Consider the needs of snow removal and storage when using an attenuator, and make sure it does not create a hazardous condition on the adjacent lanes immediately following a collision. Roadside Appurtenances Roadside appurtenances should be placed with maintenance access availability. Major maintenance requirements include painting, cleaning, replacing, and servicing fixtures of lighted signs and repairing or replacing support posts damaged by crashes or deterioration. Vandalism is a serious problem and demands serious maintenance efforts. Locate signs so that guardrail requirements are minimized, access is easily and safely available, visibility is not inhibited, conflict with landscaping and other highway elements is avoided, and vegetation control operations are not hampered.
Lighting improves visibility at night and thus greatly contributes to traffic safety.
Maintenance requirements include cleaning, relamping, repairs, and replacement. Sound walls and fences provide for protection and improve maintenance, but both require repair or replacement due to vehicular crashes, deterioration, vandalism, rock slides, etc. Roadside maintenance problems include managing vegetation growth by mowing or chemical application, collecting debris and litter, minimizing the adverse effects of deicing chemicals on turf and trees, controlling erosion, and repairing the results of vandalism. Of course, the drivers who use the roads cannot be ignored. The impact of these operations on the highway user is critical, and highway maintenance processes must accommodate the ever-present effect of traffic.