ODOT is continuing its commitment to improving road safety in the Portland area. Over the next year, ODOT will install more than two dozen rectangular rapid flashing beacon (RRFB) devices throughout the region.
Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is committed to keeping both snowplow drivers and the traveling public safe, especially in harsh weather conditions. To achieve this goal, ODOT installed GPS-guided equipment to help reduce the risk of hazardous navigation conditions for snowplow drivers.
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ODOT’s Installation of RRFB devices in Portland
As part of its Safety and Targeted Enforcement Program (STEP) initiative, the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has announced plans to install more than two dozen rectangular rapid flashing beacon (RRFB) devices over the next year.
RRFBs are unique safety devices that alert oncoming motorists to the presence of pedestrians, bikers, and other vulnerable road users. When activated, RRFBs flash yellow lights that imitate those of a traffic signal, indicating drivers to slow down and proceed with caution.
For the past decade, the agency has been successfully using RRFBs to improve safety on busy roads in the Portland area, particularly in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods. These areas often experience higher rates of pedestrian injuries. The use of RRFBs has proven to be highly effective in promoting pedestrian safety and reducing the number of related injuries.
To educate the traveling public about these devices, ODOT has created three videos that explain the advantages of RRFBs, how to use them and how the agency chooses the sites for their installation.
By taking proactive steps to reduce the risk of collisions, ODOT is helping to make Oregon’s roads and highways safer for all its users.
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Unlocking safety through GPS: How ODOT is protecting snowplow drivers and road users
The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is continuously striving to improve safety and mobility for drivers during hazardous weather. In low visibility conditions or large snowstorm events, snowplow drivers rely on visual cues such as guardrails and road paint for navigation. This can be a dangerous and costly situation for everyone involved.
To combat this issue, ODOT has implemented GPS-guided technology. This system enables operators to locate their position on the roadway and guide equipment with greater accuracy. Additionally, it helps track and monitor the equipment in real time, allowing for better decision making and improved scheduling for maintenance operations.
The Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) State Transportation Innovation Council (STIC) Incentive Program has been instrumental in standardizing innovative practices such as GPS-guided equipment. The program offers technical assistance and funding of up to $100,000 per STIC per year.
The funding provided by the STIC Incentive Program can be used to develop guidance and standards, implement process changes and much more. In addition to helping standardize innovative solutions, the Incentive Program also helps to increase efficiency, reduce costs and improve safety in the infrastructure industry.
SOURCES:
ODOT, FHWA
