The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has launched a pilot program aimed at preventing wrong-way crashes on the interstate through the Wrong-Way Driving and Integrated Safety Technology System. With 216 wrong-way crashes in Kentucky since 2015, killing 69 people and seriously injuring 80, the need for improved safety measures is clear. The project, funded by a $5.14 million federal grant, will utilize advanced intelligent transportation systems technologies to detect and deter wrong-way drivers in Fayette and Jefferson counties.
The system includes four main elements: a detection system to identify wrong-way incidents, a deterrent system to warn drivers, an alert system to notify other drivers and first responders, and a mainline monitoring system to identify additional safety concerns. The project contract, estimated to cost up to $9.5 million, will test multiple vendors’ products for accuracy and reliability at key locations in the pilot program.
The goal is to improve public safety by quickly alerting authorities and other drivers to wrong-way drivers on the interstate. While the system is still in the testing phase, early results show promise in rapidly notifying drivers and first responders of potential dangers. The project is unique to Kentucky and aims to address the high level of wrong-way driving incidents in Fayette and Jefferson counties.
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet plans to expand the program to other counties based on crash history and ramp design. This innovative system represents a significant step towards reducing the number of wrong-way crashes and enhancing overall highway safety in the state.
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