FAQ
What is UDOT Traffic?
UDOT Traffic is an Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) that uses technology to save lives, time, and money. It is a computer-controlled system designed to monitor and manage traffic flow on freeways and surface streets. System components include closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras, electronic variable message signs (VMS), the UDOT Traffic Travel Information Line, coordinated traffic signals, ramp meters, traffic speed and volume sensors, pavement sensors, and weather sensors.
Where can I get traveler info?
- By using the UDOT Traffic App.
- From the UDOT Traffic website.
- From the UDOT Traffic Twitter page.
- Dialing 511 on your telephone.
- Selecting UDOT Traffic Alerts, from your profile page.
How does UDOT Traffic work?
Using closed-circuit TV cameras, traffic and weather sensors, coordinated traffic signals, and ramp meters, operators in the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) Traffic Operation Center (TOC) monitor and manage traffic flow on surface streets and freeways. The UDOT TOC is connected to smaller Traffic Control Centers (TCCs) in Salt Lake City and Salt Lake County, as well as UTA's three Radio Control Centers. All these agencies work together to improve travel along the Wasatch Front. The traffic, weather, and accident information collected at the TOC is communicated to Utah travelers via the UDOT Traffic Travel Information Line, electronic roadway signs, radio, television, and the Internet. This information helps travelers "Know Before They Go" and allows them to make informed transportation decisions.
How did UDOT Traffic begin?
As Utah continues to grow, so does the challenge of mobility. In 1995, the Utah Senate passed Senate Bill 1995-12, which addressed Utah's transportation challenges by establishing a Traffic Management Committee to work with UDOT in implementing Traffic Management Systems on state highways. The Traffic Management Committee (TMC) consists of representatives from Salt Lake City, UDOT, Wasatch Front Regional Council, Mountainland Association of Governments, Salt Lake County, the Department of Public Safety, and the Utah Department of Air Quality. This committee recognized the benefits of using an Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) to manage traffic flow and improve the efficiency of existing roads. The Utah Transit Authority and the Federal Highway Administration also partnered with the TMC as additional ITS possibilities were explored. UDOT Traffic is made possible through the cooperation of these public agencies.
Why does Utah need UDOT Traffic?
UDOT Traffic has already improved the safety and efficiency of transportation all along the Wasatch Front. Many Utah cities and towns are experiencing significant population growth, with the accompanying traffic congestion and economic impacts. UDOT Traffic is a cost-effective and efficient solution to help relieve congestion on roads and highways. Although UDOT Traffic doesn't mean we will never need to build additional roads, it represents a transportation solution that allows the maximum efficiency on existing roads.
Will UDOT Traffic save me money? If so, how are cost savings measured?
Yes, in only its first few years of operation, UDOT Traffic has already saved Utahns time and money. By increasing peak-hour freeway speeds while reducing freeway delays, traffic signal stops, and intersection delays, UDOT Traffic is projected to save Utahns more than $100 million each year.
How does UDOT Traffic enhance safety?
By reducing congestion, UDOT Traffic helps decrease the number of accidents that occur. When accidents do occur, UDOT Traffic helps emergency personnel quickly identify, respond to, and clear the accident. These highly trained personnel include UDOT's Incident Management Team members who help stranded motorists and assist the highway patrol in managing traffic around accidents.
Will the camera footage be recorded and saved?
As a general rule, camera footage will not be recorded and saved. Some occasional camera footage may be recorded strictly for training purposes. This footage will be used to analyze and improve responses to future roadway incidents.
How can I find out if there is a transportation problem along my route?
One of the most important features of UDOT Traffic is its ability to give Utahns valuable real-time transportation information. The transportation, weather, and accident information constantly gathered at the TOC is communicated to Utah travelers via the UDOT Traffic Travel Information Line, radio, television, the Internet, the UDOT App, the UDOT Twitter page and electronic message signs along the roadways.