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ITD experiments with solar-powered pavement markings in Pocatello

There has been an unusual amount of sunshine this winter, especially compared to the 2016/17 winter, and that has allowed ITD to experiment with a few alternatives. The most recent options are solar-powered pavement markings along short stretches of US-30/Garret Way in Pocatello, used to help delineate raised curb islands for drivers.

The first set of installations was along US-30 from Gould Street (milepost 335.4) to Pole Line Road (milepost 334.8) on Feb. 8. The next section to be outfitted with the special markers will be Pole Line to Cedar Street (milepost 334.3). The solar markers were placed on the curbing of a raised island.

This location was decided upon due to lack of streetlights in this area and to help denote where the curbing is. The markers are lit, and reflective, making them a good channelizing device in the dark.

All districts were supplied markers by an Idaho company. If the markings work well, and ITD decides to purchase more of them, the return on investment will be a significant factor. ITD purchased 600 units and distributed 100 to each district. District 5 was the first to have them installed. The other districts have already identified where they'll use them.

ITD District 5 TT Pr. David Petersdorf said he’s already received 8-10 calls from the public saying they like the new markers.