recognize that it
would not be possible to list them all.
Of the 11 docket comments in support
of this clarification, some expressed the
following concerns: (1) This could
create an unreasonable State
responsibility to mandate compliance
without the necessary authority; (2)
Without enforcement, the intent of this
change would be undermined; (3) It is
not reasonable to expect all private
property owners to have the means and
expertise to place and maintain
standard traffic control devices; and (4)
The language needs to consider State
law.
The FHWA does not believe it is
necessary for State and/or local highway
agencies to have specific authority or
enforcement responsibility for traffic
control devices on private roads. This
change to 23 CFR part 655 does not
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require State or local agencies to police
the private properties open to public
travel to ensure compliance with the
MUTCD. However, this change does
make it clear that private roads open to
public travel are subject to the same
traffic control standards as public streets
and highways. Therefore, owners or
parties responsible for such private
roads are encouraged to bring the traffic
control devices into compliance with
the MUTCD and other applicable State
Manuals.
The FHWA believes that the change to
23 CFR 655.603(a) will clarify the
application of this term, create
awareness of the applicability of the
MUTCD to certain private properties,
improve safety, and increase the
uniformity of traffic control devices on
roads used by the general public.
‘‘Substantial Conformance’’
23 CFR 655.603(b)(1) provides that
where State or other Federal agency
MUTCDs or supplements are required,
they shall be in ‘‘substantial
conformance’’ with the National
MUTCD as approved by the FHWA
Division Administrator. The FHWA
proposed to define ‘‘substantial
conformance’’ to mean that the State
MUTCD or supplement shall conform as
a minimum to the standard statements
included in the National MUTCD.
Standard statements in the MUTCD
describe required practices and are
indicated by the term ‘‘shall.’’ The
FHWA also proposed to define
‘‘substantial conformance’’ to mean that
the guidance statements contained in
the National MUTCD also are expected
to be in the State Manual or supplement
unless the reason for not including it is
satisfactorily explained based on
engineering judgment or a documented
engineering study. Guidance statements
in the MUTCD describe recommended
practices and are indicated by the term
‘‘should.’’ Under the proposed
definition, a State Manual or
supplement could not be less
prescriptive than the MUTCD but it
could be more prescriptive; meaning, for
example, that a guidance or ‘‘should’’
statement in the National MUTCD could
not be an option in the State Manual,
but that it could be a standard or ‘‘shall’’
statement. The Division Administrator
and the FHWA Associate Administrator
of the Federal Lands Highway Program
have the flexibility to determine on a
case-by-case basis the degree of
variation allowed.
Seven comments generally supported
this change but offered potential areas of
concern for consideration by the FHWA,
and 10 comments opposed this
proposed change. Some of the areas of
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concern from those who supported the
change included the following: (1)
Agree that there needs to be a definition
but do not agree that all ‘‘shalls’’ must
be included. (2) Agree, but what
happens if States have specific
legislation which conflicts with the
standards. (3) The proposed definition
is fundamentally sound, but will be
challenging to meet because of statutory
laws that differ from the MUTCD. (4)
This change puts unfair liability on
cities, particularly the part of the
definition that suggests State Manuals or
supplements cannot be less prescriptive
than the National MUTCD. In urban
conditions, there may be any number of
reasons why a less prescriptive proposal
would still meet the goal of providing
adequate uniformity (i.e., the MUTCD
requires overhead signs for all HOV but
in urban areas this may not be possible).
Some of the comments from those
opposed to this change included the
following: (1) A State’s right to use
alternative techniques that are equal to
or better than the MUTCD should be
protected. (2) The definition does not
allow flexibility to accommodate State
and local issues. (3) States should retain
the option to deviate from standard
statements. (4) In some situations,
legislative action would put the State in
conflict with the National MUTCD.
The FHWA agrees with the comments
above that suggest this regulation
should address the impact of State laws
that may force non-conformance with
the National MUTCD and should allow
more flexibility to accommodate State
and local issues. Therefore, in addition
to the definition provided for
substantial conformance as it applies to
the standard statements in the National
MUTCD, the FHWA is also adding the
following sentence to 23 CFR
655.603(b)(1) to address these
comments: ‘‘The FHWA Division
Administrators and Associate
Administrator for the Federal Lands
Highway Program may grant exceptions
in cases where a State MUTCD or
supplement cannot conform to standard
statements in the National MUTCD
because of the requirements of a specific
State law that was in effect prior to the
effective date of this final rule, provided
that the Division Administrator or
Associate Administrator determines
based on information available and
documentation received from the State
that the non-conformance does not
create a safety concern.’’ In addition to
the definition for substantial
conformance as it applies to the
guidance statements in the National
MUTCD, the FHWA is modifying the
sentence to read: ‘‘The guidance
statements contained in the National
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MUTCD shall also be in the State
Manual or supplement unless the reason
for not including it is satisfactorily
explained based on engineering
judgment, specific conflicting State law,
or a documented engineering study.’’
Finally, since the FHWA is adding
flexibility in the description of
substantial conformance as it relates to
standard and guidance statements in the
National MUTCD, the FHWA agrees that
describing State Manuals or
supplements in terms of being either
‘‘less prescriptive’’ or ‘‘more
prescriptive’’ is not necessary and the
language has been removed from this
final rule.
These additional comments were also
submitted to the docket and were
handled as follows: (1) Defining
substantial conformance should be left
up to the Division Office in each State.
(2) Eliminates right of practitioner to
exercise engineering judgment and
destroys the only current method by
which FHWA employees get to consult
and exchange ideas with practitioners.
