VDOT launches SmarterRoads transportation data portal for developers

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has launched SmarterRoads, a new cloud based data portal initiative that provides free, widespread access to a range of VDOT information to organisations interested in creating value-added transportation applications and products for end users. SmarterRoads provides direct access to road and transportation information, beyond currently available VDOT traffic operations data, in one portal site.
August 21, 2017 Read time: 2 mins
The 1747 Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has launched SmarterRoads, a new cloud based data portal initiative that provides free, widespread access to a range of VDOT information to organisations interested in creating value-added transportation applications and products for end users. SmarterRoads provides direct access to road and transportation information, beyond currently available VDOT traffic operations data, in one portal site.


Through the creation of the SmarterRoads portal, VDOT aims to accelerate Connected and automated vehicle (CAV) technology development in Virginia by sharing transportation data with third-party sector business, application developers and university partners.

After accepting the SmarterRoads usage agreement, users can create an account and subscribe to as many as 22 different data sets. While SmarterRoads will undergo phased enhancement roll outs, initial data sets include traffic volumes, speed limits, travel advisories, lane closures, crashes, truck restrictions, traffic sensors, incidents, sign messages and locations, paving schedules, short- and long-term weather events, Six-Year Improvement Plan major road construction, and signal phase and timing data. Anticipated audiences include app and software developers, the CAV industry, the auto industry, Original Equipment Manufacturers, universities and researchers, other departments of transportation and federal, state and local agencies.

Feedback can be submitted through the SmarterRoads portal. VDOT will continue to simplify the process to add new users and expand data offerings to meet development needs.

Related Content

  • June 26, 2018
    Managed lane operators: meet the CAV pioneers
    There is some controversy over the testing of connected and autonomous vehicles – but Robert Deans of Transurban North America explains how managed lanes could be vital in the development of CAVs, benefiting everyone. Managed lane operators have the opportunity to establish themselves as leaders in the testing and roll-out of connected and automated vehicles (CAVs), assisting and accelerating the transition of CAVs onto road networks to deliver economic and safety benefits. Managed lane facilities
    Read More
  • October 3, 2016
    VDOT awards Q-Free state-wide traffic management deal
    The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) in the US has awarded Q-Free Open Roads a contract valued at around US$25 million to implement and maintain a new state-wide advanced transportation management system. Q-Free will deliver its centralised web-based Open TMS software and services to bring five transportation operations centres (TOC) on to a single platform and provide VDOT with a state-wide integrated active traffic management system. The new system will provide VDOT with the ability to c
    Read More
  • October 22, 2014
    Bespoke ITS is helping to reduced collisions on America’s rural roads
    David Crawford cherrypicks conference and award highlights Almost 30% of all US citizens live in rural areas or very small communities, and 34 of the 50 states exceed this level in their own populations, with the proportions rising as high as 85%. And although rural routes carry only 35% of all traffic, the accidents that occur on them account for some 54% of all US road traffic accident deaths.
    Read More
  • December 7, 2021
    Here are the ITS America Awards finalists
    The Best of ITS and Best of Mobility on Demand (MOD) finalists have been selected by a distinguished panel and now the winners will be judged LIVE - by you, the attendees!
    Read More

Highlighted Content