Skip to main content

ADOT installs new sensors to help track freeway traffic flow

Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) is installing new in-road sensors along the state’s freeways to monitor traffic flow in an effort to reduce congestion. The sensors provide the data used to estimate the travel times that that are displayed on message boards above freeways. The data also helps ADOT and the Maricopa Association of Governments, the regional transportation-planning agency make decisions about future freeway improvements. Using electronic wires embedded in the road, the sensors have b
May 19, 2017 Read time: 1 min
6576 Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) is installing new in-road sensors along the state’s freeways to monitor traffic flow in an effort to reduce congestion.


The sensors provide the data used to estimate the travel times that that are displayed on message boards above freeways. The data also helps ADOT and the Maricopa Association of Governments, the regional transportation-planning agency make decisions about future freeway improvements.

Using electronic wires embedded in the road, the sensors have been used along many Valley freeways for years. The current project is installing additional in-pavement sensors as a more reliable replacement for acoustic devices that are mounted on poles.

When the sensor-installation project is completed, more than 85 locations on Phoenix-area freeways will have new traffic-flow sensors.

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • What's next for traffic management and data collection?
    January 26, 2012
    As the technologies and stakeholders in traffic management evolve, what can we expect to see happening in the coming years? For many, the conversation of the moment is just how, and how far, the newer technologies and services provided principally by the private sector should be allowed to intrude into the realms of traffic management.
  • "AI can help fast-track Net Zero and Vision Zero," says VivaCity
    January 16, 2024
    Artificial intelligence isn't just about self-driving cars - and ‘smart’ doesn't always have to be shiny, new and innovative. Mark Nicholson, CEO at VivaCity, offers a few predictions for 2024...
  • Integrate systems to reduce roadside infrastructure
    January 27, 2012
    David Crawford reviews promising current developments. Instrumentation of the road infrastructure has grown to become one of the most dynamic sectors of the ITS industry. Drivers for its deployment include global concerns over the commercial and environmental pressures of traffic congestion, the importance of keeping drivers informed throughout their journeys, and the need to reduce accident rates and promote the safety of all road users, for example by enforcing traffic safety rules.
  • Georgia DoT showcases its connectivity
    March 3, 2020
    Georgia DoT’s regional connected vehicle programme could be a model for the rest of the US. Adam Hill speaks to two men involved in making it a reality – and takes a look at the state’s first-ever Tech Showcase