(3) States should not have to incur cost
of engineering study to deviate from
guidance statements. The FHWA
believes that the concern about the
Division Office involvement is already
addressed because the Division
Administrator is an integral part of the
process for adopting State Manuals or
supplements and this does not change
by incorporating any of these changes in
the final rule. The FHWA believes that
the comment about ‘‘engineering
judgment’’ is also addressed in that
States have a choice of using
engineering judgment to explain
deviations from the guidance statements
and unlike an engineering study,
engineering judgment does not involve
a cost. One comment suggested that
FHWA should conduct a thorough
review of State exceptions or
supplements and search for ways to
improve the 2003 MUTCD before
making this change. The FHWA believes
that this comment is beyond the intent
of this rulemaking activity.
‘‘Issuance Date’’
In the current § 655.603(b)(1), States
or other Federal agencies are required to
adopt the National MUTCD within 2
years of issuance any changes. The term
‘‘issuance date’’ is incorrect
nomenclature and the FHWA is
changing this term to ‘‘effective date.’’
The effective date occurs 30 days after
a final rule is published in the Federal
Register in order to allow parties
affected by the rule a reasonable time to
prepare for the effective date of a rule,
or to take any other action which a final
rule may prompt. The FHWA is also
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75113
moving this discussion to new
paragraph (b)(3). The FHWA received
four comments in support of this change
and no comments opposed. This change
will be adopted without modification in
the final rule.
Two-Year Adoption Period for States
That Automatically Adopt the MUTCD
The FHWA is revising the second
sentence in § 655.603(b)(1) to include
language that will provide the Division
Administrators and the Associate
Administrator of the Federal Lands
Highway Program the flexibility to
allow States that automatically adopt
the MUTCD immediately upon the
effective date, the option of a 2-year
adoption period. This will give States
the opportunity to use their existing
stocks of certain noncompliant traffic
control devices and complete
construction projects with previously
approved plans that have certain noncompliant traffic control devices under
the new MUTCD. The FHWA is also
moving this discussion to new
§ 655.603(b)(3). The FHWA received
five comments in support of this change
and no comments opposed. This change
will be adopted without modification in
the final rule.
Reorganization and Editorial Changes
In 23 CFR 655.603(b)(2), the FHWA is
combining the first sentence, which
gives the FHWA Associate
Administrator of the Federal Lands
Highway Program approval authority for
Federal land management agencies’
MUTCDs, with the discussion in 23 CFR
655.603(b)(1) which discusses the
Division Administrator’s authority to
approve State MUTCDs and
supplements. The second sentence in
paragraph (b)(2) will now become the
first and only sentence for paragraph
(b)(2).
The FHWA is amending § 655.603(c)
by removing footnote number and
footnote reference ‘‘2’’ and adding in its
place footnote number and footnote
reference ‘‘1’’.
The FHWA is moving the discussion
in § 655.603(d)(4) to § 655.603(d)(1). The
discussion in § 655.603(d)(4) about the
FHWA’s option to establish target dates
for achieving compliance with changes
in the MUTCD is more appropriate for
inclusion in § 655.603(d)(1). Therefore,
§ 655.603(d)(4) is removed.
The FHWA is removing § 655.603(e).
This paragraph was originally included
when the Specific Service Sign Program
was first adopted on January 23, 1969,
so that interested persons would be
directed to the MUTCD for more details.
Since the Specific Service Sign Program
has been in the MUTCD for 35 years and
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the public is very familiar with this
program, the FHWA believes that this
information is no longer necessary or
appropriate for inclusion in Title 23,
Code of Federal Regulations.
The FHWA received three comments
in support and no comments opposed to
the above reorganization and editorial
changes. These changes will be adopted
without modification in the final rule.
Section 655.604
Uniformity
Achieving Basic
In § 655.604, paragraphs (a) and (b)
indicate that the systematic upgrading
of existing traffic control devices and
installation of devices should be based
on inventories made in accordance with
23 CFR 1204.4. That section refers to a
program required by the former
Highway Safety Program Standard
Number 13, Traffic Engineering Services
(23 CFR 1204.4), a NHTSA regulation
that no longer exists. Therefore, the
FHWA is removing this reference to 23
CFR 1204.4. The FHWA received five
comments in support of this change and
no comments opposed. Two of the
comments that supported this change
and understood why we are removing
the outdated reference, did not agree
with downgrading the contents of 23
CFR 1204.4 from standards to
guidelines. This particular comment is
outside the scope of this effort to update
the information in 23 CFR part 655 and
has not been addressed in this
document. This change will be adopted
without modification in the final rule.
Rulemaking Analysis and Notices
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Executive Order 12866 (Regulatory
Planning and Review) and U.S. DOT
Regulatory Policies and Procedures
The FHWA has determined that this
action would not be a significant
regulatory action within the meaning of
Executive Order 12866 or significant
within the meaning of U.S. Department
of Transportation regulatory policies
and procedures. These changes are not
anticipated to adversely affect, in any
material way, any sector of the
economy. The FHWA expects that these
changes will provide clarity at little or
no additional expense to public
agencies or the motoring public. In
addition, these changes would not
create a serious inconsistency with any
other agency’s action or materially alter
the budgetary impact of any
entitlements, grants, user fees, or loan
programs. Therefore, a full regulatory
evaluation is not required.
Regulatory Flexibility Act
In compliance with the Regulatory
Flexibility Act (Pub. L. 96–354, 5 U.S.C.
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15:47 Dec 13, 2006
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601–612), the FHWA has evaluated the
effects of these changes on small entities
and has determined that this action
would not have a significant economic
impact on a substantial number of small
entities.
