Pavement markings are the silent traffic communicator that help direct commuters along their routes. They also help create a safe experience for drivers and pedestrians by improving visibility.

Over the last few weeks, the Southlake Mobility Team has been working diligently to remove and update pavement markings around Southlake.  So far, striping has taken place in school zones, at several intersections, in the White Chapel and Highland roundabout, and along both Brumlow Avenue and S. Kimball Avenue.

Although pavement marking projects are smaller-scale when compared to the N. White Chapel widening and Zena Rucker Road extension, they contribute to mobility daily and keeping them in good condition is a community effort.

Requests usually come from residents, business owners or City staff. The team also keeps an inventory of school zones for any safety issues, including pavement marking visibility. The information is documented in a spreadsheet that is maintained by the Traffic Management Division.  As the end of the school year approaches, the list is then checked for any upcoming paving or development projects to make sure that markings are not prematurely applied to the roadway.

Criteria for pavement marking replacement generally depends on the traffic volume and the types of vehicles that travel on the roadway because construction vehicles and heavy trucks can cause more wear.  It also depends on the type of paint that was used on the pavement. Regular paint lasts one to two years, but thermoplastic is estimated to last between three to five years before any signs of deterioration.

Once an area is confirmed as a candidate for restriping, the process is quite simple. For instance, if an intersection has faded marking, the marking can be removed by grinding or sandblasting and then vacuumed away. Once all the debris is cleared, new markings are applied. The process usually takes anywhere from a few hours to one or two business days.

As of now, all striping projects have been completed for this fiscal year. The replacement process will start back up next spring. To make a request for pavement markings for next year, you can visit the Connect Southlake page and hit the Contact link. A mobility team member will reach out to you within 24-48 hours.

To learn more about Southlake Mobility, please follow us on the Southlake Mobility Facebook Page.