NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

SECTION 7
LIGHTING AND POWER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS
Table of Contents
Page No
7.1

7.2

GENERAL ................................................................................................................ 1
7.1.1

INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................... 1

7.1.2

CODES AND STANDARDS ................................................................................. 2

7.1.3

ALTERNATE EQUIPMENT AND MODIFICATION OF DESIGN CRITERIA .................... 3

7.1.4

REFERENCE PUBLICATIONS ............................................................................. 4

LIGHTING SYSTEM DESIGN .................................................................................. 4

7.2.1

LIGHTING W ARRANT ANALYSIS ........................................................................ 6

7.2.1.1
7.2.1.2
7.2.1.3
7.2.1.4
7.2.1.5
7.2.1.6
7.2.1.7
7.2.1.8

7.2.2

Roadway Lighting ........................................................................................ 7

Underbridge Lighting ................................................................................. 12
Sign Lighting.............................................................................................. 12
Roadway Tunnel Lighting........................................................................... 13
Parking Lot Lighting ................................................................................... 14
Storage Facilities and Maintenance Yards Lighting .................................... 14
Aesthetic Lighting ...................................................................................... 14
Navigation and Aviation Obstruction Lighting............................................. 14

REQUIRED AREA OF ILLUMINATION ................................................................ 14

7.2.2.1
7.2.2.2
7.2.2.3
7.2.2.4
7.2.2.5
7.2.2.6
7.2.2.7
7.2.2.8

Continuous Lighting on Roadways ............................................................. 15

Deceleration Lanes .................................................................................... 15
Acceleration Lanes .................................................................................... 17
Merge, Weaving, and Diverge Areas ......................................................... 18
Ramp Termini ............................................................................................ 20
Toll Plaza Merge Areas ............................................................................. 22
Parking / Maintenance / Storage Facilities ................................................. 24
Roadway Tunnels ...................................................................................... 24

7.2.3

LIGHTING DESIGN CRITERIA .......................................................................... 24

7.2.4

SELECTION OF ROADWAY LIGHTING SYSTEM ................................................. 27

7.2.4.1 Approved Roadway Lighting Systems ........................................................ 27
7.2.4.2 Selection of System ................................................................................... 29

7.2.5

DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS............................................................................. 31

7.2.6

LIGHTING CALCULATION METHOD .................................................................. 32

7.2.6.1
7.2.6.2
7.2.6.3
7.2.6.4

MAY 2007
Revised July 2010

Software and Setup ................................................................................... 32

Calculation Zones ...................................................................................... 33
Luminaires and Photometrics..................................................................... 34
Additional Considerations .......................................................................... 36

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

7.2.6.5 Verification of Lighting Design.................................................................... 36

7.3

LIGHTING EQUIPMENT AND MATERIALS ............................................................ 37

7.3.1

ROADWAY LIGHTING STANDARDS................................................................... 37

7.3.2

ROADWAY LIGHTING LUMINAIRES ................................................................... 42

7.3.3

HIGHMAST AND FLOODLIGHTING SYSTEMS ..................................................... 44

7.3.4

EMERGENCY LIGHTING AND GENERATOR BACKUP .......................................... 45

7.3.5

UNDERBRIDGE LIGHTING ............................................................................... 46

7.3.6

TOLL PLAZA LIGHTING ................................................................................... 47

7.3.7

ROADWAY TUNNEL LIGHTING ......................................................................... 47

7.3.8

MAINTENANCE AREA / STORAGE AREA LIGHTING ............................................ 47

7.3.9

PARKING LOT LIGHTING ................................................................................. 47

7.3.10 TEMPORARY ROADWAY LIGHTING .................................................................. 47

7.3.11 SIGN LIGHTING .............................................................................................. 49
7.3.12 NAVIGATION AND AVIATION OBSTRUCTION LIGHTING....................................... 49
7.3.13 LIGHTING STANDARD BASES AND JUNCTION BOX FOUNDATIONS ..................... 49
7.4

POWER DISTRIBUTION AND RACEWAY SYSTEM DESIGN ............................... 50

7.4.1

GENERAL ...................................................................................................... 50

7.4.2

ELECTRIC SERVICE........................................................................................ 50
7.4.2.1
7.4.2.2
7.4.2.3
7.4.2.4

General ...................................................................................................... 50
Building Electrical Services ........................................................................ 51
Services Not Located at Buildings.............................................................. 51
Utilized Voltage.......................................................................................... 51

7.4.3

CIRCUITRY AND VOLTAGE DROP .................................................................... 53

7.4.4

RACEWAY SYSTEM DESIGN............................................................................ 60

7.4.4.1 Underground Junction Boxes, Handholes, and Manholes ........................... 60
7.4.4.2 Conduits and Raceways ............................................................................. 61

7.4.5
7.5

7.6

TEMPORARY POWER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS ................................................ 67

POWER DISTRIBUTION AND RACEWAY SYSTEMS EQUIPMENT AND

MATERIAL .............................................................................................................. 68
7.5.1

CONDUITS, CABINETS, W IREWAYS AND FITTINGS............................................ 68

7.5.2

CABLES AND W IRES ...................................................................................... 70

7.5.3

STANDALONE LOAD CENTERS ........................................................................ 71

DESIGN SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS .............................................................. 71

7.6.1

PHASE A CONCEPTUAL DESIGN SUBMISSION................................................ 71

7.6.2

PHASE B SUBMISSION ................................................................................. 73

7.6.3

PRE-PHASE C SUBMISSION ......................................................................... 74

MAY 2007
Revised July 2010

NJTA Design Manual

7.7

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

7.6.4

PHASE C SUBMISSION ................................................................................ 76

7.6.5

PHASE D SUBMISSION ................................................................................ 76

PREPARATION OF CONTRACT DOCUMENTS.................................................... 76

7.7.1

PLANS .......................................................................................................... 76
7.7.1.1 Required Plans .......................................................................................... 76
7.7.1.2 Additional Plan Requirements.................................................................... 81
7.7.1.3 Standard Legends and Symbols ................................................................ 81

7.7.2

SPECIFICATIONS ........................................................................................... 82
List of Exhibits
Page No

Exhibit 7 - 1 Warranting Conditions for Complete Interchange Lighting.............................. 8

Exhibit 7 - 2 Warranting Conditions for Partial Interchange Lighting ................................... 9
Exhibit 7 - 3 Required Design Area for Typical Ramp ....................................................... 15
Exhibit 7 - 4 Required Design Area for Deceleration Lane................................................ 16
Exhibit 7 - 5 Required Design Area for Multiple Deceleration Lanes ................................. 16
Exhibit 7 - 6 Table of Distances for Deceleration Lane Lighting ....................................... 17
Exhibit 7 - 7 Required Design Area for Acceleration Lane ................................................ 17
Exhibit 7 - 8 Table of Distances for Acceleration Lane Lighting ........................................ 18
Exhibit 7 - 9 Required Design Area for Merge/Weaving Area ........................................... 19
Exhibit 7 - 10 Required Design Area for Diverge Area ...................................................... 20
Exhibit 7 - 11 Required Design Area for Typical Ramp Terminus ..................................... 21
Exhibit 7 - 12 Required Design Area for Ramp Terminus at Signalized Intersection ........ 21
Exhibit 7 - 13 Small Toll Plaza Design Area ...................................................................... 22
Exhibit 7 - 14 Large Toll Plaza Design Area ..................................................................... 23
Exhibit 7 - 15 Typical Design Area for Parking Facility ...................................................... 24
Exhibit 7 - 16 Table of Illumination and Uniformity Requirements ..................................... 25
Exhibit 7 - 17 Table of Light Loss Factors ......................................................................... 27
Exhibit 7 - 18 Lamp Types, Wattages, Lumens, and Rated Life ....................................... 36
Exhibit 7 - 19 Lighting Standard Designation Method ....................................................... 38
Exhibit 7 - 20 Typical Roadway Lighting Standard Arrangements .................................... 40
Exhibit 7 - 21 Type P Luminaire Installation Guidelines .................................................... 44
Exhibit 7 - 22 Sample Voltage Drop Calculation Forms 1 and 2 ....................................... 56
Exhibit 7 - 23 Table of Ballast Input Wattage / Current ..................................................... 60
Exhibit 7 - 24 Installation of Communications Conduit on Authority Bridges ..................... 65

MAY 2007
Revised July 2010

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

Exhibit 7 - 25 Communications Conduit Installation Details ............................................... 66

Exhibit 7 - 26 Schedule of Lighting Standards and Luminaires ......................................... 80

MAY 2007
Revised July 2010

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

SECTION 7
LIGHTING AND POWER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS
7.1

GENERAL
7.1.1

Introduction
Construction projects on the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State
Parkway will likely impact or require the construction of Lighting and Power
Distribution Systems.
These systems may include, but are not limited to, lighting installations for
new roadways, bridges, toll plazas, signs, parking areas, maintenance
facilities, and storage yards, and/or modifications to various existing systems
throughout the Turnpike and Parkway. They also include installation of
power to non-lighting equipment, such as traffic counting and weather
stations, loops, variable and changeable message signs, lane use signs,
warning lights, cameras, and other Intelligent Traffic Systems (ITS) devices
that require power.
This Section is not meant to describe the installation of specific ITS Systems
equipment, or installation of communications systems such as fiber,
telephone, and radio transmission. See Section 8 (ITS and Communications
Systems) of this Manual a discussion of installation for these systems. See
also Section 7 (Utility Installations, Relocations and Adjustments) of the
Procedures Manual for a discussion of Utility Installations.
Installation of raceway systems to be utilized for Communications Systems
shall be designed as described in this section, and as modified by Section 8
(ITS and Communications Systems) of this Manual.
For installation of Toll Plaza Systems, and power and lighting systems
installed within Authority buildings, see Section 11 (Facility Buildings/Toll
Plazas) of this Manual.
All traffic signal systems shall be designed and constructed in accordance
with the requirements of the New Jersey Department of Transportation, as
amended by local requirements of the signal owner or maintainer.
This Section is not intended to be a design handbook, but rather a guideline
covering the Authority's current standards for system design and preparation
of contract documents. It is essential that the basic criteria covered in this
manual be followed as closely as possible by the electrical engineering staff
of each Engineer in order to achieve uniform and consistent Lighting and
Power Distribution Systems throughout Turnpike and Parkway facilities.
Satisfying all of these criteria will necessitate sound judgment and good
engineering practice on the part of the Engineer. Where special designs
deviate from these basic criteria, the Engineer shall secure written approval

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7-1

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

from the Authoritys Engineering Department.

more information on this subject.

See Subsection 7.1.3 for

Lists of items or descriptions included in this Section in order to illustrate

various concepts shall not be interpreted as being all inclusive. Due to the
varied nature of the Authoritys Facilities, many exceptional cases may be
encountered.
Where information shown on or contained within the Standard Drawings or
Standard Specifications differs from the direction given in this Section, the
Engineer shall submit a written letter to the Authoritys Engineering
Department asking for clarification before commencing design of the
particular item in question. This procedure has been put in place to prevent
confusion during the various project reviews, and to prevent different
interpretations of the relevant design requirements after design has been
completed.
The Engineer should feel free, at any time, to contact the Authoritys
Engineering Department to receive consultation on extraordinary issues or
interpretations of this Section prior to design or submission.
Throughout this Section, reference is made to Standard Drawings that have
not been published as of the writing of this Manual. For more information
regarding these updated Standard Drawings, please contact the Authoritys
Engineering Department.
7.1.2

Codes and Standards

All Lighting and Power Distribution Systems shall be installed in compliance
with the National Electric Code (hereafter referred to as the NEC). The
version used shall be the same version adopted by the state of New Jersey
Department of Community Affairs Division of Codes and Standards
(hereafter referred to as the DCA) for use on all new construction projects
statewide.
As mentioned above, this Section is not meant to offer information on how to
design Lighting and Power Distribution Systems. Roadway and other
lighting systems shall be designed utilizing the procedures found in
AASHTO Publication GL-6 Roadway Lighting Design Guide and the other
reference publications listed below, and Power Distribution Systems shall be
designed in accordance with standard industry practice, codes, and sound
engineering judgment. This Section lists design and plan preparation
requirements that are specific to the needs of the Authority. In case of any
discrepancies between any other design guide and this Section, the
direction given in this Section shall govern. Submitted designs will be
reviewed according to the requirements of this Section and the other
recommended practices in the reference publications.
Where Authority-sponsored projects disrupt, modify, or install Lighting or
Power Distribution systems for other stakeholders, other codes and

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7-2

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

standards may apply. The Engineer shall determine at the start of the
project any additional codes and/or standards, and design manuals which
may apply, and shall submit a summary of the findings for the Phase A
Submission prior to any actual system design. If the various stakeholders
do not dictate an alternate method for design or construction, the
procedures and criteria listed herein shall apply.
7.1.3

Alternate Equipment and Modification of Design Criteria

The Engineer shall be responsible for the design of the Lighting and Power
Distribution Systems and preparation of the Plans and Specifications.
Standard electrical equipment is pre-approved by the Authority on an ongoing basis, and the approved model and drawing numbers are noted for
these items in the Electrical Standard Drawings (to be released at a later
date). The Engineer shall use, to the greatest extent possible, these
standard components when developing system designs.
When, in the opinion of the Engineer, criteria outlined in this Section cannot
be achieved using standard equipment due to unique physical or geometric
conditions or other limiting factors, the Engineer shall solicit the opinion of
the Authoritys Engineering Department. In such cases, the Engineer shall
submit a comprehensive analysis of design parameters, including supporting
calculations and related data, for approval.
The Authoritys Engineering Department shall have final approval of all
special inquiries made by Engineers in the course of seeking approval for
substitute or alternative equipment proposed for use on Turnpike or Parkway
projects, whether proposed by the Engineer or the Contractor.
When, in the opinion of the Engineer and according to sound engineering
judgment, it is not possible to meet the lighting, power, or electrical design
criteria outlined in this Section with any type of equipment due to unique
limiting factors, and/or the Engineer believes that the procedures and criteria
in this Section should be amended for a specific project, the Engineer shall
request a modification of design criteria. Requests for modifications to
criteria shall indicate the exact requirements to be waived and shall include
a description of the underlying engineering analysis. All requests for
modification shall be prepared on the Authoritys Design Element
Modification Request form and shall be prepared, submitted, and approved
as described in Section 3 (Submission Requirements) of the Procedures
Manual as part of the Phase A Submission. If any specific design criteria
are not met by a submitted design and appropriate Design Element
Modification Request forms have not been prepared and approved by the
Authoritys Engineering Department, the submission will be rejected without
further or complete review, and resubmission will be required.
Approval of non-standard equipment or modifications to design criteria on
one project or portion of a project shall not be interpreted as a mandate for

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7-3

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

similar waiver of Authority standards in other project locations without

separate requests submitted in accordance with the above procedures.
The implementation of all non-standard electrical equipment that is permitted
by the Authority as part of system design shall be reviewed and approved by
the Engineer prior to Contractors order, fabrication or use of such
equipment.
7.1.4

Reference Publications
The following publications have been referenced in developing this Section
for Lighting and Power Distribution Systems, and shall serve as a reference
to design information that is not specifically included in this manual.
An Informational Guide for Roadway Lighting. American Association of
State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO).
American National Standard Practice for Tunnel Lighting. Illuminating
Engineering Society of North America (IESNA). Publication Number RP-2296.
American National Standard Practice for Roadway Lighting. Illuminating
Engineering Society of North America (IESNA). Publication Number RP-800.
Roadway Lighting Design Guide. American Association of State Highway
and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). Publication Number GL-6.
Roadway Lighting Handbook. Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).
Standard Specifications. New Jersey Turnpike Authority, latest version.
Standard Electrical Drawings.
version.

New Jersey Turnpike Authority, latest

National Electric Code. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Publication Number NFPA 70.
Lighting Handbook. Illumination Engineering Society (IES).
NJDOT Design Manual. New Jersey Department of Transportation.
National Electric Safety Code.
Engineers, Inc. Publication C2.