This rule updates the authorities of
the FHWA and referenced documents
regarding MUTCD compliance on
existing highways. Such updates will
provide transportation entities with the
appropriate points of contact regarding
the MUTCD. The FHWA hereby certifies
that these revisions would not have a
significant economic impact on a
substantial number of small entities.
Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
This final rule would not impose
unfunded mandates as defined by the
Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
(Pub. L. 104–4, 109 Stat. 48, March 22,
1995). This action will not result in the
expenditure by State, local, and tribal
governments, in the aggregate, or by the
private sector, of $128.1 million or more
in any one year (2 U.S.C. 1532).
Executive Order 13132 (Federalism)
This action has been analyzed in
accordance with the principles and
criteria contained in Executive Order
13132 dated August 4, 1999, and the
FHWA has determined that this action
would not have sufficient federalism
implications to warrant the preparation
of a federalism assessment. The FHWA
has also determined that this
rulemaking will not preempt any State
law or State regulation or affect the
States’ ability to discharge traditional
State governmental functions.
Executive Order 13175 (Tribal
Consultation)
The FHWA has analyzed this action
under Executive Order 13175, dated
November 6, 2000, and believes that it
would not have substantial direct effects
on one or more Indian tribes; would not
impose substantial direct compliance
costs on Indian tribal governments; and
would not preempt tribal law.
Therefore, a tribal summary impact
statement is not required.
Executive Order 13211 (Energy Effects)
The FHWA has analyzed this action
under Executive Order 13211, Actions
Concerning Regulations That
Significantly Affect Energy Supply,
Distribution, or Use. We have
determined that it is not a significant
energy action under that order because
it is not likely to have a significant
adverse effect on the supply,
distribution, or use of energy. Therefore,
a Statement of Energy Effects under
Executive Order 13211 is not required.
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Executive Order 12372
(Intergovernmental Review)
Catalog of Federal Domestic
Assistance program Number 20.205,
Highway Planning and Construction.
The regulations implementing Executive
Order 12372 regarding
intergovernmental consultation on
Federal programs and activities apply to
this program.
Paperwork Reduction Act
Under the Paperwork Reduction Act
of 1995 (PRA) (44 U.S.C. 3501, et seq.),
Federal agencies must obtain approval
from the Office of Management and
Budget (OMB) for each collection of
information they conduct, sponsor, or
require through regulations. The FHWA
has determined that this action does not
contain collection information
requirements for purposes of the PRA.
Executive Order 12988 (Civil Justice
Reform)
This action meets applicable
standards in sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) of
Executive Order 12988, Civil Justice
Reform, to minimize litigation,
eliminate ambiguity, and reduce
burden.
Executive Order 13045 (Protection of
Children)
The FHWA has analyzed this action
under Executive Order 13045,
Protection of Children from
Environmental Health Risks and Safety
Risks. The FHWA certifies that this
action would not concern an
environmental risk to health or safety
that may disproportionately affect
children.
Executive Order 12630 (Taking of
Private Property)
The FHWA does not anticipate that
this action would affect a taking of
private property or otherwise have
taking implications under Executive
Order 12630, Governmental Actions and
Interference with Constitutionally
Protected Property Rights.
National Environmental Policy Act
The agency has analyzed this action
for the purpose of the National
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42
U.S.C. 4321–4347) and has determined
that it would not have any effect on the
quality of the environment.
Regulation Identification Number
A regulation identification number
(RIN) is assigned to each regulatory
action listed in the Unified Agenda of
Federal Regulations. The Regulatory
Information Service Center publishes
the Unified Agenda in April and
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October of each year. The RIN contained
in the heading of this document can be
used to cross reference this action with
the Unified Agenda.
List of Subjects in 23 CFR Part 655
Design standards, Grant programs—
transportation, Highways and roads,
Incorporation by reference, Signs,
Traffic regulations.
Issued on: December 7, 2006.
J. Richard Capka,
Federal Highway Administrator.
In consideration of the foregoing, the
FHWA amends title 23, Code of Federal
Regulations, part 655, subpart F as
follows:
I
PART 655—TRAFFIC OPERATIONS
1. The authority citation for part 655
continues to read as follows:
I
Authority: 23 U.S.C. 101(a), 104, 109(d),
114(a), 217, 315, and 402(a); 23 CFR 1.32;
and, 49 CFR 1.48(b).
§ 655.601
[Amended]
2. Amend § 655.601 by removing
paragraph (b) and by redesignating
paragraphs (c) and (d) as paragraphs (b)
and (c), respectively.
I 3. Amend § 655.603 by revising
paragraphs (a) and (b); amending
paragraph (c), by redesignating footnote
2 as footnote 1; by revising paragraph
(d)(1); and by removing paragraphs
(d)(4) and (e) to read as follows:
I
mstockstill on PROD1PC61 with RULES
§ 655.603
Standards.
(a) National MUTCD. The MUTCD
approved by the Federal Highway
Administrator is the national standard
for all traffic control devices installed
on any street, highway, or bicycle trail
open to public travel in accordance with
23 U.S.C. 109(d) and 402(a). For the
purpose of MUTCD applicability, open
to public travel includes toll roads and
roads within shopping centers, parking
lot areas, airports, sports arenas, and
other similar business and/or recreation
facilities that are privately owned but
where the public is allowed to travel
without access restrictions. Military
bases and other gated properties where
access is restricted and private highwayrail grade crossings are not included in
this definition.
