At the January 13th Council meeting in Crossville, an ordinance was adopted to enhance safety in work zones along public roadways. The primary goal is to protect both travelers and workers by requiring proper warning signage when any business, contractor, or individual parks a work vehicle on or partially in a public street.

Key requirements include placing an appropriate advance warning sign—such as “Work Zone,” “Caution,” “Utility Work Ahead,” or similar—in the direction of approaching traffic, ideally about 50 feet ahead of the vehicle (or as far as safely possible if site conditions like curves or narrow rights-of-way prevent the full distance).

Signs must be at least 24 inches by 24 inches, constructed of reflective material, clearly legible from 150 feet in daylight, and sufficiently reflective or illuminated to remain visible during nighttime, fog, or rain. Cones or markers used in conjunction must be at least 18 inches tall with reflective collars. All signage and devices need to stay upright, unobstructed, and visible throughout the work period, and must be promptly removed once the work is complete.

When activities occur on both sides of the street or affect multiple directions, warning signage must be provided for each direction of traffic flow. City departments will help spread awareness of the new rules, and residents are encouraged to inform anyone who might be performing such roadway work.