Dive Brief:
- The Massachusetts Department of Transportation is expanding its weigh-in-motion transportation program to improve roadway safety, increase freight data collection and modernize infrastructure statewide, according to a March 5 press release.
- In partnership with Quarterhill, a Canada-based tech firm, the agency will invest $6.4 million to install 15 weigh-in-motion stations and launch a commercial vehicle compliance software platform.
- The project will involve installations along Interstates 84, 90, 91, 93, 95, 195, 290, 295, 395 and 495, as well as State Routes 3, 24 and 146.
Dive Insight:
Weigh-in-motion stations can capture real-time data on the weight, speed and height of commercial vehicles as they travel at highway speeds. The systems help law enforcement identify overweight or otherwise noncompliant trucks that can damage roadways, while allowing compliant vehicles to continue moving without stopping.
Currently, Massachusetts operates six weigh-in-motion stations, according to the Department of Transportation, not including two that border Rhode Island and Connecticut. The project will nearly triple that number and expand monitoring coverage across MassDOT Districts 1 through 5.
In the release, Quarterhill said the stations will incorporate vehicle identification systems, tire anomaly detection and other roadside equipment designed to improve enforcement and freight data collection.
"As freight volumes increase, transportation agencies are prioritizing investments in advanced roadside intelligence technologies to secure real-time, accurate vehicle data solutions," said Chuck Myers, CEO of Quarterhill, in the release.
Under the agreement, Quarterhill will also provide calibration, testing, training and maintenance services for the system. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation is installing 15 weigh-in-motion stations around the state to improve safety and modernize infrastructure.
The company has worked with several transportation agencies in North America to deploy smart infrastructure. In October, the Arkansas DOT and highway police announced a similar weigh-in-motion initiative with Quarterhill. Later that month, the Washington State DOT also unveiled a $2.3 million project with the company to deploy tech to help truckers locate available parking along Interstate 5.
