County launches annual line-painting season

Photo by Yash Patel Provided through Unsplash

By Cecilia Nasmith

Northumberland County and local municipalities are preparing for the annual line-painting season as part of their road-maintenance program.

Starting this week, crews will be working throughout the county refreshing pavement markings that play a critical role in guiding traffic, improving visibility and enhancing safety for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.

The county maintains almost 500 km. of roadway, and their markings require regular renewal to remain visible and effective in providing clear line delineation, traffic guidance and safe navigation.

This work is highly specialized, requiring crews to travel at reduced speeds to ensure accurate application and allow sufficient time for the paint to drive properly.

Director of Public Works Denise Marshall extended the county's appreciation for motorists' co-operation in accommodating this work.

“By slowing down, maintaining a safe following distance and respecting work zones, drivers help protect both road workers and fellow road users,” Marshall said in the announcement.

Motorists are reminded to slow down and maintain a safe following distance from maintenance vehicles. Attempting to pass these crews can create safety risks and result in paint splashing onto vehicles. As well, these freshly applied markings contain reflective glass beads that improve visibility at night, so driving over wet paint can damage these markings and reduce their effectiveness.

The county urges drivers to follow all traffic-control signs, devices and instructions from road crews – and to stay alert and be prepared for temporary delays in active work areas.