Implementing the necessary UAS digital infrastructure to integrate UAS technology into the operations of MassDOT’s Highway Division and a variety of MassDOT agencies will enhance the state’s ability to collect, store, process, and disseminate UAS data throughout MassDOT, according to the agency.
“The Massachusetts Department of Transportation Aeronautics Division is recognized as being a leader in the use of drones for tasks of the Highway Division and the funding from this second phase of the AID grant will give us a unique opportunity to improve and expand digital software systems for drones,” said Monica Tibbits-Nutt, Transportation Secretary and CEO, in a statement.
“By using drones to collect and analyze data on highway infrastructure, this second phase of our project represents a significant step toward leveraging new technology to help MassDOT Highway improve management processes, strategic planning, and operations,” said Denise Garcia, acting administrator MassDOT Aeronautics.
The UAS-based digital infrastructure is designed to integrate with MassDOT Highway projects across Massachusetts, ranging from rural to urban locations, supporting a range of projects, including advanced bridge inspection, asset mapping, construction monitoring, and highway corridor asset detection/inspection.
The new technology is anticipated to lower the costs of some projects, provide enhanced asset inspection opportunities, and allow for the monitoring of many construction projects simultaneously.
