Quick Overview

  • The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) announced the expansion of its Weigh-in-Motion (WIM) program to enhance road safety, increase 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 installations on Interstates 84, 90, 91, 93, 95, 195, 290, 295, 395, and 495, as well as on state routes 3, 24, and 146.

In-Depth Analysis

Weigh-in-motion stations can capture real-time weight, speed, and height data of commercial vehicles as they travel at highway speeds. These systems help law enforcement identify overweight or non-compliant trucks (which can damage road surfaces) while allowing compliant vehicles to continue without stopping.

Currently, Massachusetts operates six weigh-in-motion stations, according to the department, not including 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.

In the press release, Quarterhill stated that the stations will be equipped with vehicle identification systems, tire anomaly detection, and other roadside devices aimed at improving enforcement and freight data collection.

"With increasing freight volumes, transportation agencies are prioritizing investments 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 system. 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. Last October, the Arkansas Department of Transportation and State Police announced a similar weigh-in-motion project with Quarterhill. Later that same month, the Washington State Department of Transportation also unveiled a $2.3 million project with the company aimed at deploying technology to help truck drivers find available parking along Interstate 5.