Driving at night can be nerve-wracking, especially on dimly lit roads with sharp turns and steep descents. The New South Wales (NSW) government is taking an innovative approach to address this issue, trialling glow-in-the-dark road markings on Bulli Pass, south of Sydney. This six-month experiment aims to improve visibility and reduce the number of accidents on this notoriously tricky stretch of road.
Why Bulli Pass?
If you’ve ever driven Bulli Pass, you’ll know it’s not for the faint-hearted. This steep, winding road with its hairpin turn has a reputation for being a hotspot for near misses—particularly after dark. In the 12 months leading up to June 2024, a staggering 125 near-misses involving large trucks and motorbikes were recorded between 9 pm and 4 am. These numbers highlight the urgent need for a practical solution to make this route safer.
How Does It Work?
The trial involves painting photoluminescent lines on the road, which absorb sunlight during the day and glow softly at night. Think of it as the road charging itself under the sun, only to guide you through the darkness later. A glow-in-the-dark sign will also be placed at the hairpin turn to warn drivers of the upcoming sharp curve. It’s a simple, energy-efficient idea that could make a big difference for those driving in low-light conditions.
Putting It to the Test
Before rolling it out on Bulli Pass, the NSW government conducted rigorous testing at the Future Mobility Testing and Research Centre in Cudal. Vehicles of all types—from cars and trucks to motorbikes and bicycles—navigated a glowing test course. The trials focused on assessing how well the markings enhanced visibility and whether they affected road safety, including slip resistance.
The positive results gave the green light for the Bulli Pass trial. Now, it’s all about seeing how the system performs in a real-world setting.
What Happens Next?
If the trial is a success, we could see glow-in-the-dark markings implemented in other parts of NSW, particularly in areas with limited street lighting or a history of nighttime accidents. It’s a promising concept, offering an environmentally friendly and cost-effective way to improve road safety. However, it’s not without challenges. A similar trial in Victoria back in 2022 didn’t result in a broader rollout due to mixed results, so all eyes are on how well the NSW trial addresses safety concerns in this high-risk area.
A Glowing Future?
This initiative isn’t just about keeping drivers safe—it’s also about pushing boundaries and embracing innovative solutions. Imagine how transformative this technology could be if it becomes widespread. Roads across Australia could be safer, especially in rural or remote areas where street lighting is scarce.
For now, the glow-in-the-dark road markings at Bulli Pass are a small but meaningful step towards improving road safety. If successful, it could spark a brighter, safer future for drivers across the country. Let’s hope it works, because who wouldn’t want roads that light up like a safety net in the night?
Sources:
NSW Government Media Release – “A bright idea to keep drivers safe on unlit roads”
