TxDOT unveils strategic plan to leverage AI for safer roads and enhanced mobility across Texas

Austin, Texas – Amid an ever-changing digital landscape, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has embraced artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize roadway safety and mobility throughout the state. This significant step forward is outlined in TxDOT’s recently released Artificial Intelligence Strategic Plan, which focuses on utilizing AI to enhance processes, improve safety, and responsibly manage transportation investments.

Pioneering AI for Safer Roads

“TxDOT is committed to staying at the forefront of technological advancements, and AI offers tremendous potential to improve safety and streamline operations,” said Marc Williams, TxDOT Executive Director. “By utilizing AI in a secure and responsible manner, we are revolutionizing the way we monitor and manage traffic, detect incidents in real-time, and streamline how we work to help get projects delivered more efficiently.”

The strategic plan identifies 230 potential AI use cases, developed by TxDOT engineers, IT professionals, planners, and other employees. These use cases aim to reshape operations over the next three years by focusing on safety and innovation.

Key Focus Areas of the AI Strategic Plan

The plan highlights five critical focus areas for incorporating AI into TxDOT’s operations:

• Optimizing Infrastructure: AI will enhance the efficiency and resilience of Texas’ vast transportation network.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Advanced AI-enabled analytics will empower staff to make more informed decisions regarding roadway maintenance and operations.
• Enhancing Stakeholder Experience: AI will provide real-world solutions, improving services for employees, partners, and the traveling public.
• Unlocking Workforce Potential: By automating routine tasks, AI will allow employees to concentrate on high-value work and foster innovation.
• Ensuring Security: TxDOT will integrate robust security measures and data privacy safeguards to protect AI systems, ensuring human oversight at every stage.

“These initiatives are a testament to our commitment to innovation and safety,” said Darran Anderson, TxDOT Director of Strategy and Innovation. “By embracing AI and other advanced technologies, we are improving the efficiency of our operations while making Texas’ transportation system safer and more resilient.”

Building a Secure AI Framework

The AI Implementation Roadmap included in the Strategic Plan emphasizes responsible adoption of AI, with a focus on governance, transparency, and adherence to the highest ethical and security standards. Key measures include:

• Governance and Accountability: The roadmap emphasizes human accountability and oversight for all AI applications.
• Security and Data Privacy: TxDOT has created an Acceptable Use of Artificial Intelligence Policy and established an AI Risk Management Workgroup to monitor and mitigate potential risks.
• Workforce Training: Employees will receive training to better understand and implement AI-enabled tools and analytics.

“Incorporating AI into our IT infrastructure allows us to not only drive innovation but also prioritize transparency, security, and roadway safety,” said Anh Selissen, TxDOT Chief Information Officer. “By leveraging AI, we can enhance the efficiency of our business processes and transportation systems while ensuring that the solutions we deploy are secure, transparent, and designed to increase the safety of the traveling public.”

Leading the Nation in Roadway Innovation

TxDOT’s AI initiatives position Texas as a leader in transportation technology, paving the way for safer roads and more efficient mobility solutions. The agency remains committed to collaborating with technology partners and stakeholders to explore additional applications of AI. By doing so, TxDOT aims to further enhance operations, improve safety, and deliver innovative services that benefit both the department and the public.

As AI continues to evolve, TxDOT’s forward-thinking approach demonstrates its commitment to ensuring that Texas remains at the cutting edge of transportation innovation, serving as a model for other states across the nation.