Preliminary traffic control planning is needed during the development of the geometric schematic to ensure that the ultimate design is constructable. Planning for traffic control in this phase of schematic development allows for the anticipation and mitigation of potential traffic disruptions during construction.

Early planning will reduce overall project costs by avoiding delays and redesign later on during the project due to requirements that are not considered soon enough (e.g., buffer zones, edge drop-offs, temporary pavement, temporary pedestrian access route (TPAR) barrier locations, extension of drainage structures, detention areas and offsets to travel lanes). Early traffic control planning also incorporates stakeholder input for preferred alternative routes, detours and construction scheduling.

Refer to the RDM for temporary traffic control criteria

. Consult the TMUTCD and the Traffic Standards to develop the preliminary traffic control plan.