Coordinating with the Arizona Commerce Authority, the Arizona DOT (ADOT) is exploring partnerships that would lead to the development of fiber optic infrastructure across Arizona.
The goal is to create more affordable opportunities for wired and wireless broadband connectivity in rural communities. ADOT is requesting input to inform potential public-private partnerships to install and/or operate broadband conduit along major interstate and highway routes.
ADOT says it encourages firms and other stakeholders to respond with information that would lead to a successful future request for proposal to expand connectivity along key interstate and state highway routes.
“Expanding fiber optic connectivity along these corridors makes our highways safer and smarter while offering the potential for partners to help make rural Arizona a better place to live and do business,” ADOT Director John Halikowski said in a statement.
In addition to the benefits to rural broadband connectivity, ADOT plans to use the fiber to provide “smart highway” technology such as overhead message boards, traffic cameras, weather stations, and wrong-way driving detection technology. The infrastructure also will help lay the groundwork for emerging technology such as connected and automated vehicles, according to ADOT.
ADOT already has fiber optic conduit along freeways in the Phoenix and Tucson areas, as well as a stretch of I-10 near Eloy for a pilot dust detection and warning system.
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SOURCE: Arizona DOT
