Your Site May Need a Traffic Control Plan

Everything You Need to Know From Our TCP Experts

 

From a motorist’s perspective, seeing traffic cones and redirection could be a nuisance. To a project manager, the well-planned implementation of a Traffic Control Plan (TCP) is a critical part of keeping your project on schedule and budget.  christopher has a long history of producing high-quality Traffic Control Plans (TCPs) that will keep your site in compliance and reduce the risk of workplace injuries.

Our Urban Land Division has performed over 100 TCPs in DC alone so we feel confident in calling David Sharon, P.E. and Eli Goldman, P.E. experts!  We’ve asked them some questions that may help you identify when a TCP is needed, what to expect and how christopher can help.

First of all, what is a Traffic Control Plan?

A Traffic Control Plan, also known as a maintenance of traffic plan (MOT) is used to:

  • ensure the safe and efficient movement of vehicles, bicyclists and pedestrians through and/or around a work zone
  • coordinate and control the movement of workers, construction vehicles, and equipment on the site
  • inform all parties on site of the locations of all others.

The specifics of exactly what is required in a TCP is laid out in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). Some areas (DC and VA included) have additional requirements laid out in jurisdiction-specific work area protection manuals. ADA considerations must be observed, as well.

When is a TCP needed?

TCPs are needed for any construction work or access to construction sites that affect public space – also known as the public “right-of-way.” This could include roads, sidewalks and alleys.  The closure of a portion of a sidewalk, a road closure, a construction entrance, utility work, staging areas and scaffolding, are all examples of scenarios in which a TCP would both allow passage as well as preserve safety.

So does every project need a TCP?

Urban projects will typically need a TCP since most of them will have an impact on public space. A TCP is needed less often on suburban projects; however, any project impacting a public road, sidewalk and/or alley will still require one.

When in the life of a project should you schedule a TCP?

TCPs are needed during the construction phase of the project. For complex road and sidewalk closures, planning ahead is helpful to identify exactly how the site will be utilized and if the TCP will have any impacts on construction.

How long does a TCP take? 

The amount of time it takes to prepare a TCP depends on the complexity of the project. Usually, the christopher team can complete a TCP within a couple of days. Once complete, the plan is then submitted to the appropriate local jurisdiction for review.

How much does a TCP cost? 

Again, this will vary depending on the complexity of the plan, but the TCP design and preparation cost will typically be a small percentage of the overall project design cost.

Why christopher?

In DC alone, christopher has prepared over 100 Traffic Control Plans ranging in size from a minor sidewalk closure to a multi-phase large scale road and sidewalk closure. This experience has allowed us to develop the ability to anticipate site-specific needs and unique situations, drastically shortening the review process and keeping your project on schedule!

For more information, or to schedule a TCP for your project, contact: 

Eli Goldman, P.E.: eligoldman@ccl-eng.com
David Sharon, P.E.: davidsharon@ccl-eng.com