The Texas Department of Transportation and the Oklahoma Department of Transportation have implemented a bi-state data sharing agreement designed to enhance traffic operations, improve traveler information and strengthen coordination across state lines, TxDOT announced in a June 29 news release.
The agreement allows real-time, system-to-system exchange of transportation data along key corridors connecting the two states. According to the release, the arrangement marks a step forward in regional collaboration and in the intelligent transportation systems both agencies use to manage traffic and respond to incidents along shared routes.
“This partnership demonstrates what is possible when states work together to deliver better outcomes for the traveling public,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said in the release. “By sharing data across state lines, we are improving situational awareness, supporting faster response to incidents, and providing more reliable travel information.”
Oklahoma Secretary of Transportation Tim Gatz said the collaboration “lays the foundation for a more connected and resilient transportation network across our region.” U.S. Department of Transportation Assistant Secretary Seval Oz said the effort aligns with the federal National Digital Corridors Initiative and offers “a strong example for how collaboration and technology can deliver smarter infrastructure and more consistent traveler experiences nationwide.”
The agencies are sharing a broad set of data through a center-to-center connection, according to the release, including traffic camera imagery, incident reports such as crashes and stalled vehicles, dynamic message sign status, traffic flow and travel-time data, lane closure and work zone information, and environmental sensor data. Each agency can integrate and visualize the shared information within its own traffic management system.
According to the release, the agreement was implemented in time to support increased travel demand during the World Cup, which TxDOT said demonstrated both agencies’ ability to rapidly deploy coordinated solutions. The agency said it is exploring future enhancements, including truck parking availability, freight corridor routing, special event coordination and emergency evacuation route data, as the partnership evolves.