(b) State or other Federal MUTCD. (1)
Where State or other Federal agency
MUTCDs or supplements are required,
they shall be in substantial conformance
with the National MUTCD. Substantial
conformance means that the State
MUTCD or supplement shall conform as
a minimum to the standard statements
included in the National MUTCD. The
FHWA Division Administrators and
Associate Administrator for the Federal
VerDate Aug<31>2005
15:47 Dec 13, 2006
Jkt 211001
Lands Highway Program may grant
exceptions in cases where a State
MUTCD or supplement cannot conform
to standard statements in the National
MUTCD because of the requirements of
a specific State law that was in effect
prior to the effective date of this final
rule, provided that the Division
Administrator or Associate
Administrator determines based on
information available and
documentation received from the State
that the non-conformance does not
create a safety concern. The guidance
statements contained in the National
MUTCD shall also be in the State
Manual or supplement unless the reason
for not including it is satisfactorily
explained based on engineering
judgment, specific conflicting State law,
or a documented engineering study. The
FHWA Division Administrators shall
approve the State MUTCDs and
supplements that are in substantial
conformance with the National MUTCD.
The FHWA Associate Administrator of
the Federal Lands Highway Program
shall approve other Federal land
management agencies MUTCDs and
supplements that are in substantial
conformance with the National MUTCD.
The FHWA Division Administrators and
the FHWA Associate Administrators for
the Federal Lands Highway Program
have the flexibility to determine on a
case-by-case basis the degree of
variation allowed.
(2) States and other Federal agencies
are encouraged to adopt the National
MUTCD in its entirety as their official
Manual on Uniform Traffic Control
Devices.
(3) States and other Federal agencies
shall adopt changes issued by the
FHWA to the National MUTCD within
two years from the effective date of the
final rule. For those States that
automatically adopt the MUTCD
immediately upon the effective date of
the latest edition or revision of the
MUTCD, the FHWA Division
Administrators have the flexibility to
allow these States to install certain
devices from existing inventory or
previously approved construction plans
that comply with the previous MUTCD
during the two-year adoption period.
*
*
*
*
*
(d) Compliance—(1) Existing
highways. Each State, in cooperation
with its political subdivisions, and
Federal agency shall have a program as
required by 23 U.S.C. 402(a), which
shall include provisions for the
systematic upgrading of substandard
traffic control devices and for the
installation of needed devices to achieve
conformity with the MUTCD. The
PO 00000
Frm 00031
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
75115
FHWA may establish target dates of
achieving compliance with changes to
specific devices in the MUTCD.
*
*
*
*
*
I 4. Revise the first sentence of
paragraph (a) and the first sentence of
paragraph (b) of § 655.604 to read as
follows:
§ 655.604
Achieving basic uniformity.
(a) Programs. Programs for the orderly
and systematic upgrading of existing
traffic control devices or the installation
of needed traffic control devices on or
off the Federal-aid system should be
based on inventories made in
accordance with the Highway Safety
Program Guideline 21, ‘‘Roadway
Safety.’’ * * *
(b) Inventory. An inventory of all
traffic control devices is recommended
in the Highway Safety Program
Guideline 21, ‘‘Roadway Safety.’’ * * *
[FR Doc. E6–21228 Filed 12–13–06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–22–P
PENSION BENEFIT GUARANTY
CORPORATION
29 CFR Parts 4050 and 4281
RIN 1212–AB08
Mortality Assumptions
Pension Benefit Guaranty
Corporation.
ACTION: Direct final rule.
AGENCY:
SUMMARY: This document makes
changes to the mortality assumptions
under parts 4050 (Missing Participants)
and 4281 (Duties of Plan Sponsor
Following Mass Withdrawal) of PBGC’s
regulations. In a final rule published in
the Federal Register on December 2,
2005, PBGC amended part 4044
(Allocation of Assets in Single-employer
Plans) of its regulations to update
mortality tables used for certain
valuations for single-employer plans.
Because of the dependence of certain
valuations under part 4050 on part
4044, amendments updating the
mortality assumptions under part 4050
are needed. This rule also makes a
minor conforming amendment to the
mortality assumptions in part 4281.
DATES: Effective February 27, 2007,
without further notice, unless PBGC
receives significant adverse comment by
January 16, 2007. For a discussion of
applicability of this rule, see
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION.
ADDRESSES: Comments, identified by
RIN number 1212–AB08, may be
submitted by any of the following
methods:
E:\FR\FM\14DER1.SGM
14DER1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 71, Number 240 (Thursday, December 14, 2006)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 75111-75115]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E6-21228]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Highway Administration
23 CFR Part 655
[FHWA Docket No. FHWA-2005-23182]
RIN 2125-AF16
Traffic Control Devices on Federal-Aid and Other Streets and
Highways; Standards
AGENCY: Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FHWA is revising its regulation that prescribes procedures
for obtaining basic uniformity of traffic control devices on Federal-
aid and other streets and highways. This final rule makes some
nomenclature changes, removes outdated references, and provides
clarification on the meaning of roads ``open to public travel'' and
``substantial conformance.''
DATES: Effective January 16, 2007.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Hari Kalla, Office of
Transportation Operations, (202) 366-5915, or Mr. Raymond Cuprill,
Office of the Chief Counsel, (202) 366-0791, U.S. Department of
Transportation, Federal Highway Administration, 400 Seventh Street,
SW., Washington, DC 20590. Office hours are from 7:45 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.
e.t., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Electronic Access
This document, the notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM), and all of
the comments received may be viewed online through the Document
Management System (DMS) at https://dms.dot.gov. The DMS is available 24
hours each day, 365 days each year. Electronic submission and retrieval
help and guidelines are available under the help section of the Web
site.
