New Marking System Means Safer Roadways for Motorists

JEFFERSON CITY - Missouri highways will soon be sporting a new look, with brighter, longer-lasting pavement markings that will make driving easier and roads safer.

On Aug. 1, the Missouri Department of Transportation will begin using a state-of-the-art pavement marking system on any new pavement that is more visible during all conditions, especially at night and in the rain.

"We've studied highways around the country and worked with the nation's leading companies to develop the best products for Missouri," says System Management Director Don Hillis. "A combination of wider stripes, a very reflective tape, rumblestripes, more durable paint and improved signs will give the driver the best visibility possible and be cost effective."

Rumblestripes are a grooved pattern in the pavement painted with durable, highly reflective paint. The grooves cause a vehicle to vibrate when it leaves the driving lane. Wider centerline stripes, six inches wide instead of four, made from durable tape instead of paint, will last eight years instead of requiring an annual repainting. The tape also has a raised pattern for a high level of reflectivity making it more visible to drivers.

MoDOT's pavement-marking system includes a plan for both major and minor roadways. With projects funded under Amendment 3's- Smooth Roads Initiative, the new markings will be applied to 2,200 miles of new pavement by the end of 2007.

"The pavement marking industry is constantly evolving and MoDOT will keep abreast of these changes by continuing to test new materials and processes," Hillis says. "We want to continue to provide the safest possible roadways for Missouri motorists."