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

  • October 2, 2020
    C-V2X protects roadside workers in Virginia 
    Audi, VDoT and Qualcomm work on deployment which utilises Q8 vehicles and C-V2X vests
    Read More
  • July 24, 2023
    Navigating the data privacy landscape
    If customer data is not protected then the journey towards better, less polluting public transport solutions is likely to be delayed, warns Alexis Suggett of Cubic Transportation Systems
    Read More
  • December 24, 2012
    Customised traffic information with new SmartWay application
    The new SmartWay app from the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) p will help drivers navigate Tennessee highways, providing up-to-the-minute customised traffic information. The home screen for the TDOT SmartWay App is a map, which will locate the user’s current position. Users will see icons on the left hand side of the map for traffic speeds, incidents, cameras, road construction, road conditions, and dynamic message signs. Map views can be customised by simply clicking on those icons.
    Read More
  • January 23, 2025
    Here’s why WiM is value for money
    Weigh in Motion systems are not new. What is new is their ability to collect more data and – importantly – more accurate data about axle loading and vehicle weight. Despite the obvious benefits, including safer highways and possibility of automated legal weight enforcement, obstacles remain for faster uptake. David Arminas reports on the manufacturers’ perspective…
    Read More

Highlighted Content