An electronic copy of this document may also be downloaded by
accessing the Office of the Federal Register's home page at https://
www.archives.gov or the Government Printing Office's Web page at http:/
/www.gpoaccess.gov/nara. An electronic version of this document may
also be downloaded at the FHWA Web site: https://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov.
Background
The Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), also
referred to as the Manual, is developed and approved by the Federal
Highway Administration and recognized as the national standard for all
traffic control
[[Page 75112]]
devices installed on any street, highway, or shared-use path open to
public travel in accordance with 23 U.S.C. 109(d) and 402(a). It is
incorporated by reference into the Code of Federal Regulations at 23
CFR part 655. The FHWA proposed a number of changes to 23 CFR 655 in
order to update its regulations. The FHWA proposed removing certain
outdated references, making certain nomenclature changes, and providing
clarification of certain terms.
Discussion of Comments Received to the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
(NPRM)
On April 25, 2006, the FHWA published a NPRM in the Federal
Register at 71 FR 23877 to provide an opportunity for public comment on
the proposed changes to 23 CFR part 655. In response to the NPRM, the
FHWA received comments to the docket from 20 entities, including 4
national associations, 8 State transportation agencies (California,
Maryland, Michigan, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Washington, and
Minnesota), 2 city transportation agencies (City of Phoenix and City of
Tucson), 1 private company (KDD and Associates), and 4 private
individuals. The national associations included the American
Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), the
Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety (AHAS), the American Traffic
Safety Services Association (ATSSA), and the National Committee on
Uniform Traffic Control Devices (NCUTCD). One of the 20 docket
submissions was a request from the NCUTCD for a time extension of the
docket comment period. In response to this request, on June 14, 2006,
the FHWA published a notice in the Federal Register at 71 FR 34297 to
extend the comment closing date from June 26, 2006, to July 21, 2006.
While four of the docket submissions addressed all of the proposed
changes, the majority of the letters to the docket addressed specific
proposed changes. The FHWA considered each of these comments in
adopting this final rule. These issues are identified and addressed
under the appropriate section below.
Section-by-Section Discussion of Changes
Section 655.601 Purpose
The FHWA is removing the reference to the Standard Alphabets for
Highway Signs (SAHS) by removing paragraph (b). The SAHS, 1966 Edition,
is outdated and no longer exists as a separate document. The FHWA now
publishes the SAHS as part of the Standard Highway Signs (SHS) Book.
The SHS Book is referenced in MUTCD Section 1A.11 and throughout MUTCD
Part 2. The SHS Book is also posted on the MUTCD Web page at https://
mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov. The FHWA received five comments in support of this
change and no comments opposed. This change will be adopted without
modification in the final rule.
Section 655.603 Standards
``Open to Public Travel''
The FHWA is revising the language in 23 CFR 655.603(a) to clarify
that, for the purpose of MUTCD applicability, the phrase ``open to
public travel'' includes toll roads and roads within shopping centers,
parking lots, airports, sports arenas, and other similar business and
recreation facilities that are privately owned but where the public is
allowed to travel without access restrictions. Military bases and other
gated properties where access is restricted and private railroad grade
crossings are not included in the term ``open to public travel.''
Eleven comments generally supported this clarification but offered
potential areas of concern for consideration by the FHWA, and one
comment opposed this clarification. Based on the comments received, the
FHWA has modified the clarification to include parking lots on the list
of examples where the term ``open to public travel'' applies, and to
include military bases and other gated properties as examples of what
is not included in the term. We have also indicated that the
clarification of ``open to public travel'' is for the purpose of MUTCD
applicability only. It is important to note that FHWA's intent is only
to provide some general examples of what is meant by ``open to public
travel'' because we recognize that it would not be possible to list
them all.
Of the 11 docket comments in support of this clarification, some
expressed the following concerns: (1) This could create an unreasonable
State responsibility to mandate compliance without the necessary
authority; (2) Without enforcement, the intent of this change would be
undermined; (3) It is not reasonable to expect all private property
owners to have the means and expertise to place and maintain standard
traffic control devices; and (4) The language needs to consider State
law.
The FHWA does not believe it is necessary for State and/or local
highway agencies to have specific authority or enforcement
responsibility for traffic control devices on private roads. This
change to 23 CFR part 655 does not require State or local agencies to
police the private properties open to public travel to ensure
compliance with the MUTCD. However, this change does make it clear that
private roads open to public travel are subject to the same traffic
control standards as public streets and highways. Therefore, owners or
parties responsible for such private roads are encouraged to bring the
traffic control devices into compliance with the MUTCD and other
applicable State Manuals.
The FHWA believes that the change to 23 CFR 655.603(a) will clarify
the application of this term, create awareness of the applicability of
the MUTCD to certain private properties, improve safety, and increase
the uniformity of traffic control devices on roads used by the general
public.
``Substantial Conformance''
23 CFR 655.603(b)(1) provides that where State or other Federal
agency MUTCDs or supplements are required, they shall be in
``substantial conformance'' with the National MUTCD as approved by the
FHWA Division Administrator. The FHWA proposed to define ``substantial
conformance'' to mean that the State MUTCD or supplement shall conform
as a minimum to the standard statements included in the National MUTCD.
