Unique pavement markings effectively slow motorists

Caltrans officials say pavement markings are effectively slowing motorists in San Diego County work zones.

Since late 2021, motorists traveling San Diego County’s Highway Interstate 5 have experienced orange and white pavement markings as they travel through a roadway improvement project that’s prone to heavy traffic and backups.

Transportation officials said the new orange and white pavement markings are designed to “increase awareness of the construction zone” and “enhance safety for drivers and road crews.”

Caltrans officials said data shows “approximately 83.18% of (motorists) who traveled in the orange striping experienced increased awareness of being in a construction zone.” The survey also said 72% of drivers slowed down after seeing the contrast striping and nearly 75% found the lines easier to see at night.

Transportation officials believe in the future, the use of orange and white stripes will expand beyond the San Diego project.

“Our goal is to implement this as a standard practice throughout the state,” said Steve Welborn, a Caltrans public affairs manager.

See KTLA’s story here.