At MZB Engineering Inc., we specialize in preparing compliant, city-approved Temporary Traffic Control Plans (TTCPs) that prioritize safety and minimize disruption. Whether your project involves trenching, utility installation, or crane placement, a well-developed TTCP is critical to project success and public safety.

Here’s what every effective TTCP should include:

 1. Show Accurate Existing Conditions

Your plan must reflect:

• Existing striping and lane configurations

• Cross streets and traffic signals

• Driveways, curb zones, and signage affected by the project

Clearly show any driveways to be blocked and signs to be covered during construction.

 2. One Phase, One Sheet

Where possible, show each phase on a single sheet. Limit match lines to avoid confusion.

 3. Include All Transportation Modes

TTCPs must accommodate:

• Pedestrians

• Bicycles

• Public transit

• Vehicles

Accessibility and safety for all users is a core requirement.

 4. Proper Signage with MUTCD Codes

Every sign must be labeled with the MUTCD code. Include a sign legend on each sheet for only the signs used on that sheet — no sign images in the plan body.

 5. Describe the Proposed Work

Include a clear description of the work being done (e.g., “trenching for conduit installation”). Use visual aids like lines to show trench routes if applicable.

 6. Logical Phasing

Each phase should be:

• Clearly labeled

• Logically ordered

• Safe for overlapping work (e.g., utility lines)

 7. Avoid Full Road Closures

Instead of closing roads, use:

• Phased setups

• Contra-flow lanes

• Partial lane closures

Minimize disruptions to traffic flow.

 8. Crosswalks: Only One at a Time

No more than one crosswalk may be closed at any time to maintain safe pedestrian movement.

 9. Maintain 5 ft Clearance at Excavations

Keep a 5-foot buffer between any open trench and a travel lane. Clearly show this on your plan.

 10. Use “OPEN TRENCH” Signs

Install C27(CA) OPEN TRENCH warning signs on all approaches to the excavation.

 11. Lane Closed Signs Every 150 ft

If closures extend across multiple blocks, install C30(CA) or SC11(CA) “LANE CLOSED” signs:

• After each intersection

• Every 150 ft along the closure

 12. Channelizer Placement

• Align with existing lane striping

• For turn lane closures, place upstream to deter entry

 13. Steel Plate Warning

If steel plates are used, place W8-24 “STEEL PLATE AHEAD” signs on all approaches.

 14. Address Uneven Surfaces

If a lane is over ½ inch higher/lower than the next:

• Install C41(CA) UNEVEN signs

• For differences over 1 inch, provide a ramped transition with a 1:4 slope

 15. Protect Open Trenches

Use water-filled K-Rails or similar barriers near travel lanes. Always install C27(CA) OPEN TRENCH signs on all approaches.

 16. Show Work Location Clearly

Include either:

• A specific address (e.g., 1685 Main Street), or

• A street segment (e.g., Main St. between Bay St. and Bicknell St.)

 17. Include Contact Details

Mention the name, address, and phone number of the individual or company who prepared the TTCP.

 18. List Duration and Hours

Clearly show:

• Work hours and days

• Total project duration

• If setup is 24/7 or daily

If daily setup/removal is required, add this note to each sheet:

THE ROADWAYS SHOWN ON THIS PLAN SHALL BE OPEN AND UNOBSTRUCTED TO TRAFFIC BETWEEN 7 AM TO 9 AM AND 4 PM TO 7 PM. NO WORK OR TRAFFIC CONTROL SETUP/REMOVAL MAY OCCUR DURING THESE HOURS.

 19. No Type 1 Barricades on Major Streets

Use Type 2 or higher barricades for major roads.

 20. Dimension All Tapers

Clearly dimension all taper zones — merging, shifting, or shoulder tapers — to meet safety standards.

 21. Label Each Phase on Every Sheet

Each sheet must indicate:

• Phase name or number

• Estimated duration for that phase

 22. Include Complete Work Schedule

Specify:

• Number of working days

• Work hours (e.g., 8 AM – 5 PM)

• Workdays (e.g., weekdays, weekends, or both)

 Need Help with Your TTCP?

At MZB Engineering Inc., we specialize in accurate, fast, and city-compliant Traffic Control Plans with:

•  Same-Day Turnaround Available

•  Guaranteed Approval

•  Unlimited Revisions at No Extra Cost

Get your plan approved the first time. Contact us today to get started!