The fading paint on Ottawa’s roadways is creating more than just an eyesore for drivers—it’s becoming a significant safety concern, according to River Ward Councillor Riley Brockington.
During yesterday’s Transportation Committee meeting, Brockington highlighted what many Ottawa motorists have experienced firsthand: lane markings, stop lines, and crosswalk indicators disappearing well before they should.
“I’ve received numerous calls from residents confused about lane designations, particularly at busy intersections,” Brockington told me during our follow-up interview. “When you can’t tell where your lane begins or ends, especially during rain or at night, it creates dangerous situations.”
The issue stems from the city’s current use of water-based paint, which typically lasts only 8-12 months under ideal conditions. With Ottawa’s harsh winters and constant road maintenance, many markings fade within just a few months of application.
Public Works General Manager Alain Gonthier acknowledged the problem during the committee meeting, confirming that the city has been exploring more durable alternatives, including thermoplastic markings that can last up to five years.
“The challenge has always been balancing longevity with cost,” Gonthier explained. “Thermoplastic solutions cost approximately five times more than traditional paint, but they could prove more economical over their lifespan.”
Ottawa currently spends approximately $2.8 million annually on road marking maintenance. City staff estimates that switching entirely to thermoplastic would initially increase that budget to nearly $14 million.
For River Ward resident Sarah Mullins, the investment seems worthwhile. “I nearly had an accident last month on Riverside Drive when I couldn’t see the turning lane marking in the rain,” she said. “You can’t put a price on safety.”
The city has been testing thermoplastic markings at several high-traffic intersections downtown and along portions of Carling Avenue since 2021. Early results show promising durability, though the full assessment continues.
Transportation Committee Chair Tim Tierney expressed support for expanding these pilot projects. “We need to look at the true cost over time,” he noted. “If we’re repainting the same lines multiple times a year versus installing something that lasts five years, the math might work in favor of the more durable option.”
The Ottawa Police Service reported 418 collisions in 2023 where poor road markings were cited as a contributing factor—a 12% increase from the previous year.
Brockington’s motion, which passed unanimously at committee, directs staff to prepare a comprehensive report on alternative road marking solutions, including cost comparisons accounting for frequency of application, traffic disruption costs, and safety implications.
The report is expected to return to committee by September, potentially in time to influence next year’s budget discussions.
“This isn’t about aesthetics,” Brockington emphasized. “This is about basic road safety and ensuring drivers can clearly understand the rules of the road.”
In my twenty years covering Ottawa’s infrastructure issues, the road marking problem stands out as one of those seemingly minor concerns that actually impacts daily life substantially. I’ve noticed the deterioration myself while driving through Barrhaven and along Hunt Club Road, where lane markings can disappear almost entirely during rainy evenings.
The city’s caution about increased costs is understandable given current budget pressures, but as our infrastructure ages and traffic increases, these fundamental safety features deserve renewed attention.
