The TCD Consortium was originally established in 2003. It was previously Pooled Fund Project TPF-5(065) and TPF-5(316).

All new Funding Commitments will need to be made on the Pooled Fund Website to this new project and all new funds will be transferred to the Lead State/Agency by the partners. The Lead State/Agency will have the responsibility for Receiving, Obligating, Expending, and Balancing the funding for this project.

To assemble a consortium composed of State Departments of Transportation; additional interested entities or organizations; County, regional, and/or local transportation agencies; and FHWA program offices to meet national and state needs in support of the MUTCD. Activities of the consortium include:

    a) Identify human factors, safety, and operational issues related to TCDs;
    b) Select new and existing TCDs for evaluation;
    c) Initiate and monitor research projects;
    d) Disseminate results; and
    e) Facilitate collaboration and information sharing among members.

The following are examples of issues that have been addressed by the TCD PFS: 

·         Pavement markings for speed reduction

·         Signing and marking for roundabouts and alternative intersections

·         Pedestrian countdown signals

·         Colors for Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) only tollbooth lanes

·         Evaluation of new and existing symbol signs

·         Alternative flashing patterns

·         Diagrammatic and overhead arrow per lane guide signs

·         Lane reduction signing and marking

·         Sign conspicuity

Generic versions of potential devices may be tested as long as the device is not protected by a patent, trademark, or copyright, and that the traffic control device is in the public domain and may be used freely in traffic control device design and application without infringement or claim of trade secret misappropriation. 

For FY2023, the TCD PFS members voted to initiate the Comprehension and Legibility of Selected Symbol Signs Phase V project.