MnDOT Tests New Snowplow Technology In Northfield Area

NORTHFIELD, MN — The Minnesota Department of Transportation will test new snowplow technology on Interstate 35 in the Northfield area. The tool will activate digital highway signs to warn motorists when slow-moving state vehicles are ahead on the road.

The aim is to let drivers know when they're quickly approaching a snowplow or other state maintenance vehicle.

According to the department:

— Ten MnDOT snowplows on I-35 — from Iowa to Northfield — were outfitted with technology to activate digital message signs as they pass.

— During snow events, signs notify drivers: "Snowplow ahead, use caution."

— During non-snow conditions, the message alerts: "Maintenance vehicle ahead, use caution." The message stays activated for several minutes after the MnDOT vehicles pass.

Transit officials note that snowplows can create "snow clouds" when clearing roads at slower speeds, and data shows that many crashes involving snowplows were rear-enders.

MnDOT hopes the new warning system can reduce and prevent these types of crashes in the future.

"Alerting motorists that they’re approaching a slow-moving snowplow can improve safety for our operators and motorists," said Ron Heim, MnDOT maintenance supervisor in Owatonna, in a news release.

"MnDOT is focused on safety and we think this use of technology will help everyone on the road."