Dust storms have contributed to a number of multi-vehicle traffic accidents on I-8 and I-10 in Arizona. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has previously used a variety of methods to communicate information about these dust storms to motorists, and has recently implemented a pilot dust monitoring system on a 26-mile stretch of I-10. ADOT seeks to identify the most effective means for acquiring data about windblown dust events, and communicating information about these events to the public.

Through this project, Sonoma Technology, Inc (lead agency) and WTI (partner) will evaluate ADOT’s previous dust monitoring and warning systems, assess similar systems being used by other states, and provide actionable recommendations to ADOT for windblown dust detection and communication. WTI will assist with all tasks, but will primarily assist with the review of current practices.