7.2

Institute of Electrical and Electronics

LIGHTING SYSTEM DESIGN

Lighting systems for Turnpike and Parkway projects will be constructed using the
Contract Documents (Plans and Specifications) prepared by various Engineers.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7-4

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

The purpose of this Section, therefore, is to provide the Engineers with general
guidelines for the design and preparation of contract documents for Lighting
systems, so as to achieve uniform lighting installations between projects.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7-5

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

The Engineer shall advance a lighting design utilizing the following standard
process, which is described in detail in this section:
STEP 1 A Lighting Warrant Analysis shall be performed to assess the need for
and requirements of lighting within the project limits. The Lighting Warrant Analysis
shall indicate all lighting systems (see below) that may need to be installed.
STEP 2 Using the results of the completed Warrant Analysis, the Engineer shall
determine the specific areas throughout the project that are required to be lighted.
Boundaries indicating where lighting shall conform to applicable design standards
shall be defined, and the resulting Design Areas shall be used as the basis for
lighting calculations. The Engineer shall then determine the design criteria to be
used in completing the design.
STEP 3 The specific type(s) of lighting system equipment to be installed shall be
determined. Larger projects may require multiple lighting systems.
STEP 4 Lighting Calculations shall be performed to determine proper location of
lighting equipment.
STEP 5 The Lighting Plans and Details shall be developed to the Authoritys
standard requirements.
7.2.1

Lighting Warrant Analysis

This Subsection details the requirements for determining where fixed lighting
systems are required to be installed for new construction projects.
A Lighting Warrant Analysis shall be performed prior to any design for each
project in order to determine if and where lighting is required for the project.
The Warrant Analysis shall be used to determine where new lighting is to be
installed and where existing lighting shall remain. If the warrant analysis
indicates that existing lighting systems or lighting equipment is no longer
warranted, this equipment shall be removed as part of the project work.
The warrant analysis shall be provided for all projects, including those
projects that modify existing lighting systems, and shall include the following,
where applicable for each project:
1. Determination of the need for any Complete Freeway Lighting
2. Determination of the recommended roadway lighting system for each
interchange: Complete Interchange Lighting, or Partial Interchange
Lighting
3. Determination of the recommended roadway lighting system for Toll
Plazas, Parking Facilities, and/or Storage Areas
4. Areas where existing roadway lighting is no longer warranted, and will be
removed
5. Determination of the need for other lighting systems, including but not
limited to Underbridge Lighting, Roadway Tunnel Lighting, Sign Lighting,
and/or Navigation Lighting

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7-6

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

6. Indication of specific areas of the project (hereafter referred to as Design

Areas) that will be lighted, and those in which lighting is not required,
including specific Stationing if available (See Subsection 7.2.2 for more
information)
7. Indication of areas outside Authority jurisdiction that will be lighted by
systems that will be maintained by the Authority
8. Indication of areas outside Authority jurisdiction that will be lighted with
non-Authority owned-systems but that are being designed and
constructed by the Authority, including relevant warrant analysis and
design criteria
9. Any special project considerations or additional lighting systems required
for the project
The completed warrant analysis shall be submitted concurrently with the
Conceptual Illumination Design Plans and shall be included with the Phase
A Submission. The Phase B lighting system design shall not be
advanced prior to the Authoritys approval of the Engineers
recommendations for lighting system type and extent.
7.2.1.1 Roadway Lighting
Roadway lighting shall be interpreted to include all lighting on areas
that are considered traveled way, that is, areas that carry public
vehicular traffic from an origin to a destination.
Roadway lighting shall not be considered warranted solely because it
is currently installed on an Authority roadway, ramp, or facility. A
separate warrant analysis shall be performed for all roadways,
ramps, interchanges, and other facilities within project limits.
The Roadway Lighting Warrant Analysis shall be performed as
described in the AASHTO Publication GL-6 Roadway Lighting
Design Guide, and as excerpted below, with the following Authorityspecific requirements:
Continuous Freeway Lighting (CFL)
Continuous Freeway Lighting is a system [that] provides relatively
uniform lighting on all main lanes and direct connections, and
complete interchange lighting of all interchanges within the section
(AASHTO, GL-6).
Continuous Freeway Lighting shall be considered warranted only for
sections of freeway where the ratio of night to day crash rate is at
least 2.0 times the statewide average for all unlighted similar
sections, and a study indicates that lighting may be expected to
result in a significant reduction in the night crash rate, (Case
Number CFL-4 of AASHTO GL-6) or where required by special
project considerations and approved by the Authoritys Engineering
Department.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7-7

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

Complete Interchange Lighting (CIL)

Complete Interchange Lighting is a lighting system that provides
relatively uniform lighting within the limits of the interchange,
including main lanes, direct connections, ramp terminals, and
frontage roads or crossroad intersections (AASHTO GL-6).
If any one of the following conditions (in Exhibit 7 - 1 below) are met,
Continuous Interchange Lighting shall be considered warranted and
shall be installed for the interchange under consideration
EXHIBIT 7 - 1
WARRANTING CONDITIONS FOR COMPLETE INTERCHANGE LIGHTING
Case

Warranting Conditions

CIL-1

Where the total current ADT ramp traffic entering and leaving the
freeway within the interchange areas exceeds 10,000 for urban
conditions, 8,000 for suburban conditions, or 5,000 for rural conditions.

CIL-2

Where the current ADT on the crossroads exceeds 10,000 for urban
conditions, 8,000 for suburban conditions, or 5,000 for rural conditions.

CIL-3

Where existing substantial commercial or industrial development that is

lighted during hours of darkness is located in the immediate vicinity of
the interchange, or where the crossroads approach legs are lighted for
0.5 mile or more on each side of the interchange.

CIL-4

Where the ratio of night to day crash rate within the interchange area is
at least 1.5 times the statewide average for all unlighted similar
sections, and a study indicates that lighting may be expected to result
in a significant reduction in the night crash rate.
Where crash data are not available, rate comparison may be used as a
general guideline for crash severity.
Reprinted from Table 3-3 in Roadway Lighting Design Guide, AASHTO GL-6, American
Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. October 2005.

Where Complete Interchange Lighting is warranted, the following

roadways shall be lighted:
1. Deceleration lanes on the freeway mainline
2. Acceleration lanes on the freeway mainline
3. Ramps and Direct Connections continuous lighting from the
connection to the freeway mainline through their termini at the
limits of Authority jurisdiction
4. All Toll Plaza areas within the interchange under consideration
5. Other areas as required by special project considerations
Continuous lighting of the mainline lanes throughout the area of the
interchange shall not be provided unless Continuous Freeway
Lighting is warranted (see above) or because of other project-specific
MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7-8

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

considerations. For areas of the mainline to be lighted in the areas

of deceleration and acceleration lanes, and merge/diverge/weaving
areas, see Subsection 7.2.2.
Partial Interchange Lighting (PIL)
Partial Interchange Lighting is a system that provides illumination
only of decision making areas of roadways including acceleration
and deceleration lanes, ramp terminals, crossroads at frontage road
or ramp intersections, other areas of nighttime hazard (AASHTO GL6).
If Continuous Interchange Lighting is not warranted according to the
criteria above, and Case PIL-1, PIL-2, or PIL-3 are met according to
Exhibit 7 - 2 below, Partial Interchange Lighting shall be considered
warranted and shall be installed for the interchange under
consideration:
EXHIBIT 7 - 2
WARRANTING CONDITIONS FOR PARTIAL INTERCHANGE LIGHTING
Case
PIL-1

Warranting Conditions
Where the total current ADT ramp traffic entering and leaving the
freeway within the interchange areas exceeds 5,000 for urban
conditions, 3,000 for suburban conditions, or 1,000 for rural conditions.

PIL-2

Where the current ADT on the crossroads exceeds 25,000 for urban
conditions, 20,000 for suburban conditions, or 10,000 for rural
conditions.

PIL-3

Where the ratio of night to day crash rate within the interchange area is
at least 1.25 times the statewide average for all unlighted similar
sections, and a study indicates that lighting may be expected to result
in a significant reduction in the night crash rate.
Where crash data are not available, rate comparison may be used as a
general guideline for crash severity.
Reprinted from Table 3-4 in Roadway Lighting Design Guide, AASHTO GL-6, American
Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. October 2005.

Where Partial Interchange Lighting is warranted, the following

roadways shall be lighted:
1.
2.
3.
4.

Deceleration lanes on the freeway mainline

Acceleration lanes on the freeway mainline
Ramps terminals
Toll Plaza Merge Areas within the
consideration
5. Merge Areas / Lane Drops
6. Decision Points

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

interchange

under

7-9

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

7. Other areas of nighttime hazard

8. Other areas as required by special project considerations
Bridge Lighting
Continuous roadway lighting shall be considered warranted on longspan bridges (total bridge length in excess of 300 feet) only where
both shoulders are substandard. Lighting equipment on existing
bridges that have at least one adequate shoulder, or are being
widened to have at least one adequate shoulder, shall be removed
as a result of project work.
Roadway lighting shall be provided on short-span bridges (total
bridge length less than 300 feet) only where required by other
warrants in this section for example, where short-span bridges
occur in an interchange where complete interchange lighting is
warranted.
Lighting of bridges and overpasses shall be at the same level as
the adjoining roadways where practical. See Design Manual
Section 2.6 regarding additional design criteria for bridge
mounted lighting.
Toll Plaza Merge Areas
All Toll Plaza Merge Areas shall be lighted.
U-Turn and Restricted Access Roadways
Lighting shall not be provided unless directed by the Authoritys
Engineering Department.
Service Area Roadways
Lighting on ramps to and from service areas, including acceleration
lanes, deceleration lanes, and direct connections shall be considered
warranted, and shall be installed.
Merge/Diverge Areas
Lighting shall be considered warranted and shall be installed for all
merge, weaving, and diverge areas where two major roadways either
come together or split. Required lighting of merge and diverge areas
shall not be interpreted to warrant installation of lighting on every
lane drop and lane add on the mainline, where other warrants in this
section are not met. The Engineer shall analyze the requirements for
lighting where lanes are added / dropped as described below in the
discussion of Special Project Considerations.
Lighting on Roadways of other jurisdictions
Authority-maintained lighting shall be provided on roadways outside
Authority jurisdiction only where directed or approved in advance by
MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 10

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

the Authoritys Engineering Department. Typical situations where

lighting on roadways of other jurisdictions may be directed are:
1. On bridges, where the Authority roadway passes over or under a
local roadway
2. For safety, where an Authority facility is frequently used by
pedestrians
3. Where, by prior agreement, the Authority assumes maintenance
of a system as a condition of construction
4. At certain signalized intersections
The Engineer shall coordinate with the Authoritys Engineering
Department to determine the need for any lighting on roadways of
other jurisdictions, and indicate the resolution of this coordination as
part of the Phase A Submission.
Areas outside Authority jurisdiction
A separate warrant analysis shall be performed on all areas outside
Authority jurisdiction where lighting may be installed as a result of
project work. Warrant analyses for lighting for roadways and areas
under NJDOT jurisdiction shall be performed in accordance with the
NJDOT Design Manual. Warrant analyses for local roadways under
other jurisdictions, including roadways passing under or over
Authority structures shall be performed as per the requirements of
the local jurisdiction, or as required elsewhere by this manual.
Special Project Considerations
Additional lighting may be warranted for any of the following projectspecific considerations:
1. Roadways with non-standard geometry, tight radii, or visibility
concerns
2. Roadway areas with high rates of nighttime accidents, to be
determined by analysis of the ratio of nighttime to daytime
accidents
3. Areas with excessive merging, weaving, or short sight distances
4. Areas with significant pedestrian traffic
5. Areas with high occurrence of fog
6. Areas where engineering judgment requires adaptation/transition
lighting to be installed to prevent unnecessarily abrupt or frequent
transitions between lighted and unlighted areas, or areas of
different brightness (See AASHTO GL-6)
7. Areas where lighting is required to transition to lighting systems
maintained by other jurisdictions (See AASHTO GL-6)
The Engineer shall assess the need for any of these special
considerations, and shall make recommendations in the Lighting
Warrant Analysis for review and determination by the Authoritys
Engineering Department.
MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 11

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

7.2.1.2 Underbridge Lighting

Underbridge Lighting shall be provided only where roadway lighting
is required by other warrants in this Section, but proper lighting levels
and uniformity cannot be achieved with ground-mounted lighting
standards.
This is often due to project-specific geometric
considerations such as length of overpass, or orientation of
structures relative to various roadways.
7.2.1.3 Sign Lighting
Garden State Parkway
Sign Lighting shall not be provided for any new signs on the Garden
State Parkway, unless otherwise directed by the Authoritys
Engineering Department.
Where existing lighted signs are
encountered within project limits, the signs shall be replaced with
new retroreflective panels, and the sign lighting system shall be
removed.
New Jersey Turnpike
1. Unless otherwise directed by the Authoritys Engineering
Department, sign lighting shall be required for all overhead fixed
panel signs and changeable message signs (signs mounted to
Span, Butterfly, Cantilever, or Bridge-Mounted Structures See
Section 2 (Structures) and Section 6A (Turnpike Signing and
Striping) of this Manual. All other sign types shall not be
illuminated, unless directed by the Authority.
2. Where sign lighting is required, the Engineer shall perform
calculations for all fixed panel signs within the project, and shall
re-analyze any existing lighting to remain where new sign panels
are installed on existing structures. If existing lighting does not
meet the current design criteria, it shall be removed and
upgraded to a system that does meet the requirements.
3. Calculations shall be performed and submitted for every lighted
sign, whether or not recommended spacing is shown on the
Standard Drawings. Sign lighting shall be designed to the
requirements set forth in the AASHTO Roadway Lighting Design
Guide Publication GL-6. The Engineer shall list in the Phase A
report the design criteria which will be used for all calculations,
and shall submit the calculations with the Phase B Submission.
4. There are many existing signs across the Turnpike that do not
meet the Authoritys current requirements for retroreflectivity (See
the Standard Specifications). Where existing substandard lighted
signs are encountered within project limits, the signs shall be
replaced with new retroreflective panels. The sign lighting
system shall be removed if not required for the new sign panel.
MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 12

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

5. If lighting is to be maintained on existing structures, the Engineer

shall perform a site visit to assess the condition of the equipment
and determine whether replacement of the sign lighting is
required. A report of this condition assessment shall be included
in the Phase A report.
6. The Authoritys Engineering and Operations Departments are
currently investigating a warrant analysis procedure to determine
the need for overhead signs lighting on a case by case basis. If
directed by the Engineering Department, the Engineer shall
perform a warrant analysis for sign lighting for each overhead
sign (as described above) in accordance with the following
criteria. If the warrant analysis is not required, lighting shall be
provided on every overhead sign as described above.
When performing a warrant analysis, lighting shall be warranted
for a fixed message sign only if any of the following criteria are
met:
a. Tangent sight distance is less than 1200 feet due to
horizontal or vertical curve or other sight obstruction
b. Sign panels do not meet optimal reflectivity requirements due
to older construction methods (button copy, painted signs).
This warrant shall not be applicable to new signs, which are
constructed with retroreflective sheeting.
c. High importance Guide Signs (i.e. Lane Drops, Changeable
Message Signs, or Diagrammatic signs)
d. Areas with high occurrence of frost or fog
e. Where directed by the Authoritys Engineering Department
f. Project specific considerations
7.2.1.4 Roadway Tunnel Lighting
A warrant analysis for Roadway Tunnel Lighting shall be prepared in
accordance with the IESNA Recommended Practice for Tunnel
Lighting, Illuminating Engineering Society of North America
Publication RP-22-96. In general, a tunnel is defined as any
structure over a roadway which restricts the normal daytime
illumination of a roadway section such that the drivers visibility is
substantially diminished.
Additional daytime tunnel lighting is
typically not required for tunnels of length less than 80 feet.
Where tunnel lighting is warranted, supplemented daytime lighting
shall be required as directed in RP-22-96. Nighttime light levels in
the tunnel shall conform to Authority design criteria, and shall
transition appropriately with the roadways on either side of the
tunnel.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 13

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

7.2.1.5 Parking Lot Lighting

Parking Lot Lighting shall be considered warranted, and shall be
installed for all parking lots on Authority property, unless directed
otherwise by the Authoritys Engineering Department.
7.2.1.6 Storage Facilities and Maintenance Yards Lighting
Lighting shall be installed only where directed by the Authoritys
Engineering Department.
7.2.1.7 Aesthetic Lighting
Aesthetic lighting, which is lighting that is meant to be decorative and
not used to illuminate any site, roadway, or facility for safety
concerns, shall be installed only where directed by the Authoritys
Engineering Department.
7.2.1.8 Navigation and Aviation Obstruction Lighting
Navigation Lighting, including channel and fender lights shall be
provided on bridge structures with navigable channels as required by
the United States Coast Guard or other Federal or Local Regulations.
Aviation Obstruction Lighting, including aviation obstruction beacons
shall be installed as required by the Federal Aviation Administration.
It should be noted that certain Authority facilities are within airport
glide slopes, and may require special treatment to ensure that fixed
lighting equipment does not project into restricted air space.
7.2.2

Required Area of Illumination

Once the Lighting Warrant Analysis has been completed, the Engineer shall
determine the specific project areas that are required to be illuminated. This
Subsection is intended to show the methods used to determine the required
areas of illumination (denoted as Design Areas hereafter in this Section),
where lighting must meet the applicable design criteria. Boundaries shall be
defined between the required Design Area(s), and areas where lighting
levels will not be analyzed and/or no lighting is required. Lighting levels
shall be analyzed only for the Design Areas, as detailed in this Subsection.
The lighting system shall be designed to efficiently and properly illuminate
only those areas that require lighting as defined herein. Care shall be taken
to minimize spill light into areas that do not require illumination, including
both areas inside and outside Authority jurisdiction, unless otherwise
directed.
Lighting on all residential areas shall be kept to an absolute minimum. A
maximum level of 0.1 foot-candles on any residential properties shall be
strictly enforced, unless otherwise authorized by the Authority through the
Design Element Modification process (see Subsection 7.1.3).
The
Engineer shall use appropriate luminaire selection and location, and
additional shielding or other devices to minimize spill light.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 14

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

7.2.2.1 Continuous Lighting on Roadways

Continuous lighting on roadways, freeways, ramps, and direct
connections, where warranted to be installed, shall be provided from
pavement edge to pavement edge. The Design Area shall include all
shoulders, medians, curbs, and islands as shown for a typical
roadway section in Exhibit 7 - 3 below:
EXHIBIT 7 - 3
REQUIRED DESIGN AREA FOR TYPICAL RAMP

Where lighting is required only on certain portions of the roadway,

such as the case of acceleration or deceleration lanes, the other
requirements of this Subsection shall apply.
7.2.2.2 Deceleration Lanes
Deceleration Lane lighting, where warranted, shall be installed in
advance of the striped gore for the predetermined distance as listed
in Exhibit 7 - 6, and continued to a point 30 feet beyond the physical
gore. The Design Area shall include the deceleration lane(s) and
shoulder, as well as the two adjacent mainline lanes. Lighting shall
be provided for a distance of 30 feet beyond the physical gore.
Deceleration lane lighting may be extended to accommodate projectspecific considerations where directed by, or approved in advance by
the Authoritys Engineering Department. Deceleration Lane lighting
is shown in Exhibit 7 - 4 and Exhibit 7 - 5 below:

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 15

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

EXHIBIT 7 - 4
REQUIRED DESIGN AREA FOR DECELERATION LANE

EXHIBIT 7 - 5
REQUIRED DESIGN AREA FOR MULTIPLE DECELERATION LANES

The minimum distance that requires lighting, as measured from the

physical gore, is listed below in Exhibit 7 - 6:

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 16

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

EXHIBIT 7 - 6
TABLE OF DISTANCES FOR DECELERATION LANE LIGHTING
Design Speed
Limit
35 MPH
40 MPH
45 MPH
50 MPH
55 MPH
60 MPH
65 MPH
70 MPH

