Signs and Striping Will Improve Safety at New Passing Lanes

MoDOT recently developed a plan for new signs and pavement markings for locations where we are installing a new roadway configuration known as an alternate four-lane.

Although the first alternate four-lane was installed more than a year ago, it wasn’t until recently that MoDOT developed specific striping and signing that will now alert motorists when they are entering this type of lane configuration.

During summer 2006, a team came up with a plan to alert motorists that they are about to enter an alternating passing lane configuration by using a combination of signs and roadway markings. Striping and signs were then finally installed along the District 7 project last fall.

The team recommended a 12-inch painted median lined with a 4-inch edgeline to emphasize the opposing traffic directions. Several signs alert motorists of the upcoming configuration, mark the beginning and length of each individual passing lane and alert motorists when the passing lane is ending on both the right and left sides of the roadway. Centerline and edgeline rumble stripes are an additional safety feature to warn motorists when they are leaving the travel lane.

 “These lanes with the new signs and striping will really improve safety and save motorists time at a minimal cost on roadways throughout Missouri,” Rackers said.

The standard procedures regarding signs and striping established in the installation of the District 7 project will be followed on future projects, such as those planned in districts 5 and 9.