Authorizes and directs the commissioner of transportation and the thruway authority to establish a mileage-based exit numbering system

BILL NUMBER:S828

Title of bill

An act to amend the highway law and the public authorities law, in relation to establishing a mileage-based numbering system for exits along interstate highways within the state

Purpose of bill

To change the exit numbers on inter states from a chronological system to a mileage-based system.

Summary of provisions

Section 332 is added to the highway law to authorize the Commissioner of the Department of Transportation to develop and implement a plan to convert the exit numbers along interstate highways in New York to a mileage-based system.

Section 389 is added to the public authorities law to authorize the Thruway Authority, in consultation with the Department of Transportation, to develop and implement a plan to convert the exit numbers along interstate highways in New York to a mileage-based system.

The plan will include the following provisions:

(a) As closely as practicable, follow the Federal Highway Administration mileage-based exit numbering system.

(b) Follow the convention that the numbering shall start at the southernmost or westernmost terminus of the interstate.

(c) Minimize cost by using existing roadside and overhead signs whenever possible.

(d) For a period of two years the exit number of each exit prior to such conversion shall be displayed at each such exit.

(e) The mileage-based exit numbering system shall be completed on or before January 1, 2019.

Justification

Forty-three States currently use a mileage-based system of exit numbering.

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) recognizes two systems for numbering exits on the Dwight D Eisenhower Interstate and Defense Highway system; chronological and mileage-based.

The FHWA endorses the use of the mileage-based system and has included language in the proposed 2009 National MUTCD which would mandate the mileage based system. The FHWA notes that it is easier for travelers to navigate a system that is easy to follow and can make stressed drivers a little more at ease. By numbering the exits to coincide with

the mileage, travelers know how far they need to drive to arrive at their destination. Trip planning and stops become less of a problem for stressed or tired drivers who can take comfort in knowing how far they have to travel to rest at their destination.

Additionally, a mileage-based system of exit numbers makes numbering a newly inserted exit less confusing. Advantages of a mileage-based system are also seen in the efficiency it provides emergency teams. The mileage-based exit numbers system is recognized as a way to improve the navigation of emergency services and results in the speedy, accurate location of victims.

Legislative history

2007: Passed Senate 2008: Passed Senate 2010: Referred to Transportation 2012: Passed Senate 2014: Passed Senate

Fiscal implications

To be determined.

Effective date

This act shall take effect immediately.