The following projects provide an immediate positive impact on transportation operations and safety, or provide the foundation for future development of intelligent transportation system (ITS) applications.


Automated Bridge De-icing Pilot Project

Winter weather conditions in Iowa can be extremely hazardous, especially on super-elevated sections of our bridges. Automated de-icing systems help to counteract ice from forming on bridges, and reduce traffic incidents. When sensors indicate icy conditions, liquid chemicals are released onto the bridge deck and other areas leading up to the bridge. Bridge de-icing helps to keep winter traffic flowing more smoothly.

FORETELL™ - Weather Forecasting Technology

FORETELL is a weather forecasting system that allows transportation professionals to disseminate appropriate weather conditions to motorists prior to making travel plans. Special computers assist in identifying weather changes hours before actual occurrences so transportation officials can make more accurate decisions about keeping travelers safe. The public will then be able to make more specific travel decisions, based on detailed road weather warnings and other important information.

Incident Warning System Pilot Project

Various communications tools will alert travelers of hazardous occurrences and travel options. Radio broadcast systems, DOT Web sites, and variable message signs transmit current conditions and traffic flow information to drivers. Computerized warning systems located at high-crash locations can forewarn motorists to select alternative routes, or to anticipate significant obstacles. Incident warning technologies help to reduce the number of traffic incidents and delays on Iowa roads.

Integrated Database Development and Packaging

The Iowa Department of Transportation is developing a method to integrate databases within various transportation systems and organizations. By linking existing technology programs, the DOT will be able to maximize resources and minimize overlap between different transportation systems.

Iowa DOT Statewide Communications Study and Plan Development

A study to address the dissemination of information within the state’s transportation network will help determine how capital investments and enhancements should be made. The objective is to efficiently share information among all state agencies, local government, emergency management, public defense and the general public. This plan will help to provide the necessary officials with access to ITS information.

National Model Expansion/Speed Processing of Crash Data

With special laptop computers installed in their vehicles, law enforcement officers can efficiently collect, transmit and process data. This helps expedite transportation-related incident reports and increase safety on our state’s highways. The system reads barcodes and processes driver/vehicle-related documents in a matter of minutes, allowing for more streamlined correspondence. Such documents include crash reporting, citation writing, reporting operating while intoxicated, and commercial vehicle inspections. The National Model originates from TraCS (Traffic and Criminal Software).

PrePass - Interstate Transportation Management

Technology increases the efficiency of commercial motor carriers by allowing drivers with proven safety records to bypass open weigh stations. A transponder in a truck signals a receiver above the highway to determine if the truck may continue traveling. The system allows for concentration on the more high-risk motor carriers who are signaled to stop at the weigh station. PrePass is in use in at least 18 other states and allows for a more consistent flow on our nation’s roadway system.

Red Light Running Pilot Project - A Public Education Campaign

Wireless video technology helps increase public awareness of the problem of red light running. When a car speeds through a red light, video sensors take a picture and process the time, date, vehicle speed, and amount of time the light was red. From the data produced, educational material will be developed to emphasize the danger of the issue, and hopefully, reduce the number of crashes at intersections. This project will be conducted around the state to raise awareness and identify the extent of the problem.

Red Light Running Summary

Statewide ITS Marketing and Education

A statewide marketing campaign is aimed at educating the public, decision makers of all levels, and Iowa DOT employees on the safety, efficiency, mobility and convenience of ITS technologies. ITS representatives will explain the ITS projects being implemented throughout the state, and help to promote the numerous safety measures that will be of advantage to thousands of motorists who use our transportation system each year.

Weatherview - Road Weather Information on the Iowa DOT Web Site

Real-time transportation-related weather updates can be accessed via the Internet at www.DOTweatherview.com. Continuously updated travel conditions help motorists plan ahead for local and/or long distance commutes and travel safety. Weatherview combines the Iowa DOT’s Road Weather Information System (RWIS) with Automated Weather Observing Stations (AWOS) at Iowa’s airports to serve as a powerful resource in assisting site visitors with their safety on Iowa’s transportation system.