Work Zone Weather Integration Act of 2025

## Summary The Work Zone Weather Integration Act of 2025 would direct the U.S. Secretary of Transportation to create a pilot program aimed at improving roadway safety by combining real-time weather hazard alerts (like those for storms, fog, or icy roads) with data about active construction zones. The goal is to help drivers avoid dangerous situations by providing timely, location-specific warnings through navigation tools (e.g., GPS apps, road signs). The program would test how effectively these systems can work together, evaluate their costs and safety benefits, and determine whether to expand them nationwide. Participating states could use existing federal transportation funds to support the effort. After three years, the Department of Transportation would report findings and recommendations to Congress. This bill seeks to address the risks drivers face when encountering sudden weather changes or unexpected work zones, which can lead to accidents and delays. By integrating data from the National Weather Service and state transportation agencies, it aims to create smarter alert systems that adapt to changing conditions. The pilot would involve collaboration between federal agencies, state departments of transportation, and private companies that provide traffic or navigation services. ## Key Points - Pilot Program Creation: Requires the Secretary of Transportation to establish a program that merges weather hazard alerts with active work zone data in real time. - Technical Development: Focuses on creating protocols to link National Weather Service alerts with work zone location/status data for use in driver warning systems. - State Participation: Mandates voluntary involvement from at least 5 states, including one rural state, with funding flexibility from existing federal transportation grants. - Multi-Agency Coordination: Involves the Federal Highway Administration, National Weather Service, NOAA, and private-sector companies (e.g., Google Maps, Waze) to ensure seamless integration. - Evaluation and Report: Requires a three-year assessment of the program’s effectiveness, costs, and safety outcomes, with recommendations for nationwide expansion. ## Impact Areas - Drivers and Road Users: Enhanced safety through real-time alerts about hazardous weather and work zones, reducing crash risks. - State Transportation Agencies: Opportunities to modernize infrastructure and improve incident response using integrated data systems. - Private Navigation Services: Partnerships with government to improve consumer-facing traffic and safety tools, potentially boosting public trust in their platforms. - National Road Safety Policy: Could set a precedent for standardized, tech-driven approaches to managing dynamic roadway risks. - Infrastructure Resilience: Addresses climate-related challenges by linking weather data to transportation planning and emergency preparedness.