During the last 30 years, many State highway agencies have installed ice detection and highway weather information systems. Early evaluations mainly addressed performance of the system equipment rather than its usefulness, effects on highway safety, or cost-saving aspects. This project was initiated to address that need.

This project was initiated in 1988 as Special Experimental Project 13 to encourage (and financially support) State highway agencies to evaluate and clearly document the usefulness of ice detection and highway weather information systems. The focus was on maintaining highway safety during winter weather, and reducing de-icing chemical needs and maintenance personnel costs for snow and ice control.

Seven States and the National Park Service participated. The evidence obtained thus far indicates that, with "real time" information, crews can be called in and released in a much more efficient manner. Reduction in personnel, material, and/or equipment usage during winter maintenance can be realized. The safety of the traveling public will be enhanced because maintenance crews have better knowledge of actual conditions and can respond accordingly. Operational planning is also enhanced concomitant with pavement condition predictive services.

Data collection for the evaluation was concluded after the 1990-1991 winter season.was the last year State data was compiled for evaluation. The project summary report was distributed to the field in July 1993.

Ice Detection and Highway Weather Information Systems (FHWA-SA-93-053). Copies are available from the Research and Technology Report Center.

Manual of Practice for an Effective Anti-icing Program: A Guide For Highway Winter Maintenance Personnel (FHWA-RD-95-202).

---

HIGHWAYTECHNET   VIRTUAL EXPO   SAFETY INDEX

---

U.S. Department of Transportation
Federal Highway Administration