Distance A (Safe Stopping

Distance)
250 Feet
325 Feet
400 Feet
475 Feet
550 Feet
640 Feet
735 Feet
835 Feet

7.2.2.3 Acceleration Lanes

Acceleration Lane lighting, where warranted, shall be installed
beginning at the physical gore and continuing for a predetermined
distance from the striped gore as listed in Exhibit 7 - 8. The Design
Area shall include the acceleration lane(s) and shoulder, as well as
the two adjacent mainline lanes. Acceleration lane lighting may be
extended to accommodate project-specific considerations where
directed by, or approved in advance by the Authoritys Engineering
Department. Acceleration Lane lighting is shown in Exhibit 7 - 7
below:
EXHIBIT 7 - 7
REQUIRED DESIGN AREA FOR ACCELERATION LANE

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 17

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

The minimum distance that requires lighting, as measured from the

convergence of the acceleration lane and mainline lanes, is listed
below in Exhibit 7 - 8:
EXHIBIT 7 - 8
TABLE OF DISTANCES FOR ACCELERATION LANE LIGHTING
Design Speed
Limit
35 MPH
40 MPH
45 MPH
50 MPH
55 MPH
60 MPH
65 MPH
70 MPH

Distance B (Safe Stopping

Distance)
250 Feet
325 Feet
400 Feet
475 Feet
550 Feet
640 Feet
735 Feet
835 Feet

7.2.2.4 Merge, Weaving, and Diverge Areas

Design Areas for merge, diverge, and weaving areas, where lighting
is warranted, shall be as shown below in Exhibit 7 - 9 and Exhibit 7 10.
The Design Area for merge and weaving areas shall include all
paved area starting from the point of the physical gore, to the striped
gore, and continuing for a predetermined distance B (determined
from the table in Exhibit 7 - 8). If lane drops occur beyond the
minimum merge area, the Design Area may be extended to the
location where all lane drops have occurred, if directed by, or
approved in advance, by the Authoritys Engineering Department.
The Design Area for diverge areas shall include all paved area
starting from a point located a distance A (determined from the table
in Exhibit 7 - 6) from the striped gore, and continuing to the location
of the physical gore. If lanes are added in advance of the minimum
diverge area for purposes of allowing proper weaving distance prior
to the decision point, the Design Area may be extended to a location
where the first lane is added if directed by, or approved in advance,
by the Authoritys Engineering Department.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 18

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

EXHIBIT 7 - 9
REQUIRED DESIGN AREA FOR MERGE/WEAVING AREA

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 19

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

EXHIBIT 7 - 10
REQUIRED DESIGN AREA FOR DIVERGE AREA

7.2.2.5 Ramp Termini

Ramp terminus lighting, where required, shall be installed where the
ramps connect with local roads, intersections, or other freeways.
Because of the diversity of the geometries of the various ramp
terminals across the Parkway and Turnpike, the Engineer shall use
judgment to determine the necessary Design Area. Any transition
lighting necessary to visually connect the Authoritys lighting system
with the lighting system of another jurisdiction shall be included in the
Design Area.
Examples of typical ramp terminus treatments are shown below in
Exhibit 7 - 11 and Exhibit 7 - 12 for reference:

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 20

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

EXHIBIT 7 - 11
REQUIRED DESIGN AREA FOR TYPICAL RAMP TERMINUS

EXHIBIT 7 - 12
REQUIRED DESIGN AREA FOR RAMP TERMINUS AT SIGNALIZED INTERSECTION

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 21

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

7.2.2.6 Toll Plaza Merge Areas

Toll Plaza Merge Areas (as defined below) shall be continuously
lighted from pavement edge to pavement edge, including all
shoulders, where required by the Lighting Warrant Analysis. The
Design Area for Toll Plaza Merge Areas shall include all islands,
dividers, and other obstructions, but shall not include the area
immediately below the Toll Plaza Canopy, which shall be analyzed
separately.
The Toll Plaza Merge Area shall be defined as the greater of the two
following areas:
1. The paved area between points located 500 feet on either side of
the Toll Plaza centerline as shown below in Exhibit 7 - 13, or
EXHIBIT 7 - 13
SMALL TOLL PLAZA DESIGN AREA

2. The paved area on both sides of the toll plaza that is located
between the limits of typical roadway section as shown below in
Exhibit 7 - 14.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 22

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

EXHIBIT 7 - 14
LARGE TOLL PLAZA DESIGN AREA

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 23

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

7.2.2.7 Parking / Maintenance / Storage Facilities

The Design Area for Parking, Maintenance, and Storage areas,
where lighting is warranted, shall include all paved area that is
accessible by vehicular traffic. Channelizing devices, buildings,
islands, service canopies, maintenance buildings, etc. shall be
excluded from the Design Area in order to reduce unnecessary light
spill and improve overall system efficiency. Areas with any expected
pedestrian traffic should be included in the design area to ensure
maximum safety. A typical parking area is shown in Exhibit 7 - 15,
below:
EXHIBIT 7 - 15
TYPICAL DESIGN AREA FOR PARKING FACILITY

7.2.2.8 Roadway Tunnels

The Design Areas for Roadway Tunnels, including Adaptation,
Transition, and Interior Zones, shall be as defined and described in
IESNA Recommended Practice for Tunnel Lighting, Illuminating
Engineering Society of North America Publication RP-22-96.
7.2.3

Lighting Design Criteria

Once the required areas of illumination (Design Areas) are determined, the
appropriate lighting design criteria shall be designated for each area.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 24

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

The Authority utilizes an Illuminance method for the design of all lighting
systems, except as required by the IESNA publications for Roadway
Tunnels. Illuminance levels shall be in accordance with the following criteria,
shown below in Exhibit 7 - 16:
EXHIBIT 7 - 16
TABLE OF ILLUMINATION AND UNIFORMITY REQUIREMENTS

Usage Classification

Mainline Roadways and

Ramps
Gore Areas (Mainline
Roadways and Ramps)
Toll Plaza Merge Area
Toll Plaza Lanes (Area below
Canopy)
Major Long Bridges
Service Areas/Parking Areas
Roadway Tunnels
Other Areas

Minimum
Average
Maintained
Illuminance
(foot-candles)

Maximum
Average
Maintained
Illuminance
(foot-candles)

Minimum
Point
Illuminance
(foot-candles)

Maximum
Uniformity
Ratio
(Avg./Min.)

0.70

0.85

0.20

4.0:1

0.70

0.85

0.20

4.0:1

2.30
15.00

2.50
20.00

0.60
10.00

4.0:1
1.5:1

0.70
0.85
0.20
4.0:1
1.75
2.25
0.50
4.0:1
See the IESNA Recommended Practice for Tunnel Lighting
See the IES Lighting Handbook

Footnotes:
1

Higher uniformity values will be acceptable for elevated ramps near highmast poles, when approved
in advance by the Authority

Light levels for the Toll Plaza Merge Area shall be as listed in Exhibit 7 - 16
above, and shall transition gradually to the light levels of the adjacent
roadways near the limits of the merge area.
Toll plaza lanes shall be illuminated on all plazas to the requirements shown.
The calculation zone shall be coincident with the projection of the toll plaza
canopy onto the roadway surface.
Outside Authority jurisdiction, illuminance levels and appropriate uniformity
requirements for roadways and parking areas shall be as determined by the
owner of each property or facility. Lighting levels on all local/county/stateowned roadways shall be designed in accordance with the current NJDOT
design criteria, unless otherwise directed by the Authoritys Engineering
Department. At the jurisdictional limits of Authority right of way, all Authorityowned lighting systems shall be designed to transition appropriately to the
light levels of the adjacent lighting system, if such system exists.
All lighting calculations shall be performed utilizing a Combined Light Loss
Factor (also referred to as Maintenance Factor) to account for degradation
of light output due to bulb losses, equipment tolerances, and dirt

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 25

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

accumulation. Light Loss Factors shall be as shown below in Exhibit 7 - 17

for all projects:

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 26

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

EXHIBIT 7 - 17
TABLE OF LIGHT LOSS FACTORS
Facility
Garden State Parkway Roadways and
Facilities
New Jersey Turnpike Roadways and Facilities
Other Authority Facilities
Other Authority Facilities Considered Dirty1
Local, County, and State (NJDOT) Roadways
Other Areas outside NJTA jurisdiction

Light Loss Factor

0.75
0.68
0.75
0.68
Per NJDOT
requirements
Per property owner

Area shall be considered dirty if environmental factors (i.e. soot, exhaust,

dirt, etc.) are expected to accelerate depreciation of lamp lumen output
relative to an average installation.
To prevent need to redesign lighting systems, Light Loss Factors shall be
determined in advance of, and included with the Phase A Submission for
review by the Authoritys Engineering Department. See Subsection 7.6.1 for
more information.
7.2.4

Selection of Roadway Lighting System

After the various Design Areas and Design Criteria have been determined,
the Engineer shall identify the type(s) of Roadway Lighting System(s) to be
used on the project. This Subsection details the selection of the Roadway
Lighting System only. For information regarding types of equipment
installed for other lighting systems, see Subsection 7.3.
Refer to the Standard Drawings and Specifications, and the Authoritys
website for references of specific photometric and material requirements,
and for a list of currently approved model numbers for each type of fixture as
noted below.
7.2.4.1 Approved Roadway Lighting Systems
The Authority currently utilizes and maintains four (4) major types of
roadway lighting systems. These systems are designated below,
with brief descriptions of the major system features:
1. Highmast Lighting / Floodlighting System Highmast and
Floodlighting systems utilize high-wattage fixtures at mounting
heights of 80 or 100 feet, and are designed to light large areas
with a minimum of poles. Luminaire wattages used are either
400- or 1000-Watt.
For highmast installations, luminaires shall be arranged in a ring
of up to twelve (12) full-cutoff luminaires (useful for symmetrical
lighting of areas such as the roadways in a complex interchange).
For floodlighting installations, luminaires shall be arranged in a

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 27

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

floodlighting assembly of up to eight (8) floodlighting luminaires

that are individually aimed (useful for one-sided and asymmetrical
lighting of areas such as toll plaza approaches). Certain legacy
highmast and floodlighting systems throughout the roadways
utilize poles of different designs that require either climbing or
use of a bucket truck for relamping. In all recent systems, the
tower poles feature a luminaire ring or floodlighting frame
assembly that can be lowered through operation of a winch at the
tower pole base, allowing for relamping from the ground level.
All newly proposed tower lighting installations shall utilize
lowering devices as shown on Standard Drawing E-xx (to be
published at a later date).
2. Pole-Top Cutoff Lighting System The Pole-Top Cutoff Lighting
System utilizes full-cutoff Type P2, P3 or P4 luminaires that are
designed to be mounted on poles without the traditional bracket
arms. Nominal mounting heights are either 26 or 40 feet, and
shall be determined based on the criteria listed in Subsection
7.3.1. Special tenon adapters are installed on the top of each
pole, and the luminaire is installed and attached.
The Type P luminaire is preferred by the Authority because
maintenance can be performed without the need to shut lanes,
as long as the lighting design places luminaires above full-width
accessible shoulders. It is preferred to mount luminaires at zero
(0) degrees tilt, but some luminaire tilts will be accepted as
described in Subsection 7.3.2 or where approved by the
Authoritys Engineering Department.
3. Conventional Lighting System The Conventional Lighting
System utilizes traditional full-cutoff Type A, B, C and D
cobrahead luminaires, mounted on either 8- or 15-foot bracket
arms. Nominal mounting heights are either 26 or 40 feet for new
installations (30 or 40 feet for retrofit installations on the Turnpike,
see Subsection 7.3.1).
4. Offset (Expressway) Lighting System The Offset Lighting
system utilizes non-cutoff Type E fixtures mounted without arms
to poles, and oriented such that the luminaires are at an angle to
the roadway to maximize the light thrown to the roadway.
The Offset lighting system is ideal for lighting very large areas of
roadway; however, it does so at the cost of high glare and spill
light. For this reason, the Offset Lighting System shall always be
the last system considered for any roadway lighting application.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 28

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

7.2.4.2 Selection of System

1. For each project, the Engineer shall perform an analysis of
project areas and propose the Roadway Lighting System(s) to be
installed. The systems should be considered in the following
order, which is ranked according to Authority preference:
a. Highmast Systems shall be considered first for large,
complete interchange lighting systems. A highmast system is
ideal for large area lighting applications, where it may offer
distinct illumination and economical advantages over the
other system types. However, because many Authority
roadways are located in close proximity to residential
developments and areas with sensitive environmental
impacts, it may not be feasible to utilize this system.
b. Pole-Top Cutoff System shall be considered the preferred
Roadway Lighting System on the Parkway and Turnpike
roadways. If a Highmast System cannot be installed due to
environmental impacts, the Engineer shall design using a
Pole-Top Cutoff System. Pole-Top Cutoff Systems have
been installed on roadways and toll plazas as wide as 10
lanes with optimal results, and shall be used for all
installations, unless the Engineer can demonstrate that
Authority lighting Design Criteria cannot be met.
c. The Conventional Lighting System shall be installed only
where directed or approved by the Authoritys Engineering
Department to replace or modify existing Conventional
lighting systems that are not slated for complete system
replacement.
d. Floodlighting Systems should be considered for use only at
very wide toll plaza facilities, and shall be considered for use
before Offset Lighting.
e. The Offset Lighting System shall be considered only where
no other system works to illuminate the Design Area to the
required light levels and uniformity. Offset type luminaires
shall be used for large area toll plazas where conventional
cutoff, pole-top cutoff, or floodlighting luminaires cannot
provide the required illumination level and uniformity ratio.
The Engineer shall make certain that the glare produced by
this type of luminaire is properly controlled. Visors and
special optical systems may be considered for such
applications. The use of Offset type luminaires shall be
approved in advance of design by the Authoritys Engineering
Department. Offset luminaires will not be approved if the
area can be lighted by any other means (including Pole-Top
Cutoff luminaires mounted at tilts of up to 18 degrees).
MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 29

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

2. Multiple different roadway lighting systems shall not be installed

concurrently in the same project locations, unless approved in
advance by the Authoritys Engineering Department.
The
Engineer shall make every effort to minimize the number of
systems and the number of equipment types used at each project
location. The only exception to this direction is that Highmast or
Floodlighting lighting standards shall be permitted to be installed
in the same project areas as other lighting equipment to realize
the efficiency gained by these poles when they cannot be used
on all areas of a project.
3. Any existing or proposed roadway lighting system and/or
equipment that impacts the roadway lighting system under
determination shall be considered in the analysis, discussion,
recommendations, and calculations.
4. Where projects are performed at locations where existing lighting
systems need to be modified in part due to modified proposed
geometry or other construction requirements, the Engineer shall
consider replacement of all relevant lighting equipment to meet
current Authority standards. If replacement is not cost-feasible,
or does not offer any material benefit to the Authority, the
Engineer shall recommend the exact extent to which lighting
equipment shall be removed and replaced.
Where possible, new installations (for example, where all lighting
on the ramps from an existing toll plaza to the circuits
terminations on the Turnpike mainline are replaced) shall conform
to the current standards of the Authority. If only a small portion of
an existing approved lighting system (see Subsection 7.2.4.1 for
a list of approved systems) needs to be modified (for example,
where several poles are replaced in the middle of a run of
existing poles) the new design shall match the standards of the
existing installation. See Subsection 7.3.1 for more information
regarding types of poles to be used when modifying certain
existing lighting installations on the Turnpike.
5. The environmental impacts of each system, especially on
residential property, sensitive environmental areas (wetlands,
waterways, etc.), and glare / light pollution shall be investigated
and detailed in the Phase A report. The Engineer shall
recommend that any systems with detrimental impacts be
eliminated from consideration prior to the Phase A submission.
After the detrimental systems have been eliminated, the Engineer
shall perform a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis of the
remaining roadway lighting systems. This cost-benefit analysis
shall take into consideration maintenance cost, installation cost,
and energy usage, and shall be used in making a

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 30

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

recommendation of proposed Roadway Lighting System. The

cost-benefit analysis shall be included in the Phase A report.
6. Wood pole systems shall not be allowed, except for temporary
construction lighting.
7. Where existing wood pole, non-standard floodlighting, or legacy
systems (including systems using standard poles but nonstandard fixtures such as offset or vertical lighting luminaires) are
encountered during improvement projects, they shall be replaced
or upgraded to meet the Authoritys current standards of
construction, including associated power and distribution systems
or other components. This requirement shall supersede the
direction given elsewhere in this Section.
8. The Engineer shall perform a separate cost-benefit analysis for
the recommendation of any temporary lighting systems, if
applicable to the project.
7.2.5

Design Considerations
In the design of lighting systems, the level of light and the effect of glare
should be primary concerns. A glare-free environment shall not be
compromised in the interest of economy, nor shall higher light levels be
permitted where not required by this manual. Special attention shall be
exercised to ensure cutoff type luminaires are utilized to the maximum
extent possible, that luminaire tilts are minimized, and that consideration to
control glare is given to all design applications.
The Engineer shall work to ensure that all lighting designs meet the following
basic criteria in order to achieve a superior and economical roadway lighting
system. These criteria are presented in order of the Authoritys preference
(Number 1 being the most important). Where it is not possible to satisfy all
criteria for the entire installation due to project-specific constraints, the
Engineer shall utilize this ranked list to make decisions regarding tradeoffs
between various project elements. Where any of the following criteria
cannot be met for a given installation, the Engineer shall include a
discussion in the appropriate Phase Submission report, for final approval by
the Authoritys Engineering Department.
1. Uniform Lighting The Engineer shall ensure a uniform distribution of
lighting intensities that fall within Authority Design Criteria, and shall
achieve this throughout the entire system unless specific Design Criteria
have been modified through the process described above in Subsection
7.1.3.
2. Responsible Installation The Engineer shall utilize the most
environmentally-friendly solutions that reduce light pollution and ongoing
energy consumption.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 31

