JULY- 2023BUSINESSMANAGEMENTREVIEW.COM8SMARTER TRAFFIC CONTROL STARTS WITH PROTECTING PEOPLEAs our country faces mounting infrastructure challenges, we are reminded of the importance of safe work zones. Increasing construction activity increases the risk of injury to protectors, road crews, and motorists.After years of decline due to the global pandemic and a slowdown in public works projects, the global traffic management systems market is rebounding strongly and projected to reach $3,965.1 million by 2028, from $2,140 million in 2021, at a CAGR of 9.1% through 2028. China is the largest market with a share of about 40%, followed by North America and Europe having a total share of about 30%.Infrastructure spending in the U.S. is likely to accelerate sharply in the coming year as federal agencies build out logistical frameworks for new programs. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act signed into law in 2021 includes billions in spending tomodernize our roads, bridges, railroads, ports, airports, broadband, electric grids, water systems, and more. What it means is a dizzying array of public works projects over decades that will require the watchful eye of trained protectors to help ensure safety.TECHNOLOGY MEETS TRAFFIC CONTROLArea Wide Protective (AWP) has a mission to make all roads safer with 144 locations providing traffic control services across 28 states and four Canadian provinces. As the leader in dispatching highly trained traffic control personnel to protect work zones, we know the urgent demand for these critical services.Increasingly, municipalities are requiring people that are truly qualified to conduct traffic management in work zones, including engineer-approved plans for how management will function for the duration of a project. AWP directly supports these efforts and is constantly exploring ways to extend the benefits of safer, smarter traffic control.Today we are proud to champion enhanced technologies that deliver improved traffic outcomes. Technologies that can reduce traffic flow into work zones in turn reduce the risk of injury to protectors and the public. Fewer incidents within work zones also mean fewer legal issues to contend with for all parties involved.We see a future where technology increases safety and reduces cost. Many cities are now implementing smarter traffic management techniques across their road networks. Similarly, digitized solutions can safeguard work zones while keeping protectors out of harm's way. MORE THAN A FADPerhaps most impactful to the future of traffic control are Automated Flagging Assistance Devices (AFADs) that allow protectors to perform their duties while standing clear of the action. Many AFAD units can be operated by one or two traffic management personnel via remote control from a safe location. By Josh Shipman, Chief Revenue Officer, Area Wide ProtectivePROTECTING PEOPLE WITH TECHNOLOGYJosh Shipman
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