USDOT Adds New Technology to Improve Road Safety
SALT LAKE CITY — The Department of Transportation (USDOT) has announced a significant investment of $20 million in federal funding to enhance road safety along the Wasatch Front. The primary goal? To save lives by making intersections smarter and more responsive to emergency situations.
How Does It Work?
The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) is set to equip certain emergency vehicles and buses with new technology that communicates with traffic lights. As these vehicles approach an intersection, the traffic lights will automatically turn green, ensuring a clear path. This Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) project aims to help emergency responders reach their destinations faster and assist buses in maintaining their schedules.
Automatic and Driver-Free
The beauty of this technology is that it operates automatically. Drivers don't need to do anything; the system handles it all.
Expansion Plans
Currently, about 500 intersections and 300 vehicles have been outfitted with the necessary detectors and computers. USDOT has ambitious plans to expand the V2X project significantly this year.
Collaboration with Automakers
The next phase involves teaming up with automakers. USDOT wants all vehicles to eventually have the ability to receive notifications about accidents or road hazards, especially at intersections and bridges.
"How many times do we see on Interstate 80 these huge pileups? There’s a crash, and hundreds of vehicles end up piling into it because they can’t see it," stated Shailen Bhatt, Federal Highway Administrator. "This is about giving them the vision, giving them the access."
Wireless Sensors and Connectivity
The technology relies on wireless sensors and connectivity. If integrated into cars, people could receive critical notifications without relying on their smartphones. USDOT's goal is to implement this technology in 25% of signalized intersections in the 75 top metro areas.
Salt Lake City's Role
Currently, 20% of intersections in Salt Lake City already use this technology, making it one of the few pilot markets for the program.
By enhancing safety measures and leveraging technology, USDOT aims to not only reduce accidents but also improve response times for emergency services. This smart technology represents a crucial step forward in making our roads safer for everyone.