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

3. Planned Maintenance The Engineer shall choose equipment locations

that require the least amount of preventative and periodic maintenance
in terms of manpower and cost. Equipment locations selected shall be
easily accessible for maintenance.
4. Economical Installation The Engineer shall optimize initial construction
costs and ongoing power consumption costs for the entire system.
5. Aesthetically Pleasing The Engineer shall provide an installation is
pleasing and symmetrical in appearance to passing motorists. Lighting
installations should not look out of place or be visually objectionable to a
public patron who is not trained in the specifics of lighting design, and
may not know the engineering reasons why certain options may be
preferable if aesthetics are not a consideration. In general, lighting
standards shall be aligned or evenly staggered, with relatively uniform
height to achieve an acceptable aesthetic appearance. See Subsection
7.3.1 for typical lighting standard arrangements that meet these
aesthetic requirements.
It is understood that creating a lighting system design that is compliant with
all the above criteria is sometimes difficult, and will require tradeoffs. It will
require some judgment on the part of the Engineer to draw an appropriate
balance. The Engineer should take this into consideration when determining
the required lighting system design.
7.2.6

Lighting Calculation Method

This Subsection lists the specific requirements to be used when performing
illuminance calculations for Authority projects. These methods are used for
most roadway, site, sign, underpass, and other lighting systems. For details
of the luminance calculation methods required for certain Tunnel Lighting
installations, see the American National Standard Practice for Tunnel
Lighting (Illuminating Engineering Society of North America)
Calculations shall be submitted for all areas where Roadway Lighting is
warranted, including but not limited to Roadways, Tunnels, Underbridge,
Signs, and where Aesthetic Lighting is required for each project.
7.2.6.1 Software and Setup
1. All illuminance calculations shall be performed using the Acuity
Lighting Brands, Inc. lighting calculation software called Visual
Professional Edition, latest version. This is the industry-standard
program used for review of lighting calculations. The Engineer
may propose use of an alternate lighting calculation program.
However, before an alternate program is approved for use on a
Project, the Engineer shall furnish the Authoritys Engineering
Department with three (3) permanent full-service licenses to the
program, and shall provide one (1) day of training to three (3)
people as designated by the Authoritys Engineering Department
on the use of the program. Any alternate program used shall be

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 32

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

capable of calculating illuminance based on both direct and

reflected components, shall be capable of three-dimensional
analysis, and shall utilize a graphical user interface for data input
and analysis.
The Visual lighting software shall not be used for luminance
calculations, as is required for such installations as Tunnel
Lighting. The Engineer shall submit for approval a calculation
program to be used for all luminance calculations at the time of
the Phase A Submission. Set up of files and computational
methods shall be as described in IESNA RP-22-96.
2. The Engineer shall import the most recent proposed roadway
geometry and topographical information into the calculation
software, and shall use this as a basis for all calculations. At a
minimum, stationing, striping, and utilities shall also be shown.
All structures and obstructions which may impact light levels shall
be shown, as well as all existing lighting standards that will
remain after construction.
3. For complex interchanges, the Engineer shall use threedimensional modeling and/or creation of obstructions and
surfaces within the file to model the effects of bridges, gradeseparations, and/or other structures which may interfere with
ideal lighting conditions. It shall be permissible to approximate
areas of variable grade with multiple stepped flat calculation
zones, each of as large a size as possible, provided that the
method used does not introduce a significant error into the
calculations.
4. To reduce coordination and possibility of cross-referencing errors
between multiple lighting calculation files, the calculations shall
be performed in a single lighting file. If the Engineer desires to
utilize more than one file for calculations, a request shall be made
to the Authoritys Engineering Department during the Phase A
Submission. The request shall state the engineering reasons
why multiple files are required, and shall be reviewed at the time
of the Phase A Submission. Any calculations submitted as
multiple files without an approved request shall be returned
without further review, and resubmission will be required.
5. All calculations shall be performed in U.S. Customary units
(lumens, feet, foot-candles).
7.2.6.2 Calculation Zones
1. Calculations zones shall be defined to be coincident with the
lighting Design Area, (See Subsection 7.2.2 for determination of
Design Areas). Calculation zones shall be constructed using the
Polygon method, and shall closely match all curved geometry of
MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 33

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

the base drawing to ensure that no calculation points are

unintentionally omitted. Each section or Design Area shall be
analyzed using a separate calculation zone, and multiple
calculation zones shall be allowed for each Design Area. Use of
statistical zones shall not be permitted. Calculation zones shall
be defined as large as possible given the above criteria for ease
of design and review.
2. In order to facilitate review of the calculations, calculation zones
shall be named to match the area being calculated, or roadway
station points. Multiple colors shall be used to differentiate
between zones.
Minimum and maximum values shall be
displayed in a different color than the main calculation zone
points.
3. Calculation zone accuracy shall be set to hundredths (doubledigit decimal 0.00 accuracy). Point spacing for all calculation
zones shall be 5 feet transversely and longitudinally.
4. Calculation zones shall be defined for all residential lots, and
shall be named Residential Area. Lighting levels in these areas
shall be kept to a maximum illuminance of 0.10 foot-candles (see
Subsection 7.2.2). If more than one residential area exists, or if
residential areas are separated such that they cannot be defined
as one area, then each residential area shall be numbered
logically following Residential Area 1, Residential Area 2, etc.
5. Masking or deletion of individual calculation points shall not be
permitted. The only exception is that masks will be allowed for
large parking areas for example, to exclude a gas station or
building from the overall calculation zone.
7.2.6.3 Luminaires and Photometrics
1. Luminaire definitions shall be created using the approved .IES
photometric files shown on the Standard Drawings, and as
otherwise directed by the Authoritys Engineering Department.
Photometric data used shall be the most recent version of files
approved by the Authoritys Engineering Department. The most
recent version of the photometric files and corresponding
documentation are available on the Authoritys website for use in
project designs.
2. IES photometric files used in calculations for existing and/or
proposed non-Authority or non-standard equipment shall be as
per the manufacturers direction for the specific equipment.
Manufacturer, fixture type, and photometrics shall be determined
by field investigation, review of As-Built plan, coordination with
equipment owner, or similar method. Approximate photometrics
files will not be accepted.
MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 34

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

3. Tilt values and optical rotations in the luminaire definition shall be

set to zero degrees in the luminaire definition. All tilts shall be
applied to the individual luminaires / light standards.
4. Mounting height of luminaires shall be the actual mounting height
as shown in the Standard Drawings, rounded to the nearest foot
to simplify data entry.
5. Symbols in the Luminaire Schedule shall be defined accurately
and to scale. Arm lengths, where required for each Lighting
Standard, shall be defined to match those shown on the
Standard Drawings.
6. Luminaires / Lighting Standards shall be laid out in accordance
with the details shown on the Standard Drawings and to match
the design considerations listed in Subsection 7.2.4.
7. The Engineer shall ensure that the location and types of
luminaires and lighting standards are consistent between all
calculations files and the plans developed for construction of the
lighting system.
8. All light sources within three (3) mounting heights of any
calculation zone shall be included in the calculations. This
includes all light sources, including utility, site, and other lighting
that is not on Authority property. For example, if a utility light on
a 30-foot pole is near Authority property, it shall be included in
the design as a contributing light source if it lies within 3 x 30 = 90
feet of any calculation zone.
9. Exhibit 7 - 18 below indicates the initial lamp lumens of various
High Intensity Discharge (HID) lamps that shall be used when
defining light sources within the calculation software. These
lumen values should be used even if the .IES photometric files
are imported with different (manufacturer specified) values. Only
clear lamps shall be utilized on Authority projects. Lumen values
for lamps of other types that are used in calculations shall be as
reported by the manufacturer of the lamp. Metal Halide lamps
shall be appropriately derated if used in orientations that degrade
the lumen output.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 35

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

EXHIBIT 7 - 18
LAMP TYPES, WATTAGES, LUMENS, AND RATED LIFE
Lamp Type
High
(HPS)

Pressure

Mercury Vapor (MV)

Metal Halide (MH)

Sodium

Lamp
Watts
70

Initial
Lumens
6,400

Rated
Hours
24,000

100
150
200
250
310
400
750
1000
100
175
250
400
175
250
400
1000

9,500
16,000
22,000
27,500
37,000
50,000
Not approved
140,000
3,800
8,000
11,200
21,000
14,000
21,500
37,500
110,000

24,000
24,000
24,000
24,000
24,000
24,000
24,000
24,000
24,000
24,000
24,000
20,000
20,000
20,000
12,000

7.2.6.4 Additional Considerations

Calculations shall be performed using all approved photometrics for a
given fixture type. Where there is more than one manufacturer of a
particular luminaire, the Engineer shall submit calculations proving
that the lighting standard and luminaire locations result in light levels
that meet Authority design criteria for all approved manufacturers.
For example, if there are four (4) approved manufacturers of the
Type P2 pole-top full cutoff luminaire, the Engineer shall submit four
calculation files (one file showing the fixtures of each manufacturer)
that are identical in all regards except for the photometrics used for
the fixtures, and all calculation files shall indicate compliance with
Authority design criteria.
The above design approach ensures that the Contractor may provide
any of the approved luminaires without compromising the quality of
the final systems lighting values and uniformity.
Calculations shall also be provided for each stage of construction,
where temporary roadways or lighting systems are in use.
7.2.6.5 Verification of Lighting Design
After the completed lighting system has been constructed, the
Engineer shall perform a verification of the lighting installation to
ensure that the lighting has been installed according to the design.
This verification is required before the Authority issues final
acceptance for any lighting system.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 36

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

Procedure
The Engineer shall overlay a grid with a maximum point spacing of
50 feet on a site plan of all lighted areas, and shall take light
readings at each point. A plan of actual light reading values shall be
created and compared to the computerized calculations prepared for
project design, using a Light Loss Factor of 1.00 (at initial installation,
lighting has not yet depreciated). If any discrepancies are found in
the light readings in the field as compared to the design values
(average, uniformity, minimum values), the Engineer shall determine
the source of discrepancy and recommend a course of action to the
Authoritys personnel in charge of Construction oversight. The
Engineer shall repeat the light readings and Contractor coordination
until satisfied that the installed system(s) match the lighting design.
Typical issues causing non-compliance of installed system that have
been encountered in the past are improper aiming of floodlight
luminaires, and incorrect tilts on fixtures.
After any problems are reconciled, the Engineer shall then submit
two (2) copies of the following to the Authority for release of the
lighting system:
1. Plan showing actual light values for all lighted areas in the
project, with readings taken at a maximum of 50 foot point
spacing
2. Full-size color prints at the same scale as the light-reading plan,
showing the theoretically derived lighting levels with a Light Loss
Factor of 1.00.
3. A signed and sealed letter verifying that the lighting system was
installed to design, and that the light levels are within satisfactory
tolerances.

7.3

LIGHTING EQUIPMENT AND MATERIALS

7.3.1

Roadway Lighting Standards

Except for Highmast and Floodlighting Systems, lighting standards shall be
aluminum alloy, equipped with single, twin or double tenon bracket arms or
luminaire mounting adapters, and mounted on shoe or transformer bases.
Ground-mounted lighting standards are typically mounted on precast
concrete bases or Junction Box Foundations. Bridge/wall/structure-mounted
lighting standards are mounted either on either a parapet blister mount
See Structural Standard Drawing BR-15 or using the Parapet Mounting
Brackets for Retrofit installations on the Turnpike only.
All light poles shall be designed in accordance with the AASHTO Standard
Specifications for Structural Supports for Highway Signs, Luminaires, and
Traffic Signals. See Section 2 (Structures) of this Manual, and specific
information on the Standard Drawings for more information.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 37

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

For specific types, descriptions, and dimensional details of approved

Lighting Standards, refer to the Standard Drawings.
The Turnpike, for many years, utilized 30 and 40-foot poles of a design that
is different from that historically used on the Parkway. These poles are
designated with numeric types i.e. Type 1, Type 2, Type 3, etc. that
are standardized across the roadway, and shall be proposed for Retrofit
installations only (i.e. to replace/interface to existing systems on the
Turnpike). The details for the Retrofit Lighting Standards are shown on the
Standard Drawings ER-xx through ER-xx (to be published at a later date).
The new E Standard Drawings (to be published at a later date) have been
updated to reflect the Authoritys decision to utilize the NJDOT-style poles
that historically been used on the Parkway. The poles feature clamp-on
arms and standard 26 and 40 foot nominal mounting heights and shall be
used on all new construction projects unless noted otherwise. These poles
are designated with a coded system, which is shown below in Exhibit 7 - 19.
There are many combinations that have been pre-approved for use on
Authority projects. For a complete list of these types, see the Standard
Drawings (to be published at a later date).
EXHIBIT 7 - 19
LIGHTING STANDARD DESIGNATION METHOD

L-8-26-SB-T
Modifier: T=Twin Arm, SB= Shoe Base Mounting
Nominal Mounting Height (from top of foundation)
Luminaire Mounting Type 8 foot arm
Lighting Standard

L-MG2-40
Modifier: None (i.e. ground-mounted)
Nominal Mounting Height (from top of foundation)
Luminaire Mounting Type Bracket for two Type P fixtures
Lighting Standard

The NJDOT-style poles are shown on Standard Drawings E-xx through E-xx
(to be published at a later date), and shall be used on all Parkway projects,
as well as projects on the Turnpike where all of the following criteria can be
met, or where directed by the Authority:
1. A continuous portion of a circuit is being replaced, from a point in the
center of a circuit to a point either at the circuit terminus or at the source
of power.
2. At least 4 poles are being replaced.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 38

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

3. The installation of the new-style poles as shown on Standard Drawings

E-xx through E-xx (to be published at a later date) will not result in an
objectionable aesthetic appearance.
It is recognized that certain projects on the Turnpike will only modify small
portions of existing lighting installations. Where not replacing substantial
portions of light systems, use of the Retrofit lighting standard types shown
on Standard Drawings ER-xx through ER-xx (to be published at a later date)
shall be permitted by prior approval of the Authoritys Engineering
Department.
Where non-standard poles are approved for use by the Authoritys
Engineering Department according to other requirements in this Section, the
poles shall be designated with the Modifier NS1, NS2, etc. for each type
of non-standard pole used on a project. The details and model number
information for all non-standard poles shall be clearly shown in the Plans.
For example, a painted steel aesthetic parking lot lighting pole with 20 foot
height and 4 foot arm would be designated L-4-20-NS1. A pole of the
same construction, but with 25-foot height would be L-4-25-NS1. A twin
arm pole would be L-4-25-NS1-T, etc.
Type, arrangement and location of lighting standards to be used in various
areas shall conform to the following design criteria:
1. For pole-top cutoff lighting installation, L-MG type lighting standards
with 26 foot and 40 foot nominal mounting heights shall be used for
ramp and mainline roadway illumination. 40-foot poles with 150 and 250
Watt Type P luminaires shall be considered for use first, in order to yield
a more efficient design. 26-foot poles and/or 100 Watt fixtures shall be
permitted on roadways up to 30 feet wide, provided that the Design
Criteria are met and the Engineer can justify their use in lieu of 40-foot
poles because of specific project-related constraints, efficiencies, or
impacts to non-Authority property. 400 Watt fixtures shall be used only
for very wide roadways or where the Illumination Design Criteria is
greater than 1.0 foot-candles.
2. For conventional system installations, lighting standards with 26 or 40
foot nominal mounting heights (and 30 foot heights where retrofit poles
are approved) shall be used for ramp and mainline roadway illumination,
equipped with Type A, B, C or D luminaires.
3. Offset (expressway) lighting standards Types L-E-48, L-E2-48 and L-E348, as shown on the Standard Drawings (to be published at a later date)
with 48 ft. nominal mounting height and equipped with offset luminaires
shall be used only in toll plaza areas and certain other areas of wide
geometry. Use of these Lighting Standards shall be approved in
advance by the Authoritys Engineering Department.
4. Bridge-mounted or parapet-mounted lighting standards shall be
permitted to be 26, 30 or 40-foot nominal mounting height.
MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 39

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

5. Lighting standards shall be arranged in one of the following three (3)

methods; one-sided, opposite, staggered. An illustration of these
arrangements follows in Exhibit 7 - 20. Selection of the method shall be
based on the engineering analyses shown to produce the most effective
and economical lighting system. The Engineer shall analyze both
installation methods to determine the recommended scenario, and shall
describe the analysis as part of the submission report. Except where
non-symmetrical geometry is encountered, lighting shall be evenly
spaced and staggered to yield a pleasing visual appearance. See
Subsection 7.2.5 for more information regarding aesthetic treatment of
lighting installations.
EXHIBIT 7 - 20
TYPICAL ROADWAY LIGHTING STANDARD ARRANGEMENTS

6. Lighting standards shall be located along the wide shoulder (10 ft. and
12 ft.) edge of all ramps and mainline roadways in order to facilitate
maintenance and re-lamping. In very wide gore areas, however, it shall
MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 40

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

be permissible to install a small number of supplementary lighting

standards along the opposite shoulder in order to achieve illuminance
requirements.
7. When a lighting standard is to be located within the vicinity of an exit
gore area, a minimum of 50 ft. clearance should be provided beyond the
physical bullnose.
8. Lighting standards adjacent to overpasses shall be located to avoid glare
affecting traffic on overpasses. Additionally, light cutoff angles produced
by structural members should be analyzed when locating such lighting
standards.
Preferably, the lighting standards should be located
equidistant from overpass structures. If this cannot be achieved, a
minimum clearance of 35 feet (for 26- and 30-foot poles) and 50 feet (for
40-foot poles) shall be provided from the face of parapet of a typical
overpass (with standard minimum vertical clearance).
9. Lighting standards adjacent to overhead sign structures should be
located equidistant from such structures, if feasible, otherwise minimum
clearance requirements set forth for the overpass structures shall be
provided.
10. Opposite lighting standard arrangements (see Exhibit 7 20) shall be
used in toll plaza areas, except at certain narrow toll plazas where
required illuminance levels and uniformity ratios can effectively be
achieved by one-sided arrangement.
11. Ground-mounted lighting standards shall be installed on concrete bases
or Junction Box Foundations. Junction box foundations shall be used in
lieu of junction boxes and separate concrete bases wherever feasible.
Each lighting standard installed on a concrete base shall be provided
with a concrete junction box adjacent thereto for cable splicing, unless
another junction box within the proximity of the lighting standard (up to
50 feet away) can be used for this purpose.
12. Lighting standards on bridge structures shall be located near piers or
abutments in order to reduce undesirable vibration affecting the lamp
life. Mid-span locations must be avoided whenever possible. See
Section 2 (Structures Design) of this Manual for specific locations where
lighting standards are allowed. All bridge-mounted light standard mounts
shall be capable of supporting all standard Authority poles, up to a
height of 40 feet.
13. Lighting Standards shall be installed such that they are located not
closer than 20 feet to primary or secondary utility power lines or
communication facilities that are mounted to wood or other utility poles.
The Engineer shall take into consideration the requirements of the
National Electric Safety Code when designing lighting systems in the
vicinity of power distribution lines. Additionally, the Design shall take into
consideration the likelihood of pole knockdowns by vehicle impact, and
MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 41

