The New South Wales government is taking a luminous step towards enhancing road safety with the introduction of glow-in-the-dark road markings on Bulli Pass, a challenging mountain road located approximately 76 kilometers southeast of Sydney. This innovative trial is set to illuminate the way for drivers, quite literally, in an effort to reduce accidents and near-misses on this treacherous stretch.
The Glowing Solution
The trial will feature photoluminescent painted markings that absorb and store sunlight during the day, emitting a soft glow at night. These Glow Roads are designed to:
- Improve nighttime visibility
- Enhance line marking visibility in adverse weather conditions
- Provide a safe alternative where traditional street lighting is impractical
Why Bulli Pass?
Bulli Pass was selected as the trial site due to a significant increase in near-miss incidents:
- 125 near-misses recorded in the 12 months leading up to June 30, 2024
- Particularly dangerous between 9:00 pm and 4:00 am
- Heavily used by large trucks and motorcycles
The hairpin turn partway down the steep descent will be the first location in NSW to receive the glow treatment, aiming to increase awareness of the sharp bend.
Trial Details
- Duration: Six months
- Focus: Nighttime hours (9:00 pm to 4:00 am)
- Additional feature: A glow sign will also be installed
Rigorous Testing
Before the public trial, Transport for NSW conducted thorough testing at their Future Mobility Testing and Research Centre in Cudal:
- Various vehicles tested: Cars, trucks, motorcycles, and bicycles
- Skid testing performed to ensure slip resistance comparable to current line markings
Potential for Wider Implementation
If successful, the NSW government will consider implementing Glow Roads technology on other high-risk roads across the state, particularly in areas where traditional street lighting is not feasible.
Government Perspectives
Minister for Roads John Graham emphasized the importance of the trial, stating, "Data shows around a third of fatal crashes in NSW happen at night. If this trial is deemed a success, we will look at its application on other locations with a history of crashes or near-misses where better visibility is needed."
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison highlighted the potential benefits for regional areas, describing the initiative as "an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly solution on regional roads with limited or non-existent street lighting."
Innovation in Road Safety
This trial represents a significant step in road safety innovation, potentially setting a new standard for nighttime driving conditions across Australia. As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, such advancements could play a crucial role in reducing accidents and saving lives on some of the state's most challenging roads.