Standard statements in the MUTCD describe required practices and are
indicated by the term ``shall.'' The FHWA also proposed to define
``substantial conformance'' to mean that the guidance statements
contained in the National MUTCD also are expected to be in the State
Manual or supplement unless the reason for not including it is
satisfactorily explained based on engineering judgment or a documented
engineering study. Guidance statements in the MUTCD describe
recommended practices and are indicated by the term ``should.'' Under
the proposed definition, a State Manual or supplement could not be less
prescriptive than the MUTCD but it could be more prescriptive; meaning,
for example, that a guidance or ``should'' statement in the National
MUTCD could not be an option in the State Manual, but that it could be
a standard or ``shall'' statement. The Division Administrator and the
FHWA Associate Administrator of the Federal Lands Highway Program have
the flexibility to determine on a case-by-case basis the degree of
variation allowed.
Seven comments generally supported this change but offered
potential areas of concern for consideration by the FHWA, and 10
comments opposed this proposed change. Some of the areas of
[[Page 75113]]
concern from those who supported the change included the following: (1)
Agree that there needs to be a definition but do not agree that all
``shalls'' must be included. (2) Agree, but what happens if States have
specific legislation which conflicts with the standards. (3) The
proposed definition is fundamentally sound, but will be challenging to
meet because of statutory laws that differ from the MUTCD. (4) This
change puts unfair liability on cities, particularly the part of the
definition that suggests State Manuals or supplements cannot be less
prescriptive than the National MUTCD. In urban conditions, there may be
any number of reasons why a less prescriptive proposal would still meet
the goal of providing adequate uniformity (i.e., the MUTCD requires
overhead signs for all HOV but in urban areas this may not be
possible).
Some of the comments from those opposed to this change included the
following: (1) A State's right to use alternative techniques that are
equal to or better than the MUTCD should be protected. (2) The
definition does not allow flexibility to accommodate State and local
issues. (3) States should retain the option to deviate from standard
statements. (4) In some situations, legislative action would put the
State in conflict with the National MUTCD.
The FHWA agrees with the comments above that suggest this
regulation should address the impact of State laws that may force non-
conformance with the National MUTCD and should allow more flexibility
to accommodate State and local issues. Therefore, in addition to the
definition provided for substantial conformance as it applies to the
standard statements in the National MUTCD, the FHWA is also adding the
following sentence to 23 CFR 655.603(b)(1) to address these comments:
``The FHWA Division Administrators and Associate Administrator for the
Federal Lands Highway Program may grant exceptions in cases where a
State MUTCD or supplement cannot conform to standard statements in the
National MUTCD because of the requirements of a specific State law that
was in effect prior to the effective date of this final rule, provided
that the Division Administrator or Associate Administrator determines
based on information available and documentation received from the
State that the non-conformance does not create a safety concern.'' In
addition to the definition for substantial conformance as it applies to
the guidance statements in the National MUTCD, the FHWA is modifying
the sentence to read: ``The guidance statements contained in the
National MUTCD shall also be in the State Manual or supplement unless
the reason for not including it is satisfactorily explained based on
engineering judgment, specific conflicting State law, or a documented
engineering study.'' Finally, since the FHWA is adding flexibility in
the description of substantial conformance as it relates to standard
and guidance statements in the National MUTCD, the FHWA agrees that
describing State Manuals or supplements in terms of being either ``less
prescriptive'' or ``more prescriptive'' is not necessary and the
language has been removed from this final rule.
These additional comments were also submitted to the docket and
were handled as follows: (1) Defining substantial conformance should be
left up to the Division Office in each State. (2) Eliminates right of
practitioner to exercise engineering judgment and destroys the only
current method by which FHWA employees get to consult and exchange
ideas with practitioners. (3) States should not have to incur cost of
engineering study to deviate from guidance statements. The FHWA
believes that the concern about the Division Office involvement is
already addressed because the Division Administrator is an integral
part of the process for adopting State Manuals or supplements and this
does not change by incorporating any of these changes in the final
rule. The FHWA believes that the comment about ``engineering judgment''
is also addressed in that States have a choice of using engineering
judgment to explain deviations from the guidance statements and unlike
an engineering study, engineering judgment does not involve a cost. One
comment suggested that FHWA should conduct a thorough review of State
exceptions or supplements and search for ways to improve the 2003 MUTCD
before making this change. The FHWA believes that this comment is
beyond the intent of this rulemaking activity.
``Issuance Date''
In the current Sec. 655.603(b)(1), States or other Federal
agencies are required to adopt the National MUTCD within 2 years of
issuance any changes. The term ``issuance date'' is incorrect
nomenclature and the FHWA is changing this term to ``effective date.''
The effective date occurs 30 days after a final rule is published in
the Federal Register in order to allow parties affected by the rule a
reasonable time to prepare for the effective date of a rule, or to take
any other action which a final rule may prompt. The FHWA is also moving
this discussion to new paragraph (b)(3). The FHWA received four
comments in support of this change and no comments opposed. This change
will be adopted without modification in the final rule.
Two-Year Adoption Period for States That Automatically Adopt the MUTCD
The FHWA is revising the second sentence in Sec. 655.603(b)(1) to
include language that will provide the Division Administrators and the
Associate Administrator of the Federal Lands Highway Program the
flexibility to allow States that automatically adopt the MUTCD
immediately upon the effective date, the option of a 2-year adoption
period. This will give States the opportunity to use their existing
stocks of certain noncompliant traffic control devices and complete
construction projects with previously approved plans that have certain
non-compliant traffic control devices under the new MUTCD. The FHWA is
also moving this discussion to new Sec. 655.603(b)(3). The FHWA
received five comments in support of this change and no comments
opposed. This change will be adopted without modification in the final
rule.
Reorganization and Editorial Changes
In 23 CFR 655.603(b)(2), the FHWA is combining the first sentence,
which gives the FHWA Associate Administrator of the Federal Lands
Highway Program approval authority for Federal land management
agencies' MUTCDs, with the discussion in 23 CFR 655.603(b)(1) which
discusses the Division Administrator's authority to approve State
MUTCDs and supplements. The second sentence in paragraph (b)(2) will
now become the first and only sentence for paragraph (b)(2).