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

ensure that no other critical facility may be rendered inoperable in the

event of an accident.
14. The number of various lighting standard assemblies and fixture optics
shall be kept to a minimum on each project, for ease of maintenance.
Runs of adjacent lighting standards shall be of the same type or fixture.
The Engineer shall not alternate lighting standards types, luminaires, or
wattages, or install small quantities of non-matching lighting standards in
a string of otherwise identical poles, unless there is a valid engineering
reason why such a design is required in lieu of other, more standardized
designs.
7.3.2

Roadway Lighting Luminaires

Various types of luminaires to be used for roadway lighting systems shall be
as shown on the Schedule of Approved Luminaires in the Standard
Drawings (to be published at a later date).
All standard luminaires are designated by a one or two digit letter-number
combination, i.e. Type A, Type E, or Type P2 independent of fixture
wattage, which shall be shown separately on the Plans. Where nonstandard luminaires are approved for use by the Authoritys Engineering
Department according to other requirements in this Section, the luminaires
shall be designated as Type N1, N2, etc. for each type of non-standard
luminaire used on a project. The details and model number information for
all non-standard poles shall be clearly shown in the Plans. For example, a
250 Watt aesthetic parking lot lighting fixture would be designated Type
N1. A fixture of the same construction, but with 400 Watt lamp would also
be designated Type N1 (however, the Plans would show the appropriate
wattage). A fixture of different construction used on the same project would
be Type N2, etc.
Descriptions on the use of each type of standard luminaire follow. Where
multiple photometrics are approved for use in a given installation (for
example, when choosing between the P2 and P4 fixtures), the Engineer
shall perform calculations for each type to determine the optimal solution for
the given Design Area.
1. Conventional luminaires (Type A, B, C or D) to be used for general
roadway, toll plaza and parking area illumination shall be full cutoff units
of types and sizes listed in the Standard Drawings and Specifications.
The photometric requirements for cutoff luminaires shall be in
accordance with Standard Drawings. While there are existing luminaires
of other wattages installed across the roadways, luminaires of 150, 250,
and 400 Watts shall be utilized in all new designs only. Special
permission may be given for 100 Watt luminaires if the Engineer can
justify their use on a project to achieve the Authoritys Design Criteria.
In general, lighting standards with 26/30 foot mounting height shall be
used for ramp roadway illumination, and lighting standards with 40 foot

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 42

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

mounting height shall be used for mainline roadway illumination.

However, 26/30 foot lighting standards may be used for roadways up to
36 feet wide, where existing 26/30-foot lighting systems are required to
be modified. The Engineer shall perform calculations to determine the
optimal pole height for any given installation.
2. Special architectural type luminaires may be utilized, as approved by the
Authority, for Service Area applications.
3. Pole-Top Cutoff luminaire photometric requirements for Type P2, P3 and
P4 luminaires shall be in accordance with Standard Drawing E-xx (to be
published at a later date). Use of the luminaires shall be as follows:
Type P2 Mongoose with Flat Glass and Narrow reflector (IES Type
I/II) optics
Type P3 Mongoose with Flat Glass and Wide roadway reflector
(IES Type III) optics
Type P4 Mongoose with Flat Glass and Forward Throw reflector
(IES Type IV) optics
The following chart in Exhibit 7 - 21 summarizes the photometrics that
shall be used for designs on both the Parkway and Turnpike, and gives
recommendations where and how each type of luminaire should be
used. Because of the variety of project geometrics, it is expected that
these recommendations may have to be adapted for some projects. The
Engineer shall perform calculations using the guidelines below to
determine the optimal lighting equipment and layout based on the other
parameters and requirements of this Section.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 43

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

EXHIBIT 7 - 21
TYPE P LUMINAIRE INSTALLATION GUIDELINES
T YPE

LAMP
2
WATTS

IES
DIST.
T YPE

P2

100

P2

150

P2

250

II

P2

400

II

P3
150
P3
250
P3
400
P4
150
P4
250
P4
400
Footnotes:

III
III
III
IV
IV
IV

OPTICS T YPE
Narrow
Roadway
Narrow
Roadway
Narrow
Roadway
Narrow
Roadway
Wide Roadway
Wide Roadway
Wide Roadway
Forward Throw
Forward Throw
Forward Throw

NOMINAL
MOUNTING
HEIGHT
26

Ramps and Bridges < 30 in width4

26 / 40

Design Areas < 48 in width

40

Design Areas < 48 in width

Not approved

40
40
26 / 40
40
40

Not approved
Special geometry1
Toll plazas and special geometry1
Special geometry1
Design Areas > 60 in width
Toll plazas, double & triple installations3

RECOMMENDED USE

* All luminaires are Flat Glass, Full Cutoff, Clear High Pressure Sodium (HPS)
1
Luminaire to be used in areas of non-standard geometry, varying widths, or transitions between light
levels, and only when other approved fixtures do not work. Use shall be approved in advance by the
Authority.
2
Lamp wattage (in Watts) does not include ballast losses.
3
A tilt of no more than 5 degrees shall be allowed for all luminaires. Greater tilt angles shall be utilized
only with an approved modification of Design Criteria (See Subsection 7.1.3). A tilt of up to 18
degrees shall be allowed for Type P4 400 Watt luminaire where required if no full-cutoff (5 degree
tilt max) solution can be made to work.
4
100 Watt fixtures to be used only where 150 watt luminaires are proven ineffective to meet NJTA
Design Criteria as established herein, and approved in advance by the Authoritys Engineering
Department.

4. Offset luminaire photometric requirements for Type E offset luminaires

shall be in accordance with the Standard Drawing.
5. Additional luminaire requirements shall be as described elsewhere in this
Section.
6. Mercury Vapor lamps shall be specified only where maintaining existing
lighting systems, or where required to be installed in accordance with the
Standard Drawings or Specifications. High Pressure Sodium lamps shall
be utilized for all roadway lighting applications, except as directed by the
Authoritys Engineering Department. Metal Halide lamps shall be used in
all parking lot lighting systems, and shall not be used for any systems
that require a 24-hour on-time, as the lamps are required to cycle on-off
for optimal lamp life.
7.3.3

Highmast and Floodlighting Systems

1. Highmast and floodlighting systems shall utilize 80- to 100-foot-high
galvanized steel towers equipped with six to twelve 400 or 1000 watt

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 44

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

HPS luminaires as shown on Standard Drawing E-xx (to be published at

a later date), as outlined in the Standard Specifications, or as otherwise
approved by the Authoritys Engineering Department. The number and
types of fixtures provided on a given project shall be kept to a minimum.
2. Highmast and Floodlighting Lighting Standards shall be located free of
the clear zone (usually 30 feet on most roadways) or protected by
physical obstruction or a raised foundation.
3. Use of 750 Watt luminaires shall be avoided due to excessive cost of
these lamps relative to lamps of other wattages.
4. Unless otherwise directed, all Highmast and Floodlighting poles in
excess of 50 feet shall be designed with lowering devices, a bottomlatching chain assembly, lightning protection, proper grounding, guide
rollers to prevent swaying while the luminaires are being lowered, and a
method to safely prevent the ring or floodlighting assembly from rotating
or moving unexpectedly when lowered for relamping.
5. Proper aiming of each fixture, including orientation angle, tilt angle, and
appropriate reference angle information, shall be included in the plans
for all Highmast and Floodlighting Systems.
6. Highmast Luminaires photometric requirements shall be as shown on the
Standard Drawings, and shall be provided as described in the Standard
Specifications.
Floodlight luminaire specifications and photometric
requirements shall be provided by the Engineer for review and approval
by the Authoritys Engineering Department. Where proposed equipment
is not specified in the Standard Drawings or Specifications, the Engineer
shall write supplemental specifications if necessary for specific Highmast
and Floodlighting installations to ensure that specific project constraints
are adequately addressed.
7.3.4

Emergency Lighting and Generator Backup

Where installed at toll plazas or facilities with emergency generators, all new
roadway lighting systems shall be fully connected to circuits that retain
power in the case of emergency. Thus, in the event of power failure, all toll
plaza lighting shall remain functional.
Lighting systems powered by standalone load centers do not require
generator backup, unless otherwise directed.
Many existing toll plazas on the Turnpike have separate Emergency Lighting
Systems installed where the entire roadway lighting system is not powered
by circuits from the emergency generator. Emergency luminaires, in this
case, give illumination on the two approach sides of each Toll Plaza for
traffic approaching toll booths in case of power failure.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 45

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

New Emergency Lighting Systems shall not be installed at either Turnpike or

Parkway Toll Plazas. Where projects modify significant portions of toll plaza
lighting systems, the Engineer shall consider upgrade of the lighting system
for the entire interchange, and connection to the generator.
This
replacement may also be warranted in order to convert existing series
lighting systems to multiple type lighting systems. Should connection of the
entire system not be warranted, the Emergency Lighting System shall be
maintained, and reinstalled where disturbed.
Emergency lighting luminaires shall be Type-E1 or Type-E2 (see Standard
Drawings and Specifications) as necessary to provide sufficient lighting, and
shall be installed on top of or on the upper portion of lighting standard
shafts, or on top of floodlighting towers, as required. In small toll plazas, a
minimum of six emergency luminaires, three on each approach and
immediately adjacent to the toll booths, should be provided. However, in
large plazas the emergency lighting system should be continuous from each
approach bullnose to the toll booths. Details for Emergency luminaire
installation shall be requested from the Authority for use in projects that are
modifying existing Emergency Lighting systems.
7.3.5

Underbridge Lighting
The intention of underbridge lighting is not to accent the roadways beneath
structures, but rather to provide adequate illumination and to achieve
continuity of lighting throughout the roadway. Therefore, underbridge
lighting shall only be required where, due to structural limitations such as the
width, skew and minimum clearance, adequate illumination cannot be
accomplished by means of ground-mounted lighting standards.
Underbridge lighting luminaires shall be high pressure sodium type (see
Standard Specifications) and shall be installed on bridge piers or abutments
(Type-W) or supported by structural members (Type-S), as required.
1. Mounting height shall be as required for proper illumination of the
roadway, and as follows:
Type-W Luminaires:
Type-S Luminaires:

15 ft. minimum
Bottom of luminaire in line with
bottom of adjacent stringer
flange.

2. Luminaire setback (light center to pavement edge distance) shall be as

per the following minimum requirements:
Type-W Luminaires:
Type-S Luminaires:

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

Face of pier or abutment to

pavement edge.
3 ft. beyond pavement edge
over shoulder.

7 - 46

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

3. Luminaires wattage of 150 Watt HPS shall be utilized if at all possible.

70 Watt and 100 Watt luminaires will be approved only if necessary to
meet Authority design criteria.
4. Photometric requirements shall be as shown on the Standard Drawings
and Specifications.
5. For installations requiring Type S luminaires, the Engineer shall ensure
that location of the luminaires, and the mounting detail does not block
the light output to the roadway. Additional modeling may be required to
determine this for installations between tightly spaced stringers.
7.3.6

Toll Plaza Lighting

Toll Plaza Lighting Systems shall conform to the requirements of the other
lighting systems described in this Section. The Engineer shall not utilize
non-standard lighting systems for toll plazas.

7.3.7

Roadway Tunnel Lighting

Owing to the specialized nature of tunnel lighting, non-standard luminaires
and installation methods may be required. The Engineer shall utilize
Authority standard luminaires, equipment, mounting, and construction
methods wherever possible for tunnel lighting installations. Where it is
necessary to utilize non-standard items, the Engineer shall make
recommendations of equipment to be installed, and proper installation
methods, in accordance with Subsection 7.1.3.
If possible, location of luminaires and mounting shall be as described above
for Underbridge Lighting. All conduits and equipment shall be installed to
minimize likelihood of vehicle impact, to facilitate relamping and
maintenance, and to keep a high level of system uptime.

7.3.8

Maintenance Area / Storage Area Lighting

Storage Facility and Maintenance Yard Lighting shall be constructed of
either the Conventional or Pole-Top Cutoff Lighting System. The Engineer
shall weigh the various systems and equipment that can be installed, and
make recommendations based on engineering judgment.

7.3.9

Parking Lot Lighting

Parking Lot Lighting systems, including the lighting at Service Areas, may
require the use of special architectural fixtures and poles. The Engineer
shall contact the Authoritys Engineering Department for specific design
requirements, prior to design.

7.3.10 Temporary Roadway Lighting

Design and construction sequence of the roadway lighting system should be
arranged so that the permanent lighting installations will be completed and in
operation when the new roadways are opened to traffic. If this cannot be
MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 47

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

accomplished, temporary lighting should be provided for these roadways.

All installations which are required to be removed at the end of the
construction should be of temporary nature.
Illumination levels and uniformity requirements for temporary lighting
systems shall be as prescribed above for permanent lighting systems. A
temporary lighting system is expected to produce a level of illumination
equal to that of a permanent system. However, physical arrangements and
equipment criteria are modified to enable an abbreviated and less costly
installation. Maintainability, constructability and safety considerations should
not be compromised in temporary lighting systems.
The following general criteria are provided for temporary lighting systems.
Unless otherwise stated below, criteria relating to permanent lighting
systems apply for the design of temporary systems.
1. Screw-type bases or other above-ground bases may be used with
lighting standard installations in lieu of concrete bases and Junction Box
Foundations where protected from vehicle impact.
2. Wood poles with Type A, B, C or D cutoff cobrahead luminaires with
bracket arms or Type P2/P3/P4 HPS luminaires with pole-mounted
tenons may be used for roadway lighting applications.
3. Wood poles with HPS offset type luminaires may be used for roadway
lighting applications and in areas where a large setback is necessary to
clear construction activity. Type-E offset luminaries utilize a modified
reflector system to permit use along the edge of roadway while
maintaining a standard setback of 3'-6". Offset luminaires are available
without the modified reflector system and are designed to perform with a
much greater setback. These units, although not a standard type used
for Authority systems, are acceptable for temporary installations, where
appropriate. Where possible, however, the Engineer shall attempt to
use the Type P4 cutoff luminaires to minimize glare in the work area. As
with permanent installations, offset luminaires shall be used only where
approved in advance by the Authoritys Engineering Department.
4. Wood poles with HPS floodlighting type luminaires may be used for area
lighting applications.
5. Each temporary lighting standard and wood pole location shall be
properly grounded with a separate ground rod installation. Additionally,
all temporary distribution wiring (multiconductor direct burial, aerial cable
or individual wiring in conduit) shall incorporate a separate ground wire to
provide a continuous ground throughout the entire circuit.
6. Lighting standard identification tags, as shown on the Standard
Drawings, will not be required for temporary installations. However, an
approved weatherproof write-on-type-tag should be installed at each
temporary location indicating circuit number and phase connection.
MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 48

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

7. Lighting standards and equipment shall be set back from edge of

roadway in accordance with the requirements of the Standard Drawings
when construction activity will not be expected to conflict or interfere.
7.3.11 Sign Lighting
Sign lighting luminaires, where required, shall be 250 watt mercury vapor
with a metal halide ballast as outlined in the Standard Specifications.
Illumination, installation, and photometric requirements shall conform to the
Standard Drawings. The Contract Plans shall also include the following
additional information:
1. Luminaire arrangement for each sign panel, based the tabulation
included in Standard Drawing E-xx (to be published at a later date), shall
be coordinated with and shown on the Structural Elevations for each
illuminated overhead sign structure or bridge-mounted sign.
2. Circuit provisions for each sign structure or bridge-mounted sign, either
from roadway lighting circuitry (group controlled) or from a local utility
(24-hour service), shall be shown on the Roadway Lighting Plans.
3. Relocation of Sign Lighting where existing sign panels are replaced with
new panels, and the new panel is of a different dimension than the old
panel.
7.3.12 Navigation and Aviation Obstruction Lighting
The Engineer shall select appropriate Navigation and Aviation Obstruction
Lighting equipment per the requirements set forth by the governing
authorities (see Subsection 7.2.1.8), and shall utilize this equipment in the
design. Fixtures that utilize long-life light-emitting diode (LED) sources shall
be favored if available.
7.3.13 Lighting Standard Bases and Junction Box Foundations
Construction methods and typical installation details for standard concrete
bases, Junction Box Foundations, junction boxes, and roadway lighting
manholes shall be in accordance with Standard Specifications and Standard
Drawings. All other special details required for the Project shall be prepared
by the Engineer.
While it is recognized that many existing Parkway lighting systems have the
Junction Box Foundations oriented with the boxes closer to the road, all
newly-installed JBFs shall be oriented with the pole closer to the roadway on
all Authority projects.
Junction Box Foundations shall be used wherever possible. Concrete Light
Standard Bases with separate Type C or Type D Junction Box shall be used
only where specific right of way or project constraints prevent the installation
of Junction Box Foundations.
MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 49

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

Additional requirements for underground junction boxes, handholes, and

manholes may be found in Subsection 7.4.4.1.

