Released on June 4, 2009
An estimated 1.3 million litres of paint - or enough to fill more than half of an olympic-sized swimming pool - will be used on provincial highway centre and shoulder lines during the 2009 construction season, as workers continue building and maintaining Saskatchewan's transportation infrastructure this summer.
"Generally, I don't think it is common knowledge to Saskatchewan drivers how much paint is actually used just for lines on our highways, which are vital and important safety features for motorists," Highways and Infrastructure Minister Jim Reiter said. "Glass beads - made in part from recycled glass - are applied at the same time as the paint for the highway lines. The glass improves the visibility of the lines at night for motorists and is no danger to vehicle tires."
An estimated 725,000 kilograms of glass beads will be used this construction season from a Saskatchewan company.
"I also want to remind motorists to plan the safest and most efficient routes before travelling and to keep Orange Zone safety in mind," Reiter said. "Remember, drivers who exceed 60 km/h when passing a highway worker face a base fine of $140."
New work includes about 11 kilometres (km) of micro-surfacing on Highway 3 near Kinistino, about 7 km of microsurfacing on Highway 12, about 6 km of microsurfacing on Highway 47, along with bridge demolition and construction on Highway 271 near Maple Creek.
Construction work is subject to weather conditions and contractor progress. Motorists can also get important travel information on the Road Conditions Map sections of the Highway Hottine online at www.highways.gov.sk.ca/road-conditions/.
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For more information, contact:
Dan Palmer
Highways and Infrastructure
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4805