Little Rock, Arkansas – The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) has been awarded a $1 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Accelerated Innovation Deployment Demonstration Program. This funding will allow ARDOT to expand its use of Lane Blade technology, which enhances road safety and efficiency in debris removal.
Advancing Road Safety with Lane Blade Devices
Lane Blades are specialized vehicle attachments designed to clear debris from roadways without requiring workers to step onto the road. This technology significantly improves safety by keeping workers inside their vehicles while quickly and effectively removing hazards from high-traffic areas.
“Debris on our roadways presents an immediate danger to travelers, especially on busy highways,” said Steve Frisbee, ARDOT Assistant Chief Engineer for Maintenance. “Our goal is to find safer methods of debris removal that protect both our employees and the public. The Lane Blade allows us to do just that by keeping our crews inside their vehicles while effectively clearing the roads.”
Expanding Arkansas’ Fleet of Lane Blades
The $1 million grant will enable ARDOT to acquire 20 to 25 additional Lane Blade devices, adding to the 18 currently in use. This expansion will make Arkansas the leading state in the U.S. for Lane Blade deployment, with coverage across every district.
By using Lane Blades, ARDOT aims to not only protect workers and motorists but also to minimize the risk of accidents caused by roadway debris. “By removing debris swiftly and safely, we not only protect workers and motorists but also reduce the risk of crashes,” Frisbee emphasized.
National Recognition for Arkansas’ Innovation
ARDOT’s commitment to safety and innovation was praised by Director Lorie Tudor. “Safety is our number one priority at ARDOT; it’s at the foundation of everything we do,” Tudor stated. “I’m proud ARDOT’s innovation in this area was recognized by the U.S. Department of Transportation, and I’m proud that we will now be a leading state in debris removal using Lane Blades.”
This grant is a significant milestone for ARDOT as it continues to adopt innovative solutions that enhance public safety and operational efficiency. For more information about the Accelerated Innovation Deployment Demonstration Program, visit the U.S. Department of Transportation’s website. To see how the Lane Blade technology works, visit ARDOT’s page on Facebook.
