The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has added a new Pathrunner data collection vehicle to its fleet, marking the first such acquisition in nearly two decades. The vehicle will be used by the bureaus of Research and Programming to gather detailed information about pavement conditions across Illinois.
John Senger, Bureau Chief of Research, described the Pathrunner as “a data collection vehicle. The Ford Transit chassis is equipped with a variety of different sensors to measure pavement performance and collect mobile LiDAR for assessing other IDOT assets.” He explained that this model includes “Pathway Service’s 3D Pass, a state-of-the-art transverse pavement profiler used to collect rutting and cracking data,” as well as an all-speed profile for smoothness metrics and sensors for measuring surface texture. The system also captures forward and rear images of roadways to aid analysts in reviewing collected data.
Currently, IDOT contracts with Pathway Services for annual pavement inventory data required by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). However, some sections cannot be assessed during spring and summer due to construction activity. Senger noted that IDOT staff will now use the Pathrunner to fill these gaps at year-end, helping meet federal requirements.
The department monitors many pavement sections annually to support design and lifecycle modeling. In previous years, consultants handled much of this work. With the new equipment, Senger said, “IDOT will reclaim the data collection efforts to maintain consistency with the FHWA collection process.”
Describing how it works, Senger stated: “The Ford Transit chassis is outfitted with several different sensors. Each sensor measures a different roadway feature or distress. All the data are recorded onboard and are frequently uploaded to specialized workstations used to process the data and prepare them for consumption.” Staff from both bureaus have received training on operating the vehicle and its software.
Senger emphasized that IDOT chose advanced sensor options: “IDOT ordered the most advanced set of sensors that are offered by the vendor. The department will be able to collect valid International Roughness Index data through almost any driving condition. We can collect our own LiDAR for other asset inventory.” He also highlighted new technology capable of predicting frictional characteristics—important for safety assessments: “Pavement friction is strongly related to safety, so being able to assess and identify areas with low friction on a network level is a huge step forward.”
The Pathrunner was delivered in November and is already operational statewide. It will be available not only for regular monitoring but also special requests as needed.
