Massachusetts Department of Transportation to Add 15 Weigh-in-Motion Stations
The Massachusetts Department of Transportation announced a partnership with Canadian technology company Quarterhill, investing $6.4 million to add 15 weigh-in-motion stations along multiple major interstate highways and state roads, along with the deployment of a commercial vehicle compliance software platform. This initiative will nearly triple the number of weigh-in-motion stations in the state from the current six, covering Districts 1 through 5 of the department, aiming to improve road safety, enhance freight data collection, and advance infrastructure modernization.
Quick Overview
- The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is expanding its Weigh-in-Motion (WIM) program to enhance road safety, strengthen freight data collection, and advance statewide infrastructure modernization, according to a press release issued on March 5.
- The agency will partner with Canadian technology company Quarterhill to invest $6.4 million in installing 15 weigh-in-motion stations and launching a commercial vehicle compliance software platform.
- The project will involve Interstates 84, 90, 91, 93, 95, 195, 290, 295, 395, and 495, as well as State Routes 3, 24, and 146.
In-Depth Analysis
Weigh-in-motion stations can collect real-time data on commercial vehicles' weight, speed, and height while they travel at highway speeds. These systems help enforcement agencies identify overweight or non-compliant trucks that could damage roadways, while allowing compliant vehicles to continue without stopping.
Currently, Massachusetts operates 6 weigh-in-motion stations (according to MassDOT data, excluding two stations at the borders with Rhode Island and Connecticut). This project will nearly triple the number of stations and extend monitoring coverage to MassDOT Districts 1 through 5.
Quarterhill stated in the press release that these stations will be equipped with vehicle identification systems, tire anomaly detection, and other roadside devices, aimed at improving enforcement and freight data collection capabilities.
"As freight volumes increase, transportation agencies are prioritizing investment in advanced roadside intelligence technologies to obtain real-time, accurate vehicle data solutions," said Chuck Myers, CEO of Quarterhill, in the press release.
Under the agreement, Quarterhill will also provide calibration, testing, training, and maintenance services for the systems. MassDOT is installing 15 weigh-in-motion stations statewide to enhance safety and modernize infrastructure.
The company has collaborated with multiple transportation agencies across North America to deploy intelligent infrastructure. In October of last year, the Arkansas Department of Transportation and the State Highway Police announced a similar weigh-in-motion project with Quarterhill. Later that same month, the Washington State Department of Transportation also announced a $2.3 million project with the company to deploy technology helping truck drivers find available parking spaces along Interstate 5.