ODOT Proposes Variable Speed Limits for I-670

If you’ve recently taken a long road trip down the east coast, you’ll have noticed that a lot of states are now using variable speed limits — or rather speed limit signs that digitally change depending on the congestion of traffic and time of day.

For Ohio, variable speed limits might be a reality as soon as next year. Ohio Department of Transportation Director, Jerry Wray told the Columbus Dispatch that variable speed limits would reduce traffic congestion and increase the amount of commuters able to get on the highway by 30 percent.

If the city approves enough budget funding for ODOT by next summer, it would give them the wiggle room to test out variable speeds in addition to including the shoulder as an extra lane during high traffic.

If the idea is approved as part of the $45 million budget announced for autonomous vehicle research, ODOT could conduct studies and variable speed limits could be implemented by 2018.

What do you think about changing speed limits on I-670? Sound off in the comments below!

BROUGHT TO YOU BY