CASE STUDY NATIONAL

Caltrans (California DOT) is in the process of restriping over 50 thousand miles of state highways within the next 10 years. They have decided that to widen the traffic lines from 4 inches to 6 inched with a paint that is brighter and longer lasting than before. It was first done in Sacramento in 2017 along I-80. The paint was used as an experiment to see if it would last under the wear and tear of heavy traffic and test it’s durability. After seeing the success, it is now being made into a state-wide movement.

The paint is made using glass beads so as light rays enter, they are reflected to the drivers to see the lines better on the road. This allows for enhanced reflectivity when light from headlights hits it and when in rainy weather conditions.

Caltrans is using this as a potential cost-effective measure and to enhance safety by having wider traffic strips. They also are adopting a policy that requires a specific amount of reflectivity to ensure better site during inclement weather conditions and evening hours to increase visibility. This will hopefully enhance safety for older drivers and truck drivers too.