A recurring traffic query has surfaced regarding unusual pavement markings near the bike lanes on East Union Avenue in Denver's Tech Center (DTC). Peter from Denver reached out to Denver7 Traffic Anchor Jayson Luber seeking clarity on these markings located near Ulster Street and Union.

Understanding the Peculiar Pavement Markings

The Purpose of Isolated Double White Lines

These markings appear alongside the bike lane running in both directions on E Union Ave, situated between S Monaco St and DTC Blvd. The markings consist of small slivers of white line painted adjacent to the outer edge of the bike lane.

The intention behind this extra line is clear: it signals to drivers that they must not cross the double white lines into or through the bike lane. These sections are strategically placed where drivers might attempt a right turn into a parking lot, driveway, or intersecting roadway.

Observation of Driver Behavior Near DTC Entrances

Jayson Luber conducted an observation session focusing on westbound traffic originating from DTC Blvd. He monitored two specific locations where these double white lines are present.

  • One spot is the right turn access point for the parking garage at the 4610 S Ulster office building.
  • The second location is the entrance to the parking lot serving the 4601 DTC Blvd office building.

Luber noted a significant lack of compliance during his hour-long observation. The majority of drivers drifted over the double white lines, entering the bike lane to execute their right turns. Only about one in every twelve drivers waited until after the double lines to make the hard right turn.

Markings on Other Sections of Union Avenue

On the westbound side, the double white lines also extend along Union Avenue from S Newport St until just before Monaco Street. The eastbound side features these lines in a couple of areas as well.

One particularly unusual placement is near the Marriott hotel, where the double white line extends for approximately 450 feet without any corresponding right turn opportunity. However, the solid lines transition to dashed lines just before the right turn onto S Syracuse St, signaling drivers they may merge across the bike lane to turn south toward Belleview.

Official Response and Enforcement Realities

Denver DOT's Explanation

When questioned about the seemingly arbitrary placement of the double lines, Denver's Department of Transportation provided a general statement. They explained that the double white lines function as a buffer to maintain horizontal distance between travel lanes and the bike lane, enhancing cyclist comfort and safety.

The department also clarified that if parking is allowed along the curb, drivers are permitted to cross these stripes to access parking spaces.

Enforcement Policy

While crossing solid double white lines technically violates a city ordinance, drivers should not anticipate immediate enforcement action. Denver Police policy prohibits officers from stopping vehicles solely for low-level infractions that do not pose immediate safety risks.

Jayson Luber, a long-time Denver-metro traffic expert, continues to investigate and report on driving issues across the region via his award-winning podcast and social media channels.