The crossbuck sign, numbered R15-1, must be reflectorized white with the words "RAILROAD CROSSING" in black lettering. If there are two or more tracks, including sidings, the number of tracks must be shown on an auxiliary sign, numbered R15-2, of inverted "T" shape, mounted below the crossbuck. Use of the crossbuck and the auxiliary sign, both shown in part 8830.9911, must comply with the MMUTCD and part 8830.9901, subpart 1.
The crossbuck sign must be constructed of four-foot (1.2-meter), 90-degree blades of a material that meets or exceeds the physical properties of metal, and, at nonsignalized grade crossings, must be mounted on a post that meets the breakaway criteria of the Standard Specifications for Structural Supports for Highway Signs, Luminaires and Traffic Signals manual.
By January 1, 1997, crossbucks at nonsignalized grade crossings must be double-faced, with both sides having a reflectorized white background with black lettering, to display the message "RAILROAD CROSSING" to both approaches to the grade crossing. A reflectorized strip of at least two inches (50 millimeters) by 48 inches (1,200 millimeters) will be placed on aluminum sheeting or an equivalent material and mounted on the back of the crossbuck posts, one foot (0.3 meter) above the top of the track and in the center of the post.
Crossbucks at signalized grade crossings must be either:
After a crossbuck reflectorized with wide-angle, prismatic, retroreflective sheeting or with a material that is equivalent is installed, future replacement of that crossbuck by the rail carrier must be to at least the same level of reflectorization.
The crossbuck sign must be furnished, installed, maintained, and paid for by the rail carrier. An additional crossbuck sign must be installed when there is more than one track and the tracks are separated by 100 feet (30 meters) or more, as measured from the center of each track along the center line of the roadway, unless the commissioner determines that it is not physically possible to make such an installation. Crossbuck signs must be located in compliance with the MMUTCD and part 8830.9901, subpart 1.
Minn. R. agency 175, ch. 8830, SIGNS, SIGNALS, OTHER SAFETY MEASURES, pt. 8830.0500
Statutory Authority: MS s 218.071; 219.073; 219.165; 219.17; 219.384; 222.50; 222.58; 222.63