KDOT created new, innovative methods of data-sharing (CarPlay/Android Auto Integration and Alexa Home Speaker Integration, public incident reporting by voice and One Touch, roadway weather data-sharing, etc.) through traveler information dissemination mechanisms (e.g., KanDrive mobile app).
Traveler Information
New 511 Feature to Track and Display Oversized Loads
KDOT is adding a feature to their 511 traveler information system that is tied to their oversize/overweight system to track and display oversized loads. It is used to notify law enforcement and motorists.
Waze Reports Added as a Layer on the Iowa DOT 511 Website
Waze reports on Iowa DOT’s traveler information website are labeled as citizen updates, reported by Waze, on their own layer and in the map legend. Waze has been a valuable resource to Iowa DOT for both traveler information and operations in more populated areas, but may not be as valuable in less populated areas with fewer Waze reports.
Location of Electric Vehicle Charge Stations
Electric vehicle charge station locations near a user’s searched route are provided. The locations are also provided as a layer on the Iowa DOT traveler information map. The data is provided by the National Renewable Energy Library that provides an open-source Application Programming Interface (API).
Mashup Up Traveler Information Data to Tell a Story
Iowa DOT uses mashup data on the map (e.g., construction, winter) to help tell a traffic story so users can make better decisions.
Traveler Information Icon Color Change Based on Work Zone Data Exchange (WZDx)
Iowa DOT uses connected arrow boards to automatically report when lane closures are in effect in work zones (which is also an indication when workers are present). The connected arrow board indication is used to update the WZDx feed and Iowa DOT’S traveler information system which uses this information to update the icon color that is displayed on the Iowa DOT 511 website based on if the connected arrow board is on or off. There is a verified checkmark when the connected arrow board is turned on.