I would like to know if anyone can refer me to a online site or course where I could aquire a certification to be able to prepare Traffic control plans, such as for excavation permits in city right of way?
From http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Road_traffic_control: "The transportation system in the United States is complex and extensive. Traffic volumes, types of vehicles, driving styles, population density, speed limits, and many other factors vary dramatically from one region to the next. As a result, highway traffic control measures (including type of equipment and implementation), are not strictly consistent. Federal Guidelines do not address certification methods for traffic controllers, flaggers, or other personnel responsible for traffic control. This responsibility is managed on a state or local agency level, and therefore certification requirements are not consistent and are administered locally. Safety standards (irrespective of traffic control) are mandated by OSHA as well as state-level occupational safety departments."
If in USA, get yourself the local rulebook, and read up.