Colored Pavement

Image Source: Google Earth, Lexington, KY

DEFINITION AND DESCRIPTION

Colored pavement is typically used along a corridor or as a spot treatment to clearly mark areas of conflict. Different colors have different uses:

• Yellow pavement enhances the visibility of areas separating opposing directions of travel.
• White pavement enhances the visibility of areas separating traffic traveling in the same direction of travel.
• Green pavement may be used for bicycle facilities.
• Red pavement enhances the visibility of transit locations.

Colored pavement can increase the visibility of bicycle and transit facilities and their users.

Implementation Categories

CONSIDERATIONS

• When bicycle lanes lack separation from vehicle lanes, green pavement may draw attention to their presence.
• Maintain pavement friction properties when using different colors.
• May be used in conjunction with other pavement markings (e.g., bike symbols, arrows), except shared-lane markings.
• May be used on resurfacing projects.
• Color can be overlaid on the existing pavement (e.g., thermoplastic, paint) or mixed into pavement.
• Confirm equipment/material compatibility for stripers and/or pavers
• Maintenance may be addressed through agreements with local agencies.

APPLICATION

• Green pavement may be used on designated bike routes and roadways with higher levels of bicycle activity.
  • Can be used along the length of the facility or in conflict areas where drivers cross a bicycle lane. See Figure 3H-4 of the MUTCD, 11^th
• Apply according to Chapter 3H and Chapter 9 of the MUTCD.

example

Image Source: MUTCD 11^th Edition

Complimentary Countermeasures

• Roadway Reconfiguration
• Buffered Bike Lanes
• Protected Intersections