From guardrails to potholes, AI is becoming the new eyes on America’s roads

As the infrastructure of America’s roads deteriorates, cities and states are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence to identify hazards and prioritize repairs. In Hawaii, officials are distributing 1,000 dashboard cameras as part of an initiative aimed at combating a rise in traffic fatalities. These cameras harness AI technology to automate the inspection process for guardrails, road signs, and pavement markings, effectively distinguishing between minor issues and critical emergencies that require immediate attention. Richard Browning, chief commercial officer at Nextbase, the company behind the cameras, emphasized the efficiency of this approach. "This is not something where it’s looked at once a month and then they sit down and figure out where they’re going to put their vans," he stated. In San Jose, California, the city has reported remarkable success after equipping street sweepers with cameras that accurately identify potholes 97% of the time. This initiative is set to expand into parking enforcement vehicles, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing roadway safety. Meanwhile, Texas is implementing a comprehensive AI strategy that utilizes both cameras and volunteer driver data to improve safety on its expansive road network. The “Eyes on the Road” campaign in Hawaii allows local drivers to sign up for a free dashcam, valued at $499, to assist in monitoring road conditions. This program, which faced delays due to wildfires, aims to tackle the unique challenges posed by Hawaii’s aging infrastructure. Roger Chen, an associate professor at the University of Hawaii, highlighted the logistical issues, stating, "Equipment has to be shipped to the island, and there are both space and topography constraints." The technology not only tracks road debris and fading lane markings but is particularly effective in detecting damaged guardrails. Mark Pittman, CEO of Blyncsy, noted that the system analyzes guardrails daily, helping to mitigate the risks associated with neglected infrastructure. Hawaii's officials are acutely aware of the dangers posed by broken guardrails, as evidenced by a tragic incident last year that resulted in a $3.9 million settlement for a family whose loved one died after crashing into a damaged guardrail. With traffic fatalities in Hawaii climbing, the urgency of the dashboard program is evident. San Jose’s early successes in pothole and debris detection have prompted Mayor Matt Mahan to advocate for a shared AI database among cities, which would enhance the effectiveness of such initiatives. The potential for AI to recognize road issues from previous data is promising, as Mahan remarked, "It sees, ‘Oh, that actually is a cardboard box wedged between those two parked vehicles, and that counts as debris on a roadway.’" In addition to camera-based solutions, Massachusetts-based Cambridge Mobile Telematics has introduced a system named StreetVision, which analyzes cellphone data to identify risky driving behaviors and road conditions that contribute to accidents. This innovative approach led to the discovery of obstructed stop signs in D.C., demonstrating the practical impact of AI on infrastructure improvement. Texas officials have also employed StreetVision alongside other AI tools to address safety issues effectively. By scanning 250,000 lane miles to identify outdated street signs, they are leveraging technology to overcome the challenges posed by traditional data management systems. Experts believe that the advancements in AI for road safety are merely precursors to a future where driverless vehicles dominate the roads. Pittman predicts that within eight years, nearly every new vehicle will be equipped with cameras, emphasizing the need for transportation agencies to adapt to this evolving landscape. "This is really important nuance for departments of transportation and city agencies, as they begin to build infrastructure suitable for both human drivers and automated vehicles." The integration of AI into road safety initiatives signifies a pivotal shift in how America addresses its infrastructure challenges, paving the way for safer streets in the years to come.