NYS Thruway Authority Awarded $14.8M for Inspection Drones
Grant to Expand Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Program
The New York State Thruway Authority has been awarded over $14.8 million by the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) to expand its inspection drone program. The grant will be used to further develop the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) program, which uses drones to inspect bridges and other infrastructure across the state’s 570-mile Thruway network.
Improving Inspection Efficiency and Capabilities
The UAS program was originally launched in 2021 with the goal of enhancing inspection efficiency and capabilities through improved employee safety and reduced traffic delays and pollution. The program has already shown significant improvements in data collection and processing for inspection reports, resulting in decreased lane closures, improved worker and motorist safety, and reduced pollution, traffic delays, and stress on roadway personnel.
Stage 2 Funding to Expand UAS Technology
The latest funding, awarded through the USDOT’s Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation (SMART) Grants Program, falls under stage two of the program. This funding will be used to expand the UAS technology further across the state and to other state agencies. The Thruway Authority was also awarded $1.5 million in 2023 as part of stage one of the program.
Expected Savings and Benefits
The Thruway Authority expects the expanded UAS program to save more than $38 million annually. The program will also benefit both the Authority and its motorists by making traditional inspection practices more efficient, safer, and cost-effective.
Quote from Thruway Authority Executive Director
“I want to thank our partners at the U.S. Department of Transportation for recognizing the Thruway Authority’s UAS inspection drone program and the significant advantages it brings to improving the safety of our employees and the hundreds of millions of drivers who utilize the Thruway system each year,” said Thruway Authority Executive Director Frank G. Hoare.
Conclusion
The Thruway Authority’s UAS program has already shown significant improvements in inspection efficiency and capabilities, and the latest funding will enable the Authority to further expand and develop the program. The expected savings and benefits of the program will be a welcome addition to the Authority’s efforts to improve the safety and efficiency of its operations.
FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of the Thruway Authority’s UAS program?
A: The UAS program uses drones to inspect bridges and other infrastructure across the state’s 570-mile Thruway network, with the goal of enhancing inspection efficiency and capabilities through improved employee safety and reduced traffic delays and pollution.
Q: What is the expected savings of the expanded UAS program?
A: The Thruway Authority expects the expanded UAS program to save more than $38 million annually.
Q: What is the SMART Grants Program?
A: The SMART Grants Program is a two-stage program administered by the United States Department of Transportation, which provides funding for projects that aim to improve the safety and efficiency of transportation systems.
