Written by Dean Bikle at Verra Mobility
Chattanooga, Tenn. to test AI for intersection safety
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga's Center for Urban Informatics and Progress has received a $500,000 grant from the Tennessee Economic and Community Development Department to improve intersection safety using real-time technology. The projects involve using AI to predict collisions and implementing a "smart crosswalk" with colored lighting to alert drivers to pedestrians.
Calif. OKs $1.7B for highway safety, climate resilience
The California Transportation Commission has approved nearly $1.7 billion for infrastructure projects to enhance safety, mobility and climate resilience, aligning with Gov. Gavin Newsom's "Build More, Faster -- For All" initiative. Key projects include rehabilitation of Interstate 805 in San Diego County and emergency repairs for roads damaged by wildfires and storms.
N.C. planning group backs toll option for bridge funding
The Wilmington Urban Area Metropolitan Planning Organization has voted 8-4 in favor of considering a toll to help fund the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge replacement. The North Carolina Department of Transportation needs the organization's support before including the toll as a funding option. Additional funding from federal and state sources is uncertain, with a federal grant under review by the Trump administration.
N.C. Turnpike Authority to install traffic counters
The North Carolina Turnpike Authority is set to install traffic counters on US 158 in Kitty Hawk to gather data for the proposed Mid-Currituck Bridge Project. The counters will track vehicles with toll transponders, aiding in traffic and usage forecasting. Installation will require lane closures, with at least one lane to remain open at all times.
Judge: Feds can't block funds over NYC congestion pricing
A federal judge has temporarily blocked the Trump administration from withholding funds from New York over the city's congestion pricing program, which charges vehicles entering Manhattan's Congestion Relief Zone to reduce traffic. The ruling, in favor of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, prevents federal "compliance actions" until at least June 9.
Texas law targets habitual toll violators with penalties
Texas Senate Bill 1792 allows authorities to enforce penalties against habitual toll violators, defined as drivers with 100 or more unpaid tolls in a year. Penalties include vehicle registration blocks, fines and potential impoundment.
Bay City Bridge Partners to resume toll escalation
Michigan's Bay City Bridge Partners will resume its escalation process for late and unpaid tolls in June after a grace period. The company urges customers to clear balances to avoid fees. Bay City residents can qualify for free tolling by setting up a BC-PASS account and installing a transponder.
