Solar street markers win positive feedback

Initial reviews are positive for an Idaho Transportation Department experiment in Pocatello.

ITD is using solar-powered pavement markings along short stretches of U.S. 30/Garret Way. They are intended to increase the visibility of raised curb islands for drivers. The markers store up solar energy during daylight hours then use that to power LED lights in the markers at night.

The first set of markers was installed between Gould Street, milepost 335.4, to Pole Line Road, milepost 334.8, on February 8. The next section will be between Pole Line and Cedar Street.

The department purchased 600 of the units and sent 100 to each district office. The southeast office in Pocatello was the first to install them.

“This location was decided upon as a safety improvement due to lack of streetlights in this area and to help denote where there is curbing. The markers are lit and reflective, making them a good channelizing device in the dark,” ITD southeast Idaho Operations Manager Steve Gertonson explained.

So far, ITD southeast Idaho Maintenance Foreman David Petersdorf says he’s received numerous calls from the public saying they like the new markers.