The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) is rolling out new mobile retroreflective technology to enhance safety, reduce costs and improve the visibility of lane markings along Interstate 15.
The technology, mounted to moving vehicles, allows UDOT to evaluate lane visibility without setting up traditional work zones. Instead of crews standing in live traffic using handheld retroreflectometers, mobile units now collect data while driving behind a water-splashing vehicle, simulating wet-road conditions.
“This approach lets us do our jobs safely and get the data we need without putting anyone in harm’s way,” said Abdul Wakil, UDOT maintenance asset engineer, in a statement. “We’re improving travel now while investing in better experiences in the future.”
UDOT crews are currently collecting data in five testing zones between South Salt Lake and Draper. The data is helping guide installation of wet-reflective tape, which enhances visibility in rain, and is shared with product partners to improve materials used statewide.
Retroreflectivity is achieved by embedding glass beads or microprisms in lane striping, which bounce light directly back to drivers. UDOT has tested materials for five years, but the new mobile retroreflectometer units (MRUs) improve speed and safety while eliminating the need for Utah Highway Patrol or incident response buffers.
The shift supports Gov. Spencer Cox’s call for better lane visibility and helps UDOT track pavement marking performance in all conditions.
“This is a big step toward safer, more efficient roads for everyone,” Wakil said.
Source: The Utah Department of Transportation, Hoodline.com
