Bringing River Oaks Into Compliance: Street Sign Updates and MUTCD Standards

mutcd11thedition.pdf

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Why Are the Street Signs in River Oaks Being Replaced?

The replacement of street signs in River Oaks is not just a cosmetic upgrade — it's a legal and safety requirement driven by county and federal standards.

1. Public Roads Require Compliant Signs

The streets within River Oaks are public roadways, which means all signage must comply with regulations set forth by:

• The county government

• The Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), which is the national standard for traffic signs, signals, and pavement markings

The MUTCD, published by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), outlines detailed requirements for:

• Sign size, shape, color, and reflectivity

• Lettering style and height

• Placement and mounting height

• Materials and durability

These standards ensure driver and pedestrian safety, visibility in various conditions, and uniformity so that signs are instantly recognizable and understandable across the country.

2. The Old Signs Did Not Meet Required Standards

The previous signs in River Oaks:

• Were not installed with the required county permits

• Did not comply with MUTCD guidelines

• Posed a liability risk to the community in the event of an accident or injury

While a former board approved and paid for the original signs, they were not up to code — a fact that was only identified later. If left unaddressed, this could have led to legal exposure for the HOA and all homeowners.

3. The Current Board Acted to Correct the Issue

Once this issue was brought to light, the current HOA board:

• Consulted with county officials

• Reviewed the MUTCD guidelines

• Took steps to remove the non-compliant signage

• Replaced it with signs that meet current safety and regulatory standards

This decision wasn't taken lightly — but it was necessary to protect the community’s long-term interests and avoid penalties, fines, or liability.

4. The MUTCD is Available for Review

To provide full transparency, the board has uploaded the 2023 MUTCD 11th Edition to the website. Homeowners are encouraged to review the document to understand the technical and legal standards that govern traffic signage on public roads.