Approval - Rapid Rectangular Flashing Beacons, IA-21

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has approved the Michigan Department of Transportation’s (MDOT) request for a statewide approval of Interim Approval 21 for optional use of pedestrian-actuated Rectangular Rapid-Flashing Beacons (RRFB) at uncontrolled marked crosswalks.  A copy of the approval memo is attached.  New RRFBs may now be installed in accordance with the technical requirements contained in IA-21.

One requirement of the statewide Interim Approval is maintaining an inventory list of all locations at which a RRFB is installed.  Therefore the MDOT is requesting agencies notify the MDOT of all new installations (regardless of the presence or absence of federal funding) by sending an email to blazop@michigan.gov noting the county of installation, city/village if applicable, road name of installation with the direction of traffic it pertains to, direction and approximate distance from nearest cross street, and installation year.

Example:  Michigan County, city of MDOT, NB State Street, 500’ south of Robin Street, 2018

Existing RRFB units that use the flashing sequence that was specified in the previous Interim Approval 11 memorandum and a subsequent interpretation should be reprogrammed to the flash pattern specified in the current Interim Approval 21 when the units are serviced or when the signs are replaced.  A summary of changes from IA-11 is attached.  Please inform the MDOT of the location of these existing RRFBs as well.

Questions regarding this ListServ message may be directed either to Pamela R. Blazo at blazop@michigan.gov, 517-335-2224, or to Tracie Leix at leixt@michigan.gov.