What Is The Work Zone Data Exchange (WZDx)?
Launched by the US DOT/FHWA in 2020, the WZDx is a data-sharing specification. It’s a standard vocabulary and format in which real-time work zone data is collected and published. Its purpose? To improve road safety and mobility by making work zone data widely accessible in a consistent language and structure.
Example
A work zone is planned on a stretch of road and a lane will be removed, speed will be reduced, and an exit ramp closed. One day, equipment is deployed at the planned location. Automatically, a system will publish that the work zone is now active based on the presence of workers, and reduced speeds on digital sped limit units installed on the job.
Mapping companies will read that information and automatically update their map to reflect the closed ramp and reduce speed limits. From that moment on, connected vehicle routing applications will use alternate roads, as they been informed that the ramp is closed. All this is possible with the WZDx.
Ver-Mac Equipment and the WZDx
Ver-Mac’s connected field hardware collects and distributes information in a format that is already compatible with the latest WZDx formats. Due to Ver-Mac’s active involvement in several WZDx subgroups, we are always up to speed on proposed changes and ensuring our equipment is compliant.
Arrow Boards
Location & arrow pattern display
Camera Trailers
Location & URL for latest still image
Portable Message Signs
Location & current message
Flashing Beacons
Location, application, message & flasher status (ON/OFF)
Hybrid Signs
Static text with dynamic LED message display
Location Markers
Critical GPS location markers
Traffic Sensors
Location & traffic data over interval
Worker Presence Connected Vest
Indicates if workers are present on the site
What Are the Benefits of Using the Work Zone Data Exchange?
First and foremost, there is a need to increase road safety and driver awareness approaching and through work zones for both workers and motorists. In 2021, 106K work zone crashes were recorded in the US, with a total of 956 work zone fatalities. And any incident is one too many.
Navigation systems, connected vehicles, and other third parties
The Work Zone Data Exchange makes it easier for third party navigation systems such as Waze, and connected vehicles like Tesla, to access standard information allowing them to communicate potential traffic hazards to motorists.
This helps make work zones more secure by informing motorists BEFORE they reach a work zone. Drivers can be made aware of the presence of work zones, reduced speed limits, active lane closures and the presence of workers. This enables motorists to be alert, prepared ahead of time and adjust their driving accordingly.
Departments of Transportation
By receiving a standardized data feed, DOTs receive the same descriptions and information for all connected work zones and road events.
Normalized quality data makes it easier to analyze, sort, and interpret work zone Information such as planned projects and their impacts. It provides a real-time picture of what is happening in road work zones.
It saves time and reduces the need to deal with multiple database formats and change information. The integration of this critical real-time information can help automate historically manual input processes, freeing traffic management staff for other important activities.
Other relevant third parties
Content from the WZDx can also be used by Smart Work Zone clients, government agencies, barricade companies, fleet operators, advanced traffic management software, and more to help make roads safer.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Work Zone Data Exchange
How do I make sure my work zone data in collected according to the WZDx standard?
In your equipment requirement, specify that you want your connected unit to push data in the WZDx format. Your Ver-Mac connected equipment will then push data in that format.
How can I access data from the WZDx?
Departments of Transportation (DOTs), companies and other third parties can pull data from the WZDx feeds through in-house IT solutions. An information architect needs to set up a system to access the feed’s information.
Who can benefit from the WZDx?
DOTs, government agencies, barricade companies, smart work zone operators, navigation companies, motorists, and more.
Where can I find more details on the Work Zone Data Exchange?
You can find more information on the WZDx here. You can see the current version of the standard and suggest enhancements to the within the community.
How do I get my organization more involved?
The 4.2 version of the WZDx has been available since 2022. In 2023, the specification is in transition to become a standard under the governance of the ITE. For more information, please visit the ITE website.