Institute for Transportation

About the research

Pavement marking is an essential component of roadway construction and safety. The markings need to be visible (day and night) so that drivers can quickly identify where the markings are and determine what message is being defined. Good pavement marking provides critical elements to guide drivers on correct road paths, complement road signs that inform and warn drivers, and improve night driving conditions.

This project’s objective was to review existing pavement marking practices by local agencies in Minnesota (material selection, installation, specifications, and contracting procedures) to provide guidance for maintaining good pavement markings, thereby saving money and increasing road safety. The two specific objectives were as follows:

1. Review existing pavement marking practices in local agencies.
2. Develop recommendations for better management of pavement marking through the use of pavement marking management tools and coordination with the Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT).