Seeing Orange and White Lines on the Freeway? Here’s What They Mean

Transportation officials in Southern California are piloting a new strategy to improve safety in construction zones by using orange and white lane striping. Initiated in late 2021 on the 5 Freeway in northern San Diego County as part of a $987 million project, the colored striping aims to enhance driver awareness and reduce speeds. Early results show significant success, with 83% of surveyed drivers noting increased construction zone awareness and 72% reporting slower speeds. The striping, which also improves visibility in adverse weather, may become a standard practice statewide if the pilot program’s positive outcomes persist through its expected completion in 2025.