7.4

POWER DISTRIBUTION AND RACEWAY SYSTEM DESIGN

7.4.1

General
The Power Distribution System includes all underground and above ground
conduits, boxes, manholes, and foundations, wiring, and power distribution
equipment necessary to provide the various lighting and other electrical
systems with power. All Power Distribution Systems, as well as all raceways
shall be designed in accordance with the NEC and the guidance of this
Subsection.

7.4.2

Electric Service
7.4.2.1 General
The secondary service obtained from the local utility company shall
be used to provide power for the complete installation in each area,
except at larger scale installations where it may be more economical
to utilize primary service. An economic analysis of each type of
service shall be submitted by the Engineer for review and approval
by the Authoritys Engineering Department.
The Engineer shall coordinate with the utility company on behalf of
the Authority to obtain new, modified, and upgraded utility services
as project may require. Services shall be located to minimize
interference with other project work and as required below in
Subsection 7.4.3. The Engineer shall also make every attempt to
locate load centers, select voltages and coordinate with the utility
company to minimize the extents of Authority maintenance on all new
utility services. Coordination shall be as described in Section 7
(Utilities) of the Procedures Manual.
Standard services available from the local utility companies are as
follows:
1. 3-phase 4-wire Secondary Service shall be 120/208 Volt or
277/480 Volt. Single-phase 3-wire Secondary Service shall be
120/240 Volt or 240/480 Volt.
Certain older installations on the Turnpike may utilize three-phase
265/460 Volt services.
The Engineer shall perform all
calculations using the 277/480 Voltage, but shall note the
265/460 Volt installation methods in the plans accordingly.
2. Primary Service:

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

2,400/4,160 Volt and 7,620/13,200 Volt

7 - 50

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

4,160 Volt service should be used, except in those restricted

areas where only 13,200 Volt may be available. This matter
should be checked with the utility company.
7.4.2.2 Building Electrical Services
At building locations, if secondary service is used, additional
transformation shall be made by means of a bank of single-phase
transformers (preferred) or a three-phase transformer in the building,
in order to provide two (2) types of utilized voltages for the building
and roadway lighting service requirements. If primary service is
used, an outdoor transformer station within the immediate vicinity of
the building shall be constructed to service the entire area. Two (2)
sets of single-phase, oil-immersed transformer banks shall be
installed in the transformer station to accommodate the utility building
and roadway lighting service requirements.
In addition, each Utility Building shall be provided with an emergency
generator of the required size, to include all roadway lighting load in
addition to building emergency loads.
New lighting distribution panels and load centers shall be located
within buildings, and not in free-standing outdoor enclosures, unless
required for installation due to space constraints or maintenance (i.e.
for series-type transformer stations). This requirement includes toll
plaza utility buildings.
7.4.2.3 Services Not Located at Buildings
In areas where the existing roadway lighting and associated facilities
are being modified and/or expanded, the existing load centers are
generally located in the interchange Utility Buildings or outdoor
transformer stations. Circuitry originating at these existing load
centers shall be used for the modified and/or expanded lighting
facilities, to the maximum extent possible.
Where lighting loads and the physical limits of circuitry prohibit the
utilization of existing load centers, new outdoor type load centers
shall be provided as described in Subsection 7.4.3.
Transformation for standalone load centers shall be by utility
transformer, either pad-mounted near the load center, or mounted on
the pole nearest the load center installation. Load center voltage
may be determined by the available voltages on the utility power
distribution system located near the load center.
7.4.2.4 Utilized Voltage
Utilized voltage for various Power Distribution facilities shall be as
follows:

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 51

NJTA Design Manual

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

1.

Buildings:

120/208 Volt 3-phase, 4-wire

(Building lighting and equipment)
277/480 Volt 3-phase, 4-wire (HVAC
and certain lighting loads - see
below)

2.

Roadway Lighting:

277/480 Volt, 3-phase, 4-wire

120/240 Volt, single-phase, 3-wire
240/480 Volt, single-phase, 3-wire
(Engineer to determine supply
voltage on Parkway. 277/480 Volt to
be supplied at all Turnpike locations
and where possible on the Parkway.)

3.

Highmast Lighting:

277/480 Volt, 3-phase, 4-wire.

4.

Floodlighting:

277/480 Volt, 3-phase, 4-wire.

5.

Underbridge Lighting:

To be connected to roadway lighting

circuits, where available. Engineer
to determine voltage for standalone
installations.

6.

Emergency Lighting:

120/208 Volt, 3-phase, 4-wire.

277/480 Volt, 3-phase, 4-wire, as
required. (existing installations only)

7.

Overhead Sign
Structures with Fixed
Message Signs:

To be connected to roadway lighting

circuits, where available.

8.

Changeable Message
Signs:

Power and control 120/240V, single

phase, 3-wire (24-hour service).
Lighting shall be connected to
roadway lighting circuits where
available, otherwise serviced from
the 24-hour power and control
circuits.

9.

Emergency Speed
Warning/
Speed Limit Signs:

120/240V, single phase, 3-wire (24hour service) for all power, control
and lighting.

10.

Variable Message
Signs:

120/240V, single phase, 3-wire (24hour service) for all power, control
and lighting.

7 - 52

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

11.

Other Roadway and ITS

Devices:

120/240 Volt, single-phase, 3-wire,

or connected to area 24-hour power
circuits

Power for facilities which require normal and emergency service shall
be obtained from the Utility Building lighting panels. The entire
roadway lighting system, including highmast and floodlighting, shall
be fed from the roadway lighting panelboard.
The 24-hour service for changeable message signs, emergency
speed warning/speed limit signs, variable message signs, cameras,
and other ITS devices shall either be obtained from the roadway
lighting panelboards at 480 Volt (2-wire) and transformed to
120/240V in the load center at the sign location or obtained from a
local utility service pole, as required.
At certain long-span bridges and southern toll plazas on the
Turnpike, existing series lighting systems are still in use. Where a
substantial portion of the lighting system requires replacement as a
result of project work and a multiple system is feasible, the system
shall be upgraded to a multiple system at the utilized voltages listed
above. In this case, the lighting distribution equipment / load center
shall be replaced. Conversion work from a series to a multiple
system shall require, at a minimum, replacement of system wiring
and luminaires. The Engineer shall perform an analysis of the cost
of this work, to be included with the Phase A submission, in order
for the Authoritys Engineering Department to review and approve
the system replacement.
Where existing series systems are not replaced as a result of project
work, the Engineer shall perform all calculations and design using
industry standard practices for series system lighting design.
7.4.3

Circuitry and Voltage Drop

1. Minimum size of cable for roadway lighting circuits shall be #2 AWG, and
maximum shall be #4/0 AWG. Other standard sizes, such as #1/0 AWG,
and #2/0 AWG shall be used as required, but it is recommended that
variations in cable sizes be kept to a minimum in each project. Parallel
feeders shall not be installed for lighting systems. Where ampacity
allows, #6 AWG wiring is permitted to be installed between the main
lighting feeder and various equipment, such as sign lighting, variable
message signs, or various other ITS devices. #10 AWG wire between
feeders and individual fixtures or equipment shall be permitted to be
installed up to a length of fifty (50) feet.
2. On the Turnpike and where possible on the Parkway, the Power
Distribution system for roadway lighting and other roadway equipment
shall be fed from a single load center installation, which is generally to

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 53

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

be located inside an Authority-owned building (Utility, Toll Plaza, Police

Barracks, Service Area, Maintenance Shop, etc.).
In very large areas, additional (auxiliary) standalone load center
installations may prove to be more economical than running extremely
long circuits requiring large size cables. Service for these installations
may be extended from main building if primary service is used; otherwise
secondary service should be obtained locally from the utility. Padmounted transformers should be used in conjunction with auxiliary load
centers which are provided with primary service.
Where smaller projects require installation or modification of Roadway
Electrical Systems and power is not available from a nearby building, a
standalone load center shall be installed, and secondary service
obtained from the utility locally. Effort shall be taken to minimize the
number or standalone load centers, and therefore ongoing maintenance
and cost.
Engineers shall prepare a cost-benefit analysis when proposing more
than one standalone load center in a given project, to be submitted for
review at the time of the Phase A Submission.
Standalone load centers shall be installed as shown in the Standard
Drawings, and as described below under Utility Services.
3. All lighting systems shall be group controlled by means of a photoelectric
control device dedicated for use by the system. The photoelectric
control shall be located where it is easily maintained and facing North
where possible for optimal operation. The photoelectric control shall be
wired to control a single contactor that feeds a separate roadway lighting
panelboard. Individual circuits shall not be controlled by the photocell.
The photocell shall be located such that it is not affected by light sources
in the vicinity of the lighting control equipment, to ensure continuous
reliable nighttime operation of the lighting system.
4. Where 24-hour continuous-on circuits are required for equipment that is
in an area served by a Roadway Lighting System, the 24-hour circuits
shall be powered from the same utility room or load center, and the
power shall be taken from a circuit located upstream of the Roadway
Lighting contactor.
5. For three-phase systems, each circuit shall be 3-phase, 4-wire with a
shared neutral. Luminaires shall be connected to alternate phases of
the same circuit. For single-phase systems, each circuit shall be 2-leg,
3-wire with a shared neutral. Luminaires shall be connected to alternate
legs of the same circuit. Ballast connections shall be made between the
phase and neutral cables of each circuit in order to accommodate the
appropriate voltage operation. Phase-to-Phase installations shall be
avoided, and shall be utilized only where approved in advance by the
Authoritys Engineering Department.
MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 54

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

6. For three-phase, 4-wire and single-phase 3-wire phase-to-neutral

circuits, all phases and legs of each circuit shall be balanced as closely
as possible to minimize the neutral current.
7. Each luminaire ballast shall be individually protected by means of a
fused cable connector kit, as indicated on the Standard Drawings.
8. For both single- and three-phase circuits, the lighting circuits shall be
designed for a maximum current of 35 Amps, and shall be provided with
a circuit breaker with maximum 50 Amp trip capacity at the panelboard.
For circuits where 35 Amp capacity is insufficient, the maximum current
may be increased to 50 Amps, and the circuit breaker trip increased to
70 Amps. Breaker trip currents shall be selected to be at least 140% of
continuous circuit current, to allow operation of the lighting loads and
prevent nuisance tripping. Lower circuit breaker sizes shall be allowed,
and are preferred in smaller installations to reduce wire size. The
Authority maintains no set limit of the number of luminaires that may be
connected to a given circuit, as long as each circuit meets the other
requirements of this Section.
9. Continuous-on 24-hour circuits shall be designed to utilize a maximum
breaker size of 20 Amps, unless otherwise noted or the specific
equipment to be powered requires a larger circuit ampacity.
10. Lighting circuits shall be designed for a maximum of 3% voltage drop at
the terminal point of each circuit (including the future lighting extensions,
where required) calculated between the phase and neutral. All circuit
breakers for area lighting circuits in the panelboard shall be of the single
pole type.
Final voltage drop calculations shall be based on actual current on each
phase and unbalance current in the neutral for each circuit length
between all lighting equipment and other loads, etc., utilizing AC
resistance for uncoated copper conductor as listed in NEC Chapter 9
(Table 9). To simplify calculations, up to fifty (50) feet of #10 AWG
fixture wire between the feeder and luminaires shall be permitted to be
omitted from the voltage drop calculations.
All single-phase and three-phase systems shall be analyzed using a
single-phase method utilizing the Authoritys Standard Voltage Drop
Computation Form. An electronic version of the Excel Spreadsheet is
available on the Authoritys website. Each leg/phase of the circuit shall
be analyzed separately. A sample completed form and sketch are
shown following in Exhibit 7 - 22.
Voltage drop calculations shall take into account all existing equipment
to remain in place for the final design. It shall not be sufficient to analyze
to voltage drop for new equipment only, unless the entire circuit is new.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 55

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

EXHIBIT 7 - 22
SAMPLE VOLTAGE DROP CALCULATION FORMS 1 AND 2

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 56

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

New Jersey Turnpike Authority

Standard Voltage Drop Computation Form 1 - Calculations
XYZ Engineering Company
Made by
Date
CIRCUIT # 3
PHASE # B
100 Main Street
M. Nesmith
1/2/2003
Hackensack, NJ 07601
Checked by
Date
VOLTAGE # 277 V
Contract No:
T300.019
D. Jones
1/3/2003
Name: Interchange 19
Reconstruction

Backchecked by

Date

Sheet Number

P. Tork

1 of 2

1/5/2003

Instructions:
Calculations shall be performed for each circuit branch separately, including all existing lamps and loads, if any are
connected to the circuit. Select worst case branch voltage drop to determine total circuit voltage drop. DO NOT
TOTAL ALL DROPS. Use NEC Chapter 9, Table 9 to determine appropriate resistance values, taking into account
overall circuit Power Factor as described in the footnotes to the Table. Use additional forms if required for long
circuits. Complete one complete set of forms for each circuit and phase.

Distance Ohms/K ft Z=2xLx0.001x

L

Section

From

To

Current
I

BRANCH A
1
2
3
4

Panel
JB1
1-3-B
4-3-B

JB1
1-3-B
4-3-B
7-3-B

8.77
3.51
2.34
1.17

500
700
250
250

0.2
0.2
0.2
0.2

0.20
0.28
0.10
0.10
TOTAL

1.754
0.983
0.234
0.117
3.088

BRANCH B
1
2
3
4
5

Panel
JB1
10-3-B
JB2
13-3-B

JB1
10-3-B
JB2
13-3-B
16-3-B

8.77
5.26
4.09
2.34
1.17

500
400
300
300
200

0.2
0.2
0.2
0.2
0.2

0.20
0.16
0.12
0.12
0.08
TOTAL

1.754
0.842
0.491
0.281
0.094
3.461

BRANCH C
1
2
3
4

Panel
JB1
10-3-B
JB2

JB1
10-3-B
JB2
19-3-B

8.77
5.26
4.09
1.75

500
400
300
100

0.2
0.2
0.2
0.2

0.20
0.16
0.12
0.04
TOTAL

1.754
0.842
0.491
0.070
3.156

Worst Case Branch:

B
% Vd =
3.461 V / 277 V =

1.25%

Vd=IxZ
Vd

is less than 3%

Comments: (To be filled in by Engineer)

All wires selected to be #2 AWG in steel conduit (Z=0.20 per 1000 ft - per NEC Chapter 9, Table 9),
Power Factor assumed to be 0.96.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 57

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

New Jersey Turnpike Authority

Standard Voltage Drop Computation Form 2 - Sketch and Details
CIRCUIT # 3
XYZ Engineering Company
Made by
Date
M. Nesmith
PHASE # B
100 Main Street
1/2/2003
VOLTAGE # 277 V
Hackensack, NJ 07601
Checked by
Date
Contract No:
T300.019
D. Jones
1/3/2003
Name: Interchange 19 Reconstruction

Backchecked by

Date

P. Tork
Circuit Information
Load Center Location
Total Load (kW):
Wire Size:
Lamp Quantities:

Plaza Utility Building

1.9 kW
#2 AWG
Watts
Quantity
70
100
150
200

Sheet Number
1/5/2003

Voltage:
Phase and # Wires
Conduit Type:
Watts
Quantity
250
6
310
400
1
1000

2 of 2
277 V
Three Phase, 4-Wire
RMC Steel

Instructions:
Show a sketch of the circuit below. Do not include any #10 AWG fixture wire.

BRANCH A

PANEL

500 ft
8.77 A

JB1

700 ft
3.51 A

1-3-B
250W

250 ft
2.34 A

4-3-B
250W

400 ft
5.26 A

250 ft
1.17 A

10-3-B
250W
B
R
A
N
C
H
C

7-3-B
250W

300 ft
4.09 A
JB-2

BRANCH B

300 ft
2.34 A

13-3-B
250W

200 ft
1.17 A

16-3-B
250W

100 ft
1.75 A
19-3-B
400W

Comments: (To be filled in by Engineer)

All wire for this circuit is #2 AWG

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 58

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

11. Lighting circuits shall be so arranged that in case of failure in one of the
circuits, it is possible to re-route the failed circuit with a minimum of work.
In order to accomplish this flexibility in the circuitry, an empty conduit
shall be provided to connect the adjacent circuits, where feasible, and all
four (4) cables of each circuit shall be extended to the respective
junction box, Junction Box Foundation or manhole at each end of such
empty conduit. Terminals of the unused cables shall be test capped in
each junction box or manhole.
12. Spare conductors shall be installed if future roadway devices or lighting
is anticipated. All feeder phase conductors shall be continued to the last
device on each circuit, and unused conductors shall be shown as
capped in the junction box or manhole. This procedure ensures that
future continuation of circuits, or future changing of phase connections is
possible.
13. In all toll plazas or roadways where additional future widening is
contemplated, the locations of underground conduits, junction boxes,
manholes and floodlighting towers should be beyond the limits of future
widening, if possible. Lighting standards, however, should be installed
along the present edge of the pavement.
14. Where multiple circuit feeders are installed in one conduit, the conductor
ampacities shall be derated in accordance with the NEC.
15. Lamp ballast input wattages shall be as shown in the following Exhibit 7 23:

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 59

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

EXHIBIT 7 - 23
TABLE OF BALLAST INPUT WATTAGE / CURRENT
Lamp
Output
(Watts)
70 HPS
100 HPS
150 HPS
200 HPS
250 HPS
310 HPS
400 HPS
1000 HPS
250 MV
NOTES:

Total
Amperes Amperes Amperes Amperes
Input
at
at
at
at
(Watts)
120 Volts 208 Volts 240 Volts 277 Volts
100
0.87
0.50
0.43
0.38
140
1.22
0.70
0.61
0.53
190
1.65
0.95
0.82
0.71
250
2.17
1.25
1.09
0.94
310
2.69
1.55
1.35
1.17
365
3.17
1.83
1.58
1.37
465
4.04
2.33
2.02
1.75
1100
9.55
5.51
4.77
4.14
290
2.52
1.45
1.26
1.09
Values shown only for lamps typically used on Authority
projects. Ampere values shown assume a lagging power
factor PF = 0.96, which shall be used to calculate current for
lamps of other types. For lamps of other types, the Engineer
shall determine Watt, Ampere, and Power Factor values
using the fixture manufacturers recommendations.

