3M Sign Grant Program Update

In January 2009, 3M announced the availability of a new grant program to help government agencies improve roadway safety through the use of higher performance retroreflective material on traffic signs. The grant subsidizes agencies that are trying to meet the FHWA Minimum Levels of Retroreflectivity mandate.

"We are very pleased with response to the grant program through the first two months. We have already issued 190 grants representing over $1 million to our customers to help them increase road safety," said Tom McGlynn, director of the highway safety business unit. "We have also seen a significant number of agencies applying for grants for our 'full cube' Diamond Grade DG³ technology. I encourage all of our customers to visit our web site, www.3MSignGrants.com, and take the Full Cube Challenge."

The FHWA's ruling on minimum levels of traffic sign retroreflectivity went into effect on January 22, 2008. From that date, agencies have:

• Four years to implement and continue using an assessment or management method to maintain traffic sign retroreflectivity at or above the established minimum levels.
• Seven years for replacement of regulatory, warning and ground-mounted signs (except street name signs) that fail to meet the established minimum levels.
• Ten years for replacement of street name signs and overhead guide signs that fail to meet the established minimum levels.

The 3M Sign Grant Program offers significant savings to agencies working toward compliance. All agencies currently using ASTM Type I or II sheeting are eligible for a one-time grant for sign upgrades to 3M prismatic sheeting. Grants are available for roll goods or finished signs and must be redeemed within 90 days.