The FHWA is amending Sec. 655.603(c) by removing footnote number
and footnote reference ``2'' and adding in its place footnote number
and footnote reference ``1''.
The FHWA is moving the discussion in Sec. 655.603(d)(4) to Sec.
655.603(d)(1). The discussion in Sec. 655.603(d)(4) about the FHWA's
option to establish target dates for achieving compliance with changes
in the MUTCD is more appropriate for inclusion in Sec. 655.603(d)(1).
Therefore, Sec. 655.603(d)(4) is removed.
The FHWA is removing Sec. 655.603(e). This paragraph was
originally included when the Specific Service Sign Program was first
adopted on January 23, 1969, so that interested persons would be
directed to the MUTCD for more details. Since the Specific Service Sign
Program has been in the MUTCD for 35 years and
[[Page 75114]]
the public is very familiar with this program, the FHWA believes that
this information is no longer necessary or appropriate for inclusion in
Title 23, Code of Federal Regulations.
The FHWA received three comments in support and no comments opposed
to the above reorganization and editorial changes. These changes will
be adopted without modification in the final rule.
Section 655.604 Achieving Basic Uniformity
In Sec. 655.604, paragraphs (a) and (b) indicate that the
systematic upgrading of existing traffic control devices and
installation of devices should be based on inventories made in
accordance with 23 CFR 1204.4. That section refers to a program
required by the former Highway Safety Program Standard Number 13,
Traffic Engineering Services (23 CFR 1204.4), a NHTSA regulation that
no longer exists. Therefore, the FHWA is removing this reference to 23
CFR 1204.4. The FHWA received five comments in support of this change
and no comments opposed. Two of the comments that supported this change
and understood why we are removing the outdated reference, did not
agree with downgrading the contents of 23 CFR 1204.4 from standards to
guidelines. This particular comment is outside the scope of this effort
to update the information in 23 CFR part 655 and has not been addressed
in this document. This change will be adopted without modification in
the final rule.
Rulemaking Analysis and Notices
Executive Order 12866 (Regulatory Planning and Review) and U.S. DOT
Regulatory Policies and Procedures
The FHWA has determined that this action would not be a significant
regulatory action within the meaning of Executive Order 12866 or
significant within the meaning of U.S. Department of Transportation
regulatory policies and procedures. These changes are not anticipated
to adversely affect, in any material way, any sector of the economy.
The FHWA expects that these changes will provide clarity at little or
no additional expense to public agencies or the motoring public. In
addition, these changes would not create a serious inconsistency with
any other agency's action or materially alter the budgetary impact of
any entitlements, grants, user fees, or loan programs. Therefore, a
full regulatory evaluation is not required.
Regulatory Flexibility Act
In compliance with the Regulatory Flexibility Act (Pub. L. 96-354,
5 U.S.C. 601-612), the FHWA has evaluated the effects of these changes
on small entities and has determined that this action would not have a
significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.
This rule updates the authorities of the FHWA and referenced
documents regarding MUTCD compliance on existing highways. Such updates
will provide transportation entities with the appropriate points of
contact regarding the MUTCD. The FHWA hereby certifies that these
revisions would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial
number of small entities.
Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
This final rule would not impose unfunded mandates as defined by
the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (Pub. L. 104-4, 109 Stat. 48,
March 22, 1995). This action will not result in the expenditure by
State, local, and tribal governments, in the aggregate, or by the
private sector, of $128.1 million or more in any one year (2 U.S.C.
1532).
Executive Order 13132 (Federalism)
This action has been analyzed in accordance with the principles and
criteria contained in Executive Order 13132 dated August 4, 1999, and
the FHWA has determined that this action would not have sufficient
federalism implications to warrant the preparation of a federalism
assessment. The FHWA has also determined that this rulemaking will not
preempt any State law or State regulation or affect the States' ability
to discharge traditional State governmental functions.
Executive Order 13175 (Tribal Consultation)
The FHWA has analyzed this action under Executive Order 13175,
dated November 6, 2000, and believes that it would not have substantial
direct effects on one or more Indian tribes; would not impose
substantial direct compliance costs on Indian tribal governments; and
would not preempt tribal law. Therefore, a tribal summary impact
statement is not required.
Executive Order 13211 (Energy Effects)
The FHWA has analyzed this action under Executive Order 13211,
Actions Concerning Regulations That Significantly Affect Energy Supply,
Distribution, or Use. We have determined that it is not a significant
energy action under that order because it is not likely to have a
significant adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use of
energy. Therefore, a Statement of Energy Effects under Executive Order
13211 is not required.
Executive Order 12372 (Intergovernmental Review)
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance program Number 20.205,
Highway Planning and Construction. The regulations implementing
Executive Order 12372 regarding intergovernmental consultation on
Federal programs and activities apply to this program.
Paperwork Reduction Act
Under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA) (44 U.S.C. 3501, et
seq.), Federal agencies must obtain approval from the Office of
Management and Budget (OMB) for each collection of information they
conduct, sponsor, or require through regulations. The FHWA has
determined that this action does not contain collection information
requirements for purposes of the PRA.
Executive Order 12988 (Civil Justice Reform)
This action meets applicable standards in sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2)
of Executive Order 12988, Civil Justice Reform, to minimize litigation,
eliminate ambiguity, and reduce burden.
