Indio, California: Highway Center Line Inventor
A historical marker credits Dr. June McCarroll with the idea of painting a center line on roads for traffic safety. In 1917 she painted a dangerous section of what later became CA 99. California highways adopted the practice, and it spread from there. Two Michigan men counter-claim to have painted center lines as early as 1911.
- Address:
- Indio Blvd., Indio, CA
- Directions:
- Intersection of Indio Blvd. and Fargo St.
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The gazebo has been removed. The marker sits, facing 111, at the edge of a mowed grassy area. You can park within feet of it at the gas station next door.
[Ocean Flo, 10/02/2025]
The monument is just off of SR 111 -- there is easy street parking in the area and it is just a quick walk. The placard is next to a large gazebo and the the text faces Route 111. If you are the kind of person who is willing to go out of the way to see a placard and learn a little history, then it's certainly worth the detour!
[Chrissy M., 07/31/2018]Nearby Offbeat Places
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The 2002 marker notes how, in 1917, a truck nearly collided with Dr. June McCarroll's Model T, forcing her into a ditch. She had the idea for a painted center line for lane safety, and returned to paint it herself on the offending stretch of road.