Speed Buttons Lose To Thermoplastic

Alas, the Texas Department of Transportation is replacing the ceramic lane divider buttons with thermoplastic striping.

1 minute read

September 16, 2000, 9:00 AM PDT

"The Texas Department of Transportation is phasing out the widespread use of ceramic buttons, known affectionately by motorists as "turtles," on state roadways. Beginning in October, contractors on new state roads will no longer be allowed to use the 3/4-inch-high buttons as lane dividers. Gone will be the familiar thud-thud-thud sound of tires running over buttons that has alerted Texas drivers to lane changes for more than 40 years. The buttons will be allowed only on the shoulders of rural state highways."

Thanks to Laura Krafft

Read the full story: Texas Is Sending Its Road `Turtles' To the Country

Thursday, September 14, 2000 in Wall St. Journal

Transportation Texas

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