Executive Order 13045 (Protection of Children)
The FHWA has analyzed this action under Executive Order 13045,
Protection of Children from Environmental Health Risks and Safety
Risks. The FHWA certifies that this action would not concern an
environmental risk to health or safety that may disproportionately
affect children.
Executive Order 12630 (Taking of Private Property)
The FHWA does not anticipate that this action would affect a taking
of private property or otherwise have taking implications under
Executive Order 12630, Governmental Actions and Interference with
Constitutionally Protected Property Rights.
National Environmental Policy Act
The agency has analyzed this action for the purpose of the National
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321-4347) and has
determined that it would not have any effect on the quality of the
environment.
Regulation Identification Number
A regulation identification number (RIN) is assigned to each
regulatory action listed in the Unified Agenda of Federal Regulations.
The Regulatory Information Service Center publishes the Unified Agenda
in April and
[[Page 75115]]
October of each year. The RIN contained in the heading of this document
can be used to cross reference this action with the Unified Agenda.
List of Subjects in 23 CFR Part 655
Design standards, Grant programs--transportation, Highways and
roads, Incorporation by reference, Signs, Traffic regulations.
Issued on: December 7, 2006.
J. Richard Capka,
Federal Highway Administrator.
0
In consideration of the foregoing, the FHWA amends title 23, Code of
Federal Regulations, part 655, subpart F as follows:
PART 655--TRAFFIC OPERATIONS
0
1. The authority citation for part 655 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 23 U.S.C. 101(a), 104, 109(d), 114(a), 217, 315, and
402(a); 23 CFR 1.32; and, 49 CFR 1.48(b).
Sec. 655.601 [Amended]
0
2. Amend Sec. 655.601 by removing paragraph (b) and by redesignating
paragraphs (c) and (d) as paragraphs (b) and (c), respectively.
0
3. Amend Sec. 655.603 by revising paragraphs (a) and (b); amending
paragraph (c), by redesignating footnote 2 as footnote 1; by revising
paragraph (d)(1); and by removing paragraphs (d)(4) and (e) to read as
follows:
Sec. 655.603 Standards.
(a) National MUTCD. The MUTCD approved by the Federal Highway
Administrator is the national standard for all traffic control devices
installed on any street, highway, or bicycle trail open to public
travel in accordance with 23 U.S.C. 109(d) and 402(a). For the purpose
of MUTCD applicability, open to public travel includes toll roads and
roads within shopping centers, parking lot areas, airports, sports
arenas, and other similar business and/or recreation facilities that
are privately owned but where the public is allowed to travel without
access restrictions. Military bases and other gated properties where
access is restricted and private highway-rail grade crossings are not
included in this definition.
(b) State or other Federal MUTCD. (1) Where State or other Federal
agency MUTCDs or supplements are required, they shall be in substantial
conformance with the National MUTCD. Substantial conformance means that
the State MUTCD or supplement shall conform as a minimum to the
standard statements included in the National MUTCD. The FHWA Division
Administrators and Associate Administrator for the Federal Lands
Highway Program may grant exceptions in cases where a State MUTCD or
supplement cannot conform to standard statements in the National MUTCD
because of the requirements of a specific State law that was in effect
prior to the effective date of this final rule, provided that the
Division Administrator or Associate Administrator determines based on
information available and documentation received from the State that
the non-conformance does not create a safety concern. The guidance
statements contained in the National MUTCD shall also be in the State
Manual or supplement unless the reason for not including it is
satisfactorily explained based on engineering judgment, specific
conflicting State law, or a documented engineering study. The FHWA
Division Administrators shall approve the State MUTCDs and supplements
that are in substantial conformance with the National MUTCD. The FHWA
Associate Administrator of the Federal Lands Highway Program shall
approve other Federal land management agencies MUTCDs and supplements
that are in substantial conformance with the National MUTCD. The FHWA
Division Administrators and the FHWA Associate Administrators for the
Federal Lands Highway Program have the flexibility to determine on a
case-by-case basis the degree of variation allowed.
(2) States and other Federal agencies are encouraged to adopt the
National MUTCD in its entirety as their official Manual on Uniform
Traffic Control Devices.
(3) States and other Federal agencies shall adopt changes issued by
the FHWA to the National MUTCD within two years from the effective date
of the final rule. For those States that automatically adopt the MUTCD
immediately upon the effective date of the latest edition or revision
of the MUTCD, the FHWA Division Administrators have the flexibility to
allow these States to install certain devices from existing inventory
or previously approved construction plans that comply with the previous
MUTCD during the two-year adoption period.
* * * * *
(d) Compliance--(1) Existing highways. Each State, in cooperation
with its political subdivisions, and Federal agency shall have a
program as required by 23 U.S.C. 402(a), which shall include provisions
for the systematic upgrading of substandard traffic control devices and
for the installation of needed devices to achieve conformity with the
MUTCD. The FHWA may establish target dates of achieving compliance with
changes to specific devices in the MUTCD.
* * * * *
0
4. Revise the first sentence of paragraph (a) and the first sentence of
paragraph (b) of Sec. 655.604 to read as follows:
Sec. 655.604 Achieving basic uniformity.
(a) Programs. Programs for the orderly and systematic upgrading of
existing traffic control devices or the installation of needed traffic
control devices on or off the Federal-aid system should be based on
inventories made in accordance with the Highway Safety Program
Guideline 21, ``Roadway Safety.'' * * *
(b) Inventory. An inventory of all traffic control devices is
recommended in the Highway Safety Program Guideline 21, ``Roadway
Safety.'' * * *
[FR Doc. E6-21228 Filed 12-13-06; 8:45 am]
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