Federal grant fuels anticipated ADOT drone usage

by Apache Junction Independent

A view of ADOT’s first drone being used near U.S. 60 in Gold Canyon in spring 2018. (Submitted photo)

The Arizona Department of Transportation is adding drones to help its engineering staff safely and more efficiently inspect hard-to-reach areas on some bridges and perform surveying work along state highways.

Through a federal innovative technology grant, ADOT has eight new aerial drones that will be part of the agency’s mission to enhance safety and efficiency while shortening highway project delivery time, according to a press release.