ODOT Deploys the Latest Drone Technology on Transformational Construction Project

DriveOhio’s Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) Center is leading the country in drone innovation, which is transforming how we build, inspect, and maintain our roads and bridges. The latest technology, drone-in-a-box systems, has been deployed to support the largest construction project in ODOT history, the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor project – and it all happens at the push of a button.

With two permanent docks on the roof of Longworth Hall in Cincinnati, ODOT pilots can launch the drones remotely and instantly connect the project team with real-time visuals for construction project tracking, bridge inspection, and traffic insights. When the mission’s complete, the drone autonomously navigates back to its dock to charge up for the next flight.

This innovative solution is a force multiplier, expanding ODOT’s operational footprint by increasing efficiency, accelerating decision-making, and enhancing safety. Watch the video at the link below to learn more and see it in action.

Watch Video: Drive Ohio

Kim Stevens

Kim Stevens is the publisher of State Aviation Journal, which he founded in 2009. A longtime commercial-rated pilot, he was introduced to state aviation in 1992 as Director of the Nebraska Department of Aeronautics, later serving as Deputy Division Director for the Arizona Department of Transportation's Aeronautics Division. From 2013 to 2018, he was Director of Communications and Operations for the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) in Washington, D.C. Relocating to North Carolina, Kim worked for the Raleigh-Durham International Airport for two years and now concentrates solely on the Journal. Prior to his aviation career, Kim spent a decade in the newspaper and magazine business.