The Engineer may use different values from those shown above if
engineering judgment dictates that actual wattages will differ from the
values shown in the above table.
7.4.4

Raceway System Design

7.4.4.1 Underground Junction Boxes, Handholes, and Manholes
1. In order to facilitate cable pulling and splicing, a junction box or
manhole, as required, shall be installed adjacent to each lighting
standard base, highmast or floodlighting tower, illuminated sign
structure pedestal, bridge-mounted sign, underbridge lighting
system, and at each end of conduit crossings under roadways.
The location of conduit crossings shall be so arranged that the
junction boxes or manholes at such crossings can also be used
as service points to the above-noted facilities.
2. The junction box may be omitted at a lighting standard located at
the end of a circuit where no future expansion is anticipated.
3. Junction boxes shall be installed at the end of spare conduit runs
in barriers, walls, and structures, at the point nearest the
wingwall, for future continuation of the conduit.
4. Junction boxes and Junction Box Foundations shall be installed
within a maximum pulling distance of 250 feet.
5. Standard junction boxes are designed to carry a maximum of
three (3) in-line conduits. Manholes should be used in lieu of

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 60

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

junction boxes whenever there are more than three (3) in-line
conduit runs, or where angled pulls require a larger box (as
dictated by the requirements of the NEC).
6. In special cases where the number of circuits and cable sizes
involved are in excess of the standard manhole capacity, larger
manholes of an approved design should be used. Large size
manholes may be of cast-in-place type, and the Engineer shall
provide a design in the plans.
7. Type D Junction Boxes shall be used in all barriers and parapets
as shown in the Standard Drawings. Alternate designs will not be
accepted.
7.4.4.2 Conduits and Raceways
1. Separate conduit raceways shall be provided for each roadway
lighting circuit. In certain cases where small size wiring is
required, cables for two or more circuits may be installed in the
same conduit.
2. Wherever practical, wiring for 24-hour circuits shall be contained
in a conduit dedicated to this use. However, 24-hour circuits shall
be permitted to pass through junction boxes for Roadway
Lighting or other systems, provided the insulation on all cables is
sufficient for the maximum voltage present in the box.
3. At all locations where conduits pass under an active roadway,
driveway, or parking area, a spare conduit shall be provided in
addition to all conduits required for the initial system installation.
At major main feeder crossings, two spare conduits are
recommended. One spare conduit, in addition to the active
conduit, should be provided on all bridge and wall structures,
even those structures which do not require installation of wiring or
cables at the time the structures are constructed.
4. Conduits shall be provided in barriers, walls, and bridge
parapets as outlined in this subsection. Conduits shall be
placed in accordance with details shown on Authority
Standard Drawings BR-4 and BR-7. More specifically:
Bridges carrying mainline or ramp roadways
Bridge parapets adjacent to the right shoulder(s) on
structures carrying mainline roadways shall be
provided with two 3 diameter (nom.) conduits.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

One bridge parapet on structures carrying entry/exit

ramp roadways shall be provided with two 3 diameter
(nom.) conduits. The conduits shall be located in the
parapet which supports the ramp roadway lighting, if
7 - 61

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

applicable. There is no preference as to which parapet

the conduit shall be located in for these structures
which do not have roadway lighting.

These conduits shall only be used to support circuits

that power lighting and/or electrical appurtenances
located directly on that bridge as required by current
or future design. Conduits designated for future use
which are not connected past the end of a structure
shall be terminated and capped in the embankment a
minimum of 10 feet past the end of the wingwall and/or
approach slab.

A single 3 diameter (nom.) conduit shall be installed

in one of the two bridge parapets on dedicated
Official Use Only U-turn structures. It is preferred
that the conduit be located in the parapet adjacent to
the inside radius of these structures which are
configured into a U type alignment. There is no
preference as to which parapet the conduit shall be
located in for these structures which are configured
into an S type alignment.
Conduits designated for future use which are not
connected past the end of a structure shall be
terminated and capped in the embankment a minimum
of 10ft past the end of the wingwall and/or approach
slab.

Retaining Walls
Retaining walls that are continuous with bridges
carrying mainline and/or ramp roadways shall be
provided with conduits in parapet(s) to match the
conduits in the adjacent bridge parapet(s). These
conduits shall be continuous with the conduits in the
adjacent structure parapet(s). Free standing retaining
wall parapets that are not continuous with bridges
carrying turnpike mainline and/or ramp roadways and
supporting roadways that do not require lighting or
ITS facilities shall not be provided with conduits.
Conduits located along retaining wall alignments shall
be placed in the embankment under the roadway
shoulder pavement only where required by design for
roadway lighting or ITS systems.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

Conduits designated for future use which are not

connected past the end of a retaining wall structure
shall be terminated and capped in the embankment a
minimum of 10 feet past the end of the retaining wall.

7 - 62

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

5. All local road structures over Turnpike and Parkway

roadways shall have provisions for two (2) 3 conduits, to be
located in either parapet. The conduit is to be a provision for
future lighting or utility work. More specifically:
Bridges not carrying mainline or ramp roadways
One of the bridge parapets on structures carrying
local roadways over mainline or ramp roadways shall
be provided with two 3 diameter (nom.) conduits.
The conduits shall be located in the parapet which
supports the local roadway lighting, if applicable. For
two-direction bridges, there is no preference as to
which parapet the conduit shall be located in for
structures which do not have roadway lighting. For
one-direction bridges, preference shall be given to the
parapet adjacent to the larger roadway shoulder or
sidewalk. Additional conduits may be required as per
local road owner criteria, and as approved by the
NJTA. The provisions of Bullet 3 under Bridges
carrying mainline or ramp roadways above do not
apply for local road bridges. Additional conduits
which are required for these structures by local road
owners shall be located in the structure parapet, if
practical.
6. All local road structures over Turnpike and Parkway roadways
shall have provisions for two (2) 3 conduits, to be located in
either parapet. The conduit is to be a provision for future lighting
or utility work. The Authoritys Engineering Department should be
contacted for updated information on this matter.
7. Underground handholes, manholes, junction boxes, and other
structures carrying electrical wiring shall be drained by connecting
a 2 minimum perforated PVC pipe to the nearest drainage inlet.
Care shall be taken to ensure that the inlet invert is below the
bottom of the box or manhole to prevent water from flowing
through the electrical raceway system. A removable screen or
filter fabric shall be installed to prevent sediment from entering
the drain pipe. Pipe installation shall be shown on the drainage
plans, and shall be noted on the Electrical and/or Roadway
Lighting Plans. Where electrical equipment is installed in areas
without drainage systems, the Engineer shall assess whether
supplementary drainage is required for the electrical installation,
taking into account the height of the water table, soil material, etc.
8. Unless installed in an environmentally controlled space with no
likelihood of water entering the conduit system, conduits shall
enter all exposed cabinets from the bottom, or on the sides within
2 of the bottom of the cabinet. Under no circumstances shall

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 63

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

conduits be allowed to enter the tops of any exterior, or tunnelmounted cabinets containing electrical equipment.
9. Wireways shall be used in installations wherever practical to
minimize the number of conduits necessary.
Where
communications and power raceways are required to connect
multiple equipment enclosures, a partitioned wireway shall be
permitted. The partition shall be mechanically attached to the
wireway such that its water-tightness is not compromised.
10. The entire raceway system shall be grounded and bonded in
accordance with the NEC. A separate ground wire shall be
installed in all raceways such that the resistance to ground, and
therefore the fault current path, is not dependent on such
mechanical connections as couplings and fittings.
11. Concrete-encased duct banks shall be installed as shown on
Standard Drawing E-xx (to be published at a later date) where
more than 3 conduits are installed in one trench under a paved
surface.
Additionally, concrete-encasement should be
considered as an option by the Engineer for high-importance,
low-downtime raceway facilities where they might be easily
interrupted by construction or other normal operations, or where
minimum cover requirements cannot be met due to conflicts with
other utilities or sub-surface structures. Where duct banks are
installed, at least 50% spare conduits shall be provided, in
accordance with the other requirements of this manual.
12. The Engineer shall perform conduit fill calculations for each
raceway, ensuring that no conduits are overfilled as per the
requirements of the NEC. Actual cable diameters shall be used
in these calculations. Where there is a likelihood of future
additional wiring to be installed in any conduit, spare capacity
shall be maintained in the conduit. While not required for plan
review as part of the Phased Submissions, conduit fill
calculations shall be submitted for review if requested by the
Authoritys Engineering Department.
13. Ducts are to be provided at all Turnpike and Parkway structures
for the future installation of future communications cables unless
otherwise directed. The Engineer shall contact the Authoritys
Engineering Department for the current appropriate number and
location of the conduits. Underground conduits are also to be
provided from each abutment backwall to an appropriate location.
Typical treatments used can be seen on Exhibits 7 - 24 and 7 25. These treatments must be verified as current or modified
appropriately.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 64

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

EXHIBIT 7 - 24
INSTALLATION OF COMMUNICATIONS CONDUIT ON AUTHORITY BRIDGES

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 65

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

EXHIBIT 7 - 25
COMMUNICATIONS CONDUIT INSTALLATION DETAILS

14. To prevent vehicle impact, where conduits are provided running

under bridge structures and/or attached to stringers, no part of
the conduits or attachment method shall protrude under the
lowest point of any stringer.
15. Where raceways are installed for bridge-mounted applications,
no welding will be permitted to structural steel members. Where
possible, all conduits and raceways shall be mounted by clamped
MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 66

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

or other non-invasive installation. All drilling and modification to

existing and proposed steel or concrete structures necessary to
mount raceway systems shall be approved by a Structural
Engineer.
7.4.5

Temporary Power Distribution Systems

Where possible, new power distribution systems shall be designed to
minimize the need for temporary facilities during construction. However,
where temporary power distribution systems are required, either to facilitate
construction activities or to power roadway or other electrical equipment
during construction, the following requirements shall be taken into
consideration, in addition to the requirements listed above for permanent
installations:
1. Multi-conductor cable rated for 600V and suitable for direct burial use
shall be permitted for underground installations between temporary
lighting standard and wood pole locations. Wiring may be installed in
rigid metallic or non-metallic conduit, as appropriate when deemed
necessary due to the staging or methods of construction employed in the
vicinity of temporary underground wiring.
2. Overhead wiring installations, including self-supporting aerial messenger
cables, will be permitted for use with temporary roadway and area
lighting systems on a case-by-case basis with prior approval by the
Authoritys Engineering Department. The Engineer shall certify that said
overhead wiring system will not interfere with the contractors
construction operations, especially those requiring heavy equipment.
3. Temporary wiring systems provided on bridges or other structures shall
be installed in rigid metallic or non-metallic conduit, as appropriate and
properly supported or attached to the structure by means of approved
conduit support hangers, clamps and hardware. Self-supporting open
air wiring installations will not be permitted.
4. All wiring installed in conduits underground or on structures should be
maintainable and conduit systems shall incorporate a means of pulling
cable at maximum 250 ft. intervals. This may be accomplished by using
various devices which may include temporary junction boxes, handholes,
lighting standard transformer bases, conduit pulling fittings, or other reenterable equipment. Access to pulling points should be unrestricted.
5. All wiring splices shall be in junction boxes, handholes, etc. and shall be
made using wiring connector kits as shown on Electrical Standard
Drawings.
6. Temporary distribution circuitry shall be designed to maintain a maximum
voltage drop of 3% between line and neutral conductors. Existing
multiple-wire circuits should be utilized wherever possible, however, a
careful analysis shall be performed to determine the influence of

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 67

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

temporary facilities connected to existing circuitry. All multi-phase

circuits shall be properly balanced. In the event existing circuitry will not
support additional temporary loads, a temporary load center with
separate utility service may be utilized. An analysis of additional loading
on existing circuits, and the possible need for temporary load centers
shall be included in the Phase A Submittal package.

7.5

POWER DISTRIBUTION AND RACEWAY SYSTEMS EQUIPMENT AND

MATERIAL
7.5.1

Conduits, Cabinets, Wireways and Fittings

The Various types of conduits to be used shall be as specified in the
Standard Specifications, shown on the Standard Drawings and further
prescribed hereinafter.
1. In general, nonmetallic PVC Schedule 80 conduit shall be used for
installations under paved roadways, ramps, and parking areas. PVC
Schedule 40 conduit shall be used in all areas where vehicular traffic is
not expected.
2. Conduits on concrete, steel, or other exterior structures, and in any
environment that is not environmentally controlled shall be galvanized
rigid steel (RMC). All attachment hardware shall be stainless steel or
cast malleable iron. In order to minimize corrosion where conduits
transition from an underground distribution system to a structure that is
exposed to the air, a short section of PVC-coated galvanized rigid steel
conduit shall be installed from a location 3 feet above grade to at least 2
feet below grade. This PVC-coated RMC shall then be permitted to be
coupled to a PVC conduit to continue its run to the nearest underground
junction box or manhole. A continuous ground wire shall be provided in
all metal conduits.
3. Conduits on aluminum structures shall be fabricated of aluminum, and
shall be mounted using stainless steel hardware.
4. PVC-coated galvanized rigid steel conduit and hardware shall be used
on all structures that are exposed to corrosive areas, especially on
bridge structures over bodies of saltwater. PVC-coated conduit shall
also be used in all damp locations, and where conduits are cast in
concrete, for the portion of the conduit run that makes the transition from
the concrete to the open air. A detail shall be provided for all such
installations in the plans.
5. Fiberglass reinforced (FRE) conduits shall be permitted to be installed
under bridge structures and for cast-in-concrete installations. Adequate
supplemental grounding shall be provided in all installations.
6. Rigid metallic conduit shall not be used underground except as noted
above.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 68

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

7. PVC Schedule 40 or 80 shall not be used in any exposed installation,

and shall not be permitted to be exposed to sunlight.
8. Electrical metallic tubing (EMT) shall be used only in environmentallycontrolled, finished portions of buildings. EMT shall not be installed in
any areas that are damp or that may be exposed to water.
9. Flexible metallic conduit shall be installed in maximum six (6) foot
lengths where required to make complex bends, or where required to
allow for flexibility in movement. Expansion/compression fittings shall be
used instead of flexible conduit wherever the degree of expansion is
within the allowable tolerances of these fittings.
10. Flexible metallic conduit shall not be used where rigid metallic conduit
can be installed.
11. All conduits for roadway lighting distribution circuits, unless otherwise
indicated on the Standard Drawings and/or prescribed herein, shall be
three-inch (3) size. Two-inch (2) conduit may be used for lighting
standards at the end of a circuit where no future expansion is anticipated
and approved by the Authoritys Engineering Department. Duct banks at
toll plazas or other Authority facilities for installation of multiple power
and communication cables shall be minimum four-inch (4) size.
12. Cable duct will not be permitted for use in any Roadway Electrical
installations. Certain typical details regarding conduit installations are
included in the Standard Drawings, and shall be utilized wherever
possible on each project.
13. Fittings used shall be of the same material as the conduit they are
attached to.
14. Wireways and cabinets shall be constructed of stainless steel, and
provided with a NEMA 3R or 4X rating. Details of mounting shall be
included that show mounting without compromising the water-tightness
of the wireway. Where it is likely that water could collect in the wireway
or enclosure, a drain hole shall be provided in a location that will not
allow water entry.
15. Conduit shall not be shown entering the top of any cabinet or wireway.
See Subsection 7.4.4.2.
16. Unless otherwise approved, minimum size of conduit underground shall
be 2 and minimum size of all other conduits shall conform to the
Standard Specifications.
17. Compression fittings shall not be allowed, except in buildings for EMT
installations, where permitted as described above.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 69

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

18. Conduits shall be shown running either parallel or perpendicular to key

structural elements, and shall be installed with at least 1 clear between
the conduit and structure to allow for drainage and to prevent debris
accumulation.
19. Conduits for underbridge and other structure lighting systems shall be
surface mounted unless shown otherwise in the Standard Details or
Specifications.
20. All cabinets and equipment mounted on sign structure pedestals, bridge
abutments, or in other installations near active roadway shall be
mounted to prevent snow accumulation during and allow access during
plowing operations. In most cases, this requirement can be met by
placing all equipment on the backside or downstream side of the
structure.
7.5.2

Cables and Wires

1. All multiple lighting, power, series lighting, and primary and secondary
cables, including neutrals, shall be single conductor, stranded copper,
and shall be of the voltage ratings, types and with continuous factoryapplied color-coding as specified in the Standard Specifications.
2. Ground wire to be used in conjunction with roadway electrical and
associated circuits shall be bare, stranded and tinned/coated copper, as
specified in the Standard Specifications and/or Standard Drawings.
Ground wire to be used in circuits within building and between panels
shall be insulated and continuously colored green.
3. All splices, including in-line connections, for roadway lighting cables shall
be made by means of fused or non-fused cable connector kits as shown
and specified in Standard Electrical Drawings.
4. Cables and wiring required for Communications Systems, where not
included in the Standard Specifications or Standard Drawings, shall be
indicated on the plans. All cables to be utilized in outdoor installations,
whether above or underground, shall be rated to be chemical-proof, oilproof, UV-resistant, and capable of being continuously submersed in
water.
5. Cables to be installed in confined spaces or roadway tunnels shall be
low-smoke zero-halogen type.
6. SOW or SOOW type multi-conductor cable shall be installed for all
navigation lighting installed on piers instead of fixed conduit system.
7. Installations requiring high degree of cable flexibility, including cables
that are required to move for equipment operation, shall utilize cables
specifically designed for that purpose.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 70

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

8. A complete specification for all non-standard cables, including relevant

industry testing standards and material certifications, shall be clearly
indicated on the Plans for ease of future replacement.
The
Supplementary Specification shall be utilized only for additional /
supplemental material and payment information.
9. A requirement shall be added to all contract drawings stating that a nylon
pull cord shall be installed with all wiring and in all empty conduits to
facilitate the future installation of additional wiring.
7.5.3

Standalone Load Centers

The load center installation shall consist of the roadway lighting panelboard,
remote control switch, contactors, relays, photoelectric bypass switch,
control switches, etc.
All this equipment shall be furnished without
enclosures and installed in a free-standing cabinet according to the details
on the Standard Drawings (to be issued at a later date). The bottom of the
cabinet shall be used as the wiring section.
Standalone load centers for standard voltages and loads shall be installed in
accordance with the Standard Drawings (to be published at a later date).
The larger Type F three-phase load center shall be used for 1) large-scale
277/480 Volt lighting distribution systems on the Turnpike, 2) on the
Parkway where lighting load exceeds 30 kW, or 3) other project
considerations require additional power or equipment space. The smaller
Type G single-phase load center shall be used for smaller 120/240 Volt and
240/280 Volt single-phase, and 120/208 Volt three-phase installations on
the Parkway where total continuous load served does not exceed 30 kW.

