R.I. DOT begins safety measure on highways

PROVIDENCE – The R.I. Department of Transportation said last month that it has begun installation of a series of safety reflective markers aimed at making nighttime driving easier and safer.
The markers – known as roadside delineators – will be installed mostly along highways. RoadSafe Traffic Systems Inc. of Avon, Mass. was awarded a $1.5 million contract for the work.
Along straightaway sections of highways, the markers will be placed on both sides of the road to complement pavement markings and better define the edges of the roadway. Along curves and exits, their spacing will be tighter, providing another visual cue of a change in road direction.
Some of these markers will be mounted on small posts and others will be mounted on top of existing concrete barriers. The work is expected to conclude in late fall 2011.
The new markers also aim to improve visibility during adverse weather.
Highway segments in the contract include: Interstate 95 from exit 8 through Massachusetts, Interstate 195, Interstate 295, Route 4, Route 6, Route 10, Route 24, Route 37, Route 78, Route 99, Route 114, Route 138, Route 146, Route 403, the Henderson Bridge in Providence and East Providence and the Airport Connector in Warwick.
“These improvements will go a long way toward improving visibility and safety for drivers,” DOT Director Michael P. Lewis said in the release. “Once they are installed, the light cast from each vehicle’s headlamps will light up these reflectors and provide a clearer guide to the road ahead.” &#8226