Utah to Implement Advanced Lidar Traffic Detection System With Econolite and Ouster

The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) has selected Econolite, an expert in traffic management solutions, to deploy an advanced lidar-based traffic signal detection system across the state. The project will integrate Ouster’s BlueCity platform with Econolite’s Cobalt® controllers and EOS firmware to enhance traffic flow, safety, and operational efficiency at intersections and roadways.

The system, which uses Ouster’s 3D digital lidar technology, should provide real-time detection, classification, and tracking of vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians, even in challenging weather and lighting conditions. It will also support safety applications like Vulnerable Roadway User (VRU) detection and Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication protocols.

The deployment aligns with Utah’s Connected West Project, a federally funded initiative aimed at advancing V2X technologies to improve road safety and connectivity across Utah, Colorado, and Wyoming. Econolite has already received an order for 15 initial systems, with the project expected to run for five years.

The solution is designed to integrate seamlessly with UDOT’s existing infrastructure, requiring minimal maintenance and no road closures. It will also provide 24/7 data access through a cloud-based dashboard, eliminating the need for external data sources or manual collection.