Amid a rapidly evolving digital landscape, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance road safety and mobility across Texas. The agency has released its Artificial Intelligence Strategic Plan, marking a significant step toward improving processes, policies, and management of transportation investments through AI.
"TxDOT is committed to staying at the forefront of technological advancements, and AI offers tremendous potential to improve safety and streamline operations," said TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams. "By utilizing AI in a secure and responsible manner, we are revolutionizing the way we monitor and manage traffic, detect incidents in real time, and streamline how we work to help get projects delivered more efficiently."
The plan identifies 230 potential AI-use cases that will guide the department over the next three years. It was developed with input from engineers, IT experts, planners, and other employees across the state. The plan also includes recommendations for enhancing data quality and training employees on AI.
"These initiatives are a testament to our commitment to innovation and safety," said TxDOT Director of Strategy and Innovation Darran Anderson. "By embracing AI and other advanced technologies, we are improving the efficiency of our operations while making Texas' transportation system safer and more resilient."
Key focus areas of the plan include optimizing infrastructure, data-driven decision-making, enhancing stakeholder experience, unlocking workforce potential by reducing routine tasks through AI, and ensuring security with data privacy safeguards.
The AI Implementation Roadmap outlines a structured approach to adopting AI responsibly. It emphasizes governance, transparency, human accountability, ethical standards, security measures, and data privacy. TxDOT has developed an Acceptable Use of Artificial Intelligence Policy and established an AI Risk Management Workgroup to manage risks associated with AI systems.
"Incorporating AI into our IT infrastructure allows us to not only drive innovation but also prioritize transparency, security, and roadway safety," said Chief Information Officer Anh Selissen. "By leveraging AI, we can enhance the efficiency of our business processes and transportation systems while ensuring that the solutions we deploy are secure."
As technology evolves, TxDOT remains committed to expanding its application responsibly across all areas of transportation management. The agency aims to position Texas as a national leader in roadway safety by collaborating with technology partners to explore new AI applications.
