New machine used to install cat eyes on roadways

Over the past couple of weeks, the road marking crew of the Ministry of Transport and Works (MTW), has been installing reflective studs (cat eyes) on several roads across the island.

Although this is nothing new, they have been using a new state-of-the-art two-part epoxy and resin applicator to adhere the studs to the surface of the roadway.

Recently, the Chief Technical Officer, Jenifer King, visited one of the worksites, observing the applicator in action. She explained that the machine is quicker and the materials dry within minutes.

King praised the pace and efficiency of the road marking crew and the workings of the machinery. The CTO pointed out that reflective studs (cat eyes) are normally installed in areas to assist with visibility.

Supervisor of MTW’s road marking crew, Kirk Marshall, explained that they were installing white studs on the road edges and yellow in the center of the road. They will also be installing blue studs near fire hydrants, green for lane changes at junctions and red studs will be placed to highlight bridges.

He added, the reflective studs are placed every 50 feet on the roadway, while at corners they are 25 feet apart. Over the last couple of weeks, reflective studs have been installed at Edgerton, Christ Church; Sam Lords Castle to the Crane in St Philip; Hanson Hill to South District to the Boarded Hall roundabout, St George and Highway 2A – Bakers, St Peter to Redmans Village, St Thomas.

The crew will be installing the cat eyes on the Mighty Grynner Highway this week.

(MTW)