New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) Leads the Nation in UAS Implementation
In a groundbreaking move towards modernizing transportation practices, the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) has emerged as a national leader in the utilization of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), or drones. Even prior to the initiation of the Federal UAS program, called Every Day Counts-5 (EDC-5), the NJDOT had embarked on a journey marked by innovation and progress.
Lots of other state DOTs have UAS programs with more funding, resources, and staff but NJDOT’s program has been more successful because of our drive, determination, our champions, and relationships.
Source: Glenn Stott, Program Manager, NJDOT Aeronautics & UAS
Table of Contents
With the establishment of a dedicated drone program and the appointment of a seasoned UAS Coordinator in Aeronautics, the NJDOT has not only embraced drone technology but institutionalized it as a standard practice. This pioneering approach has unlocked a multitude of applications, from precise surveying to incident response, revolutionizing how the department approaches transportation in the Garden State.
Video Credit: NJDOT Technology Transfer
What is the NJDOT Drone Program?
The stated mission of the NJDOT is to provide a safe, reliable and efficient multi-modal transportation network which serves the mobility needs of residents, commerce and visitors in a manner that promotes economic development and ensures environmental responsibility.
The Unmanned Aerial Systems program in the NJDOT falls within the Bureau of Aeronautics and works towards their stated mission. The UAS initiative exemplifies the transformative potential of integrating drone technology while at the same time achieving the department’s stated objectives:
- Enhancing Safety
- Boosting Efficiency
- Reducing Time Constraints
- Cutting Costs
By replacing traditional ground-based methods, drones are proving to be extremely precise while making the data collecting process much faster. Drones also allow access to otherwise challenging terrains across various divisions within the Department.
Related Article – How Drones Will Help Rebuild America’s Failing Infrastructure
Drone Photo of New Jersey Turnpike
The Division of Multimodal Services, which established the dedicated drone program, appointed a seasoned professional in aeronautics, Glenn Stott, as the UAS Coordinator. This was a strategic move to ensure the NJDOT was well-prepared to harness the potential of drone technology for the betterment of the Garden State.
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Drone Photo of I-295/I-76/Route 42 Direct Connection Construction
Applications and Benefits for the NJDOT
The NJDOT’s adoption of UAS technology has changed the transportation landscape, introducing a myriad of applications and benefits:
- Providing High-Quality Survey and Data Mapping: Gone are the days of conventional survey methods. NJDOT’s drones now undertake high-precision surveys and data mapping, offering a level of accuracy and efficiency that was previously unattainable.
- Supplementing Conventional Activities: The integration of drones supplements traditional practices that are still in place, augmenting the capabilities of NJDOT personnel. This includes improved data collection, enhanced safety measures, and a more comprehensive understanding of project landscapes and terrain.
- Improving Operations, Construction, Inspection, and Safety: Drones have become an invaluable tool in the day-to-day operations of the NJDOT. Drones now collect critical data required for designing, building, and maintaining the highway system. This data not only streamlines operations but also enhances safety and construction practices.
Eyes-in-the-Sky during Incident Responses: During critical incidents, the NJDOT relies on drones to provide real-time aerial perspectives. This invaluable vantage point aids in swift and effective decision-making, ensuring a rapid response to emergencies on the transportation network.
Video Credit: NJDOT Technology Transfer
The Future of NJDOT’s UAS Program
Looking ahead under the banner of EDC-5, NJDOT envisions a future where UAS technology is seamlessly integrated into all aspects of their operations. Led by Brandee Sullivan at the NJDOT, the department has secured a significant STIC Incentive Funding grant, earmarked for investments in equipment and training. This funding will go towards various ambitious use cases such as:
- Survey Rendering of 3-D Models
- Construction Project Management
- Identifying Potholes and Longitudinal Joint Separations
- Enhanced Thermal Imaging Capabilities
The innovations of the program will find new applications in a multitude of areas, from watershed resiliency to wildlife conservation efforts like bat counts under bridges, concrete bridge inspections, and paving project management.
As NJDOT’s UAS Program continues to evolve and grow, the integration of drone technology promises a future marked by safer, more efficient, and technologically advanced transportation practices. Through strategic investments and a forward-looking approach, the NJDOT program is positioned to lead the way in UAS implementation.
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What's included in the PDF...
The complete step-by-step beginners roadmap for infrastructure inspections
Crucial factors of success when implementing a drone program
The game-changing advantages of utilizing drones for inspections