7.6

DESIGN SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

The format for plan submission for roadway lighting shall conform to applicable
requirements of Section 3 (Submission Requirements) of the Procedures Manual,
and as described in Subsection 7.7.
Following is a description of the requirements for the various plan submissions for
Roadway Lighting and Power Distribution Systems.
7.6.1

Phase A Conceptual Design Submission

The intent of the Phase A Submission is to create a set of documents that
indicates the Engineers Design Approach. Review of these documents by
the Authoritys Engineering Department will verify that the Engineer is
proceeding with design in a manner that is consistent with other Authority
projects, and shall be completed prior to the advancement of the final design
and plan preparation.
The Phase A conceptual lighting submission shall contain the following:

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 71

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

1. Conceptual Illumination Design Plans (in 1 = 30 scale) shall be included

to review the Engineers intent for system design. The following
information shall be shown, where applicable:
a. Proposed roadway alignment, including striping, which is necessary
to develop proper Design Areas
b. Existing and proposed load center(s)
c. All existing lighting equipment, properly labeled in accordance with
Subsection 7.7.1.3
d. Jurisdictional limits of Authority maintenance, and required area of
illumination (Design Areas) shown hatched or shaded
e. Design Areas for any additional lighting systems present in the
project, especially those that may require coordination with the
Authority-owned lighting system(s)
f. Design Criteria for each Design Area, including minimum and
maximum value for Average Illuminance, maximum Uniformity ratio,
and Light Loss Factor to be used in the calculations.
g. Right of Way boundaries
h. Signalized traffic intersections
i. Location of all proposed sign structures, and whether or not they
require sign lighting
j. Location of all ITS and other roadway devices that require power,
such as VMS signs, weather stations, etc.
k. Other information which the Engineer feels is relevant for a proper
review of design intent
l. Specific locations of proposed lighting equipment shall not be shown
2. A preliminary lighting key plan, prepared on 1" = 100' maximum scale
screened highway plans. The Preliminary Lighting Key Plan shall show
all the same information as the Conceptual Illumination Design Plans,
but at a smaller scale that allows for review of the design intent for the
entire lighting system at a glance. The following additional information
shall be shown.
a. Preliminary routing of proposed circuit runs, properly labeled in
accordance with Subsection 7.7.1.3, for the entire Project
3. A Phase A Report including the following:
a. Overall relevant information to acclimate a reviewer to the project
b. A list of all applicable codes, regulations, and design guides
c. Completed Lighting Warrant Analysis, as described in Subsection
7.2.1
d. Discussion and selection of the type of Roadway Lighting System
(Pole-Top cutoff, Conventional, Highmast, etc.) to be used for the
design, including cost benefit analysis (see Subsection 7.2.4.2), and
all applicable design criteria.
e. Discussion of the need for Retrofit type lighting standards, if
applicable to the project

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 72

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

f.

Discussion of design intent for all electrical and communications

systems necessary for equipment located within the project limits
g. Discussion of the additional lighting systems required in the Project
and applicable design criteria
h. Results of the field-visit condition assessment of all existing
equipment to remain and recommendations for replacement based
on condition
i. Cost benefit analysis of locations of new utility services and
standalone load centers
j. Analysis and need for temporary load centers for construction
4. All requests for modification of Design Criteria. See Subsection 7.1.3.
5. A complete list of the relevant As-Built contracts, detailing the
construction history of the existing lighting system installation.
The Phase A Submission shall be approved by the Authoritys Engineering
Department prior to the preparation of lighting calculations or final plan
documents.
7.6.2

Phase B Submission
The Phase B submission shall be presented in final plan format, and is
intended to provide plans that show locations of lighting, electrical, and ITS
devices only, along with the companion initial lighting calculations. Power
and communications distribution systems shall not be designed or
included until lighting calculations, and locations of end devices, have
been reviewed and approved.
The Phase B Submission, at a minimum, must include the following:
1. A copy of all Design Criteria modifications that have been approved by
the Authoritys Engineering Department.
2. Conceptual Illumination Design Plans, as described in the Phase A
Submission Requirements, updated to address all review comments.
3. Lighting Plans, in final plan format, and Lighting Key Plan showing the
following:
a. Proposed roadway alignment, including striping
b. Existing and proposed load center(s)
c. All existing lighting equipment, properly labeled in accordance with
Subsection 7.7.1.3 as based on As-Built plans and field verification
d. All lighting standards, highmast or floodlighting towers properly
plotted by stationing and fully identified by Authority standard
symbols and callouts in accordance with Subsection 7.7
e. Underbridge luminaires, where required, with symbols shown in
accordance with Subsection 7.7
f. Navigation/aviation lighting luminaires, where required

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 73

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

g. All overhead sign structures, coordinated with lighting facilities, and

bridge-mounted signs
h. Location of all ITS and other electrical devices, identified by Authority
standard symbols, coordinated with lighting and structural facilities
i. Locations of new/modified electrical and communications services,
along with connections to utilities
4. Preliminary Schedule of Light Standards
5. Electrical/Communications plans for non-lighting systems, in final plan
format, showing installation of end devices only. Power circuitry and
communications distribution do not need to be shown.
6. Full-size color prints in 1 = 30 scale showing Preliminary Lighting
Calculations for all lighting systems, including underbridge, sign and
tunnel lighting systems. Lighting calculations shall show alignment,
striping, proposed light locations, existing light locations that will remain,
calculation zones, and appropriate light value statistics. Light levels shall
be legible for each point.
7. Preliminary Lighting Calculations Two (2) CDs of the electronic
calculation file(s), including all relevant photometric files and other
supporting information, which may be read by the two most recent
versions of the Windows operating system.
8. Phase B Report consisting of a status update and summary of major
design points and a discussion of the alternatives analyzed and design
chosen. Changes from the Phase A Submission shall be clearly
indicated with engineering analysis and discussion. The report shall also
discuss coordination efforts with all utility companies regarding
new/modified services and location of electrical and communication
facilities.
9. Any nonstandard CADD symbols to be used for the project legend, in
order to allow coordination and use of the same symbol throughout
projects.
7.6.3

Pre-Phase C Submission
The Pre-Phase C submission shall be submitted at least 4 weeks prior to
the Phase C Submission deadline to allow appropriate time to review and
include all necessary changes in the Phase C Submission.
The Pre-Phase C submission, as a minimum, must include the following:
1. Completed Sheet of General Notes, Legends, and Abbreviations
2. Completed Lighting Plans, in final plan format, and Completed Lighting
Key Plan showing all information required for the Phase B submission,
with the addition of the following information:

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 74

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

a. Complete roadway lighting layout and circuitry

b. Load center(s), electric service locations, sign feeders, etc.
3. Electrical/Communications Plans showing complete installations,
including all devices, equipment, and power and communications
distribution systems.
4. Temporary Lighting Plans showing lighting work required in order to
maintain illumination on all active roadways throughout the duration of
the project.
5. Staging Plans that show the sequence of construction. If separate
staging plans are not required, staging notes shall be included
elsewhere in the Plans.
6. Miscellaneous construction details, which are not covered by Standard
Drawings. It should be noted that submission of such details at the PrePhase C stage may reduce the possibility of time-consuming
corrections in the Phase C submission.
7. A list of required Standard Drawings to be used on the project.
8. Any reference plans to be included in the project.
9. Final Schedule of Light Standards and all applicable Wiring Diagrams.
10. Full-size color prints in 1 = 30 scale showing Final Lighting
Calculations for all lighting systems, including underbridge, sign, and
tunnel lighting systems. Lighting calculations shall show alignment,
striping, proposed light locations, existing light locations that will remain,
calculation zones, and appropriate light value statistics. Light levels shall
be legible for each point.
11. Final Lighting Calculations Two (2) CDs of the electronic calculation
file(s), including all relevant photometric files and other supporting
information, which may be read by the two most recent versions of the
Windows operating system.
12. Load and circuitry voltage drop computations, in standard Authority
format.
13. Preliminary construction cost estimate.
14. Pre-Phase C Report consisting of a summary of major design points
focusing on any changes from the Phase B submission.
The Pre-Phase C Submission shall address all comments made during the
review of the Phase B submission.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 75

NJTA Design Manual

7.6.4

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

Phase C Submission
The Phase C submission shall be essentially complete, including all items
listed above for the Pre-Phase C Submission in addition to the
Supplemental Specifications and an Engineers Estimate.
With this
submission, all final design and quantity computations shall also be
submitted. Copies of approved service requests and agreements with all
utility companies shall be submitted for record purposes.
The Phase C Submission shall address all comments made in review of
the Pre-Phase C Submission.
Submission of calculations shall generally not be required. However, if
changes are made to the calculations submitted for the Pre-Phase C
Submission, the Engineer shall resubmit a record set of calculations that
matches the Phase C Submission.

7.6.5

Phase D Submission
The Phase D submission shall include the final Plans, Specifications and
Engineer's Estimate, all incorporated with the Phase C review comments.

7.7

PREPARATION OF CONTRACT DOCUMENTS

7.7.1

Plans
7.7.1.1 Required Plans
1. Plan preparation for either separate roadway lighting contracts or
composite construction contracts containing roadway lighting
shall conform to applicable requirements of Section 6A (Roadway
Plan Preparation) of the Procedures Manual.
2. Contract plans shall generally consist of the following sheets,
consecutively numbered:
a. Title Sheet: This sheet is required for separate roadway
lighting contracts, not for composite contracts.
b. Legend, Notations and General Notes (may be more than one
sheet): Legend and notations shall be prepared from the
information provided as shown in Subsection 7.7.1.3 covering
all installations under the Contract.
c. Table of Quantities: A separate sheet is not required for
composite contracts, and this sheet may be combined in the
Legend, Notations and General Notes sheet for small
standalone roadway lighting contracts.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 76

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

d. Plan Reference Sheets: This sheet shall also include load

center location(s) and all major structures. Plan Reference
Sheets may be combined with Lighting Key Plan.
e. Lighting Plans: Base plans shall be screened (subdued or
gray) 1" = 30' scale Roadway plans (complete with bridge
structures, guardrail and drainage) to serve as background for
roadway lighting work. Numbering of roadway/site lighting
plans shall coincide with numbering of the Roadway plans
(i.e. the same areas of the project shall be shown on
Roadway Lighting Plan 4 and Roadway Plan 4). Sheets with
no roadway lighting work shall be included, and noted as No
Work This Sheet. In the case where there are multiple
consecutive sheets with no electrical or lighting work, a note
may be added to the adjacent sheets and the sheets with no
work omitted. For example: Plans 5 through 10 require no
roadway lighting work and have been omitted for clarity.
To allow for distinction between geometry and proposed
electrical and communications equipment, all roadway lighting
plans shall show new roadway lighting installation in thick,
bold line, existing roadway lighting equipment to remain or to
be removed in a thin, solid line, and all roadway geometry,
striping, utility, drainage, and other topographical information
in screened linework. Any existing topographical information
which shows the features to be removed (i.e. not included in
the final configuration) shall be omitted from the plans unless
specifically required for a temporary or staging plans. New,
existing, and reference information shall be able to be
determined at a glance using this approach.
Lighting Plans for roadway projects shall be titled Roadway
Lighting Plans, and lighting plans for other projects shall be
titled Site Lighting Plans.
All lighting facilities shall be properly plotted by stationing and
fully identified by appropriate legend and notations.
Luminaire station, offset, and tilt values shall be clearly noted.
Notes shall be included on each sheet for cross-referencing
and prescribing certain special installations, as required.
All existing facilities shall be shown on the Lighting Plans
using the correct symbols (see Subsection 7.7.1.3). If
required due to amount of work and for clarity of the proposed
system, separate Removal Plans shall be permitted with prior
approval from the Authoritys Engineering Department.
f.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

Lighting Key Plan(s): Plan(s) showing overall final view of

installation, including all existing lighting connected to the final
system. Plans shall be prepared to same standards as
7 - 77

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

Lighting Plans, only at larger scale (1 = 100 scale

maximum). Lighting standard designations and circuit routing
and designations, including all 24-hour power circuits, shall be
clearly shown. Locations of all equipment, including load
centers, sign structures, ITS devices, and other powered
devices, shall be shown.
g. Electrical / Communications Plans (if required): Plans shall
show all required information to install all non-lighting devices
in the project. Plans shall include a scaled geometry, all
relevant topographical information, and shall generally be
prepared in accordance with the criteria for Lighting Plans.
Typical
equipment
which
may
require
Electrical/
Communication Plans are variable/changeable message
signs, ITS devices, refer to Section 8 (ITS and
Communication Systems) of this Manual for additional criteria,
cameras, etc. Plans shall be required only if the areas of
work are not coincident with the areas covered by the Lighting
Plans.
h. Staging Plans / Sequence of Construction (if required):
These sheets shall also include the temporary lighting
facilities and required revisions and/or removal of existing
roadway lighting facilities. Plan preparation shall be as
described for Lighting Plans, above.
i.

General Construction Details: These sheets shall include all

required construction details which are not covered in the
Standard Drawings. With the exception of one-line, wiring,
and riser diagrams, all details shall be drawn to scale on
accurate baseplans. Drawings of installations that rely on
accurate dimensioning will be rejected and resubmission
required if submitted in a not-to-scale format.

j.

Roadway Lighting Load Center(s) and Wiring Diagrams(s).

These sheets shall clearly identify the associated work by
others and all existing equipment and/or wiring being reused
or removed in conjunction with the proposed work.

k. Schedule of Lighting Standards and Luminaires: These

sheets shall include a schedule for each circuit showing all
proposed, existing and removed lighting facilities with final
loads and phase balancing. The format of the Schedule shall
be as shown below in Exhibit 7-26, which has been filled in
for a typical new three-phase circuit. See the Sample Plans
for more information.
Where single-phase circuits are used, the Phase A, Phase
B and Phase C columns shall be replaced with columns
that read Leg A and Leg B to show proper balancing of the
MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 78

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

circuit. The format as shown below may also be modified to

accommodate special circumstances and projects, but
should, at a minimum, include all of the information shown on
the sample.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 79

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

EXHIBIT 7 - 26
SCHEDULE OF LIGHTING STANDARDS AND LUMINAIRES

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 80

NJTA Design Manual

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

l.

Standard Drawings:
standard drawings.

All required electrical and associated

m. Reference Drawings: As-Built drawings related to existing

roadway lighting and associated facilities. Each Reference
Drawing must be referred to by specific note in the
construction plans.
7.7.1.2 Additional Plan Requirements
1. Manufacturer model numbers, where included in the Plans, shall
be included only once to prevent errors and inconsistencies.
2. All luminaire tilt and orientation angles other than zero (0)
degrees shall be clearly shown on the Lighting Plans and Details.
3. Luminaires shall be numbered such that each circuit starts at
luminaire number 1. Continuous numbering for each load center
and interchange shall not be utilized.
4. Existing Authority-owned equipment (lights, conduits, wires, etc.)
shall be shown on all plans using proper symbols and callouts for
all areas where a Contractor could disturb as a result of
construction activities, or where the Contractor is required to
maintain the facilities for the duration of the Contract. It shall not
be sufficient to include only notes where a Contractor is required
to maintain existing facilities that are not clearly indicated on the
Plans.
7.7.1.3 Standard Legends and Symbols
The Engineer shall develop a contract-specific legend for use on
each project by selecting standard Authority symbols from the
Standard Electrical Legends available on the Authoritys website.
Any additional symbolism and/or notations required for special cases
shall be reviewed by the Authoritys Engineering Department before
being included by the Engineer to ensure consistency between the
various construction contracts.
Topographical mapping typically is created using a single symbol for
all lighting poles. The Engineer shall field-verify all installations and
modify the lighting and electrical symbols shown for all Plans
(including those of other design disciplines and all topographical
files) using the Authoritys standard symbols for existing electrical
and lighting equipment. This process shall both reduce confusion
during construction, and shall serve to ensure that all existing lighting
systems are shown correctly on the Plans.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 81

NJTA Design Manual

7.7.2

Lighting and Power Distribution Systems

Specifications
Construction of roadway lighting systems and associated electrical facilities
shall conform to the following:
1. Standard Specifications.
a. Section 601 - Common Provisions
b. Section 602 - Roadway Lighting
c. Section 603 - Sign Lighting
d. Section 604 - Toll Plaza Canopy
2. Supplementary Specifications.
Specifications for additional items which are not covered in the Standard
Specifications to be prepared by the Engineer shall be as follows:
a. Specifications shall follow the format set forth in the Standard
Specifications, and shall be brief and precise.
b. Equipment and materials shall be specified to conform to Federal
Specifications, ASTM, NEMA, ANSI, ICEA, etc., or to be equal to a
particular brand product.
c. When brand names are used, a brief description of the equipment or
material, including type, model, catalog number, etc. shall be
specified. For major items, more than one brand name should be
specified as acceptable, unless otherwise directed by the Authority.
d. Lump sum items shall be kept to a minimum in order to facilitate a
more accurate estimate of cost, and to more easily negotiate field
changes.

MAY 2007
Revised November 2011

7 - 82