The purpose of the Work Area Traffic Control Handbook (WATCH) is to provide a user-friendly, pocket-sized book that covers some policy, standards, design elements, and guidelines for the planning and setting up of temporary traffic control zones. It is to be used by the entity intending to perform or is performing construction or maintenance work within the rights-of-way of the roadway system in the City of Charlotte. 

The WATCH includes diagrams that depict common applications of Temporary Traffic Control (TTC) devices. Following the fundamental principles of this WATCH and Part 6 of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) will ensure better accessibility for road users and worker safety in the vicinity of TTC zones.

Traffic Control Devices are used to direct and assist motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians in safely navigating any facility open to public travel.  Guide and information signs are solely for the purpose of traffic control and are not an advertising medium.