ADOT awarded $6M grant to help alleviate traffic congestion on Loop 101
Oct 24, 2017, 2:08 PM
PHOENIX — The Arizona Department of Transportation has been rewarded a $6 million federal grant that could help alleviate traffic congestion along the Loop 101 freeway near Phoenix.
The grant will allow the department to develop a Decision Support System, which would provide drivers on the Loop 101 with real-time traffic information, including the best routes to take in case of detours and instances of traffic slowing.
In a statement, John Halikowski, the department’s director, said this grant will allow the department to “take the next step to inform drivers about traffic conditions and alternate routes.”
“Improving safety and incident response are also keys to managing congestion and are at the heart of this partnership,” Halikowski said.
ADOT will work with Maricopa County and other partners to design the system along the Loop 101.
The system could also include other technologies, such as enhanced traffic signal timing to help move traffic on local streets and transit routes when the freeway is congested, according to a recent press release.
The department also hopes to develop a mobile app as part of the system in an effort to communicate with drivers in real-time.
Transit vehicles, such as buses, will also include connected vehicle technology to improve accessibility for those who depend on transit services.
In a statement, Maricopa County Department of Transportation Director Jennifer Toth said the project will effect more than just everyday, rush-hour traffic.
“This project will demonstrate how technology innovation can not only improve everyday driving but also improve how we manage congestion when our region hosts major events,” Toth said.
The project is expected to be designed and installed within the next four years, according to ADOT.
