ADOT 50th anniversary: How the dept has used innovation and tech to keep state moving into the future

Here are just some of the innovative ways ADOT has changed Arizona's transportation services.

UPDATED JUL 9, 2024

Arizona’s transportation system has seen a great many changes over the last five decades. (Pic for representational purposes only)

Phoenix, Arizona: ADOT turns 50 this year and as the state celebrates and pays tribute to an iconic institution that has literally changed the face of the state, it's the employees of the department who are the real stars.

“I get to work with and learn from some of the best and brightest people,” said Ed Green, a 62-year state employee who started with the Arizona Highway Department and now is a hazardous material coordinator in ADOT’s Environmental Planning Group.

“Not only ADOT, but the world has changed with the inclusion of available technologies that make our tasks easier and quicker,” said Tami Wollaston, who started as a draftsman nearly 51 years ago and currently is a transportation engineering specialist in ADOT’s Roadway Engineering Group.

“Over time this agency also has included necessary environmental and cultural features along state highways,” said LeRoy Brady, chief landscape architect in ADOT’s Roadway Engineering Group and a 50-year employee. “We’ve improved highways while maintaining Arizona’s unique beauty.”

And it is these very employees that have driven the department's innovation and use of ermeging technologies over the last 50 years. Here are just some of the innovative ways ADOT has changed Arizona's transportation services.

I-17 and Happy Valley Road Diverging Diamond Interchange.

Diverging Diamond Interchanges (DDIs): ADOT has introduced DDIs, like the one at Interstate 17 and Happy Valley Road, to improve traffic flow and safety. This innovative design reduces conflict points and enhances efficiency at busy interchanges.

Dust Detection and Warning System: To combat the dangers of dust storms, especially on Interstate 10, ADOT has implemented a dust detection system that uses sensors and warning signs to alert drivers of reduced visibility and hazardous conditions.

Wildlife Crossings: ADOT has constructed wildlife overpasses and underpasses, such as those on State Route 77, to reduce vehicle-wildlife collisions.

High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lanes: ADOT has expanded the use of HOV lanes on major highways to promote carpooling, reduce congestion, and improve traffic flow during peak travel times.

Freeway Service Patrol (FSP): This program provides free roadside assistance to stranded motorists on selected highways, helping to keep traffic moving and reducing the risk of secondary accidents.

Digital License Plates: ADOT has piloted digital license plates, which offer features like customizable messages, automated vehicle registration renewals, and real-time alerts if the vehicle is stolen.

Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS): ADOT utilizes ATMS to monitor and manage traffic flow on highways. This system includes traffic cameras, electronic message boards, and real-time data collection to improve traffic management and response to incidents.

ADOT has experimented with rubberized asphalt and other noise-reducing pavement technologies as seen here on th I-17

Quiet Pavement Technology: ADOT has experimented with rubberized asphalt and other noise-reducing pavement technologies to decrease road noise in residential areas adjacent to highways.

Public-Private Partnerships (P3s): ADOT has engaged in P3s for various projects, such as the Loop 202 South Mountain Freeway, to leverage private investment for public infrastructure projects, accelerating development and reducing costs.

Dynamic Message Signs (DMS): These electronic signs provide real-time information to drivers about traffic conditions, travel times, road closures, and emergency alerts, helping to improve situational awareness and safety.

These electronic signs provide real-time information and often a healthy doe sof humor.

Adopt a Highway Program: This program involves community volunteers in keeping roadways clean, promoting civic responsibility, and reducing maintenance costs for the state.

Innovative Bridge Construction: ADOT has used techniques such as Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC) to reduce the time and impact of bridge projects, minimizing disruption to traffic and improving efficiency.

Automated Vehicle Location (AVL) Systems: Used for ADOT's fleet management, AVL systems track the real-time location of maintenance and service vehicles, optimizing operations and response times.