Advancing Winter Road Maintenance Systems with Data Intelligence and Analytics

Canadian cold-weather cities face increasingly complex challenges and demands in winter transportation management, driven by climate change, expanding infrastructure networks, budgetary constraints, and the need to ensure safety and accessibility for vulnerable road users such as cyclists and individuals with mobility issues. This three-year project, in partnership with the City of Edmonton's Parks and Roads Services branch, seeks to transform Edmonton's Snow and Ice Control (SNIC) program through an integrated approach that addresses four critical areas: hazardous road condition monitoring, strategic planning of road weather information systems (RWIS), climate-resilient infrastructure, and equitable winter transportation accessibility.

Key deliverables include operationally implementable tools such as an AI-powered road condition monitoring application, a strategic RWIS deployment plan, and an accessibility map for non-auto winter transportation. These innovations aim to enhance the efficiency, safety, and equity of Edmonton's winter transportation network, positioning the city as a leader in resilient urban winter management while providing scalable solutions for other Canadian municipalities. The project will generate social, economic, and environmental benefits, including reduced weather-related traffic accidents and congestion, optimized resource allocation, minimized maintenance costs, climate-resilient infrastructure, and more inclusive and accessible services for all Canadians.