Official Information Request - 15 January 2019

Sent: Thursday, 31 January 2019 9:47 a.m.

Subject: TRIM: LGOIMA request - red and white road paint

I refer to your official information request of 15 January 2019 regarding red and white road paint used for pedestrian crossings. I have responded below as per the questions in your inquiry:

1. Expected or actual lifespan of white road paint used for pedestrian crossings, ie: from the time it is first applied, to when it is needed to be re-applied.

Road marking lifespan varies depending on type and loading of traffic as well as whether the marking is new or has been remarked, ie: marking located in heavy braking/acceleration areas tend to wear at a higher rate than areas on straight sections of road under lower stress. New road markings generally last up to 12 months where they are then remarked. Road markings on arterial and collector roads are remarked every 12 to 24 months.

2. Expected or actual lifespan of the red road paint used for pedestrian crossings, cycle-ways and where it is otherwise used, ie: from the time it is first applied, to when it is needed to be re-applied.

The red pedestrian crossings lifespan varies depending on type and loading of traffic as well as whether the marking is new or has been remarked. Markings that have been remarked multiple times have a longer life due to the paint build up on the surface. New road markings generally last up to 12 months where they are then remarked. Road markings on arterial and collector roads are remarked every 12 to 24 months.

3. Cost per litre (or the standard purchase quantity/cost) of white paint used

The cost of the white paint varies depending on the type of road marking. Costs to Rotorua Lakes Council are covered by Contract 17/004 Rotorua District Wide Roadmarking 2017-2019. This contract covers the provision of roadmarking in the Rotorua District. The Rotorua District comprises of 995km of road network of which 861km is sealed. New pedestrian crossing bars cost around $16/m2.

4. Cost per litre (or the standard purchase quantity/cost) of red paint used

The anti-skid red crossing are paid for on a per square metre. To supply and install red anti-skid crossings is around $23/m2.

NB: These rates include ALL costs to supply materials, labour and overhead costs.

There is a $7 difference between the white and red paint install costs however it is considered the safety benefits, including increased visibility and lower speeds approaching the prioritised locations, justify the increased spend.

5. Are there additional crossings planned in Rotorua where the red and white and/or red paint only will be used instead of the white crossings?

As Rotorua's urban cycle network continues to evolve there will be additional crossings added using the red and white paint which is consistent with our network. In some instances these crossings already exist and in others there will be new ones planned as we connect up our network and design safety improvements. We use the red background to place more emphasis on visibility and to raise awareness to all users of the need to slow down. In addition when remarking is required at prioritised locations, for example outside schools, we are adding the red to the pedestrian crossings to maintain consistency and enhance safety for our more vulnerable users.

As per the Act, we are obliged to advise that you may contact the Ombudsman at the address below if you have any concerns with the response provided by Council, by writing to:

The Office of the Ombudsman

PO Box 10 152

WELLINGTON 6143

Alternatively, you may email info@ombudsman.parliament.nz or use the online complaints form available at www.ombudsman.parliament.nz/make-a-complaint.

Kind regards