Motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians passing through the work zone at the Interstate 4 (I-4) and Sand Lake Road (State Road (S.R.) 482) interchange might notice a unique-looking piece of road equipment with an array of devices and wonder what it is and what it does. The Sand Lake Road project site is the newest home of one of the Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT’s) innovative, safety enhancing technologies.

The Advanced Work Zone Information (AWZI) trailer is now in operation just west of the I-4 overpass. The trailer, which features video cameras, audible sirens, remote configuration, and Connected Vehicle communication, works to keep both construction crews and passing motorists safer.

The trailer, operated remotely from the Regional Transportation Management Center (RTMC), can send information to FDOT about current conditions in active work zones, including lane closures or potential hazards to vehicles, via their connected in-vehicle systems. At the same time, sirens can be activated to inform non-connected vehicles and pedestrians of potential dangers.

The unit’s cameras are set up to detect vehicles entering the work zone, identify when pedestrians enter a potentially unsafe area, and help to deter theft. The sirens and strobe flashes alert both the construction crew and anyone passing by of potential dangers and what type of situation the AWZI trailer has identified.

All the systems of the unit, powered by an array of solar panels, work together to help workers, motorists, and pedestrians safely traverse the work zone.

Previously, the AWZI trailer has been deployed on the Wekiva Parkway construction project and on S.R. 46 in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian. FDOT leaders are pleased with the unit’s ability to provide safer work zones.