Dive Brief:
- The Arkansas Department of Transportation and highway police announced a $2.7 million project to streamline inspection and improve safety to move freight efficiently without expanding roads, according to an Oct. 9 press release.
- Both agencies will deploy artificial intelligence-based sensors known as a mainline sorter system that can weigh trucks moving at highway speeds. The technology will be deployed in Lehi on I-40 Eastbound and in Marion on I-55 Southbound, known as key entry points in the state, per the release.
- "These upgrades will strengthen enforcement, improve roadway safety, and keep goods moving efficiently across our state and beyond. This initiative is a win for our economy, drivers, and communities,” said Jeff Holmes, chief of Arkansas Highway Police.
Dive Insight:
The Arkansas Department of Transportation is using intelligent transportation system solutions to address growing freight volumes in the state.
Canada-based tech firm Quarterhill, the company the state contracted with, offers weigh-in-motion sensors, allowing for virtual weigh stations that also provide vehicle dimensioning.
As freight volumes grow, so do the challenges to process cargo. The mainline sorter systems aim to solve three steps when it comes to streamlining goods: capturing truck weights, inspecting tire conditions and verifying vehicle credentials.
“Non-compliant or potentially high-risk vehicles are directed to the inspection station, while safe and compliant carriers are signaled to bypass. This keeps freight moving and enforcement focused where it matters most,” a Quarterhill spokesperson told Trucking Dive via email.
Quarterhill’s business extends beyond Arkansas. Other states, including Idaho, Oklahoma and Washington have integrated the company’s systems into their statewide operations, the spokesperson said.
Top imports in Arkansas were motor vehicle parts and accessories, explosive ammunition and party decorations, per July 2025 data from the Observatory of Economic Complexity. Imports were mainly from China, Canada, Mexico, Germany and Italy.
“The project underscores the importance of technology-driven solutions for freight corridors where expansion is challenging, but traffic volumes continue to grow,” per the release. “As interstate commerce continues to surge, these upgrades will ensure Arkansas remains at the forefront of efficient, safe freight movement.”
