RSF 129: Addition of Driver Focus Cameras into KATS

Abstract RSF 129, Addition of Driver Focus Cameras into KATS 10/1/2022-9/30/2026 The goal of this project is to enhance the Kentucky Automated Truck Screening (KATS) systems with the implementation of a driver focus camera. The addition of a driver focus camera into KATS at each weigh station will allow enforcement to determine if drivers are complying with mandatory safety regulations for operating a commercial vehicle. Specifically, the images will allow enforcement personnel to determine if a hand-held cellular device is being utilized or if the driver is wearing their seat belt. This addition of technology enhances enforcement’s ability to identify driver-related safety violations and therefore serves to improve safety for all drivers. The objective of this project is to increase the number of seat belt and handheld cellular device usage violations identified through inspection. Kentucky’s goal is to identify 200% more of these types of violations at Kentucky weigh stations. Kentucky will compare data from calendar year 2019 (when Kentucky had no driver focus cameras) to data from 2025 when all Kentucky weigh stations will be outfitted with driver focus cameras. Kentucky identified 33 seat belt and phone related violations at fixed facilities in 2019. Kentucky’s goal will be to identify at least 99 seat belt and/or handheld cellular device violations in 2025. Based on preliminary findings from Kentucky’s initial installation, this objective is obtainable. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) will work with Kentucky State Police-Commercial Vehicle Enforcement (KSP-CVE) and the Kentucky Transportation Center (KTC) to complete the following tasks: Task 1: Planning, Administration, and Communication - KTC staff will work with KYTC and KSP- CVE to finalize a work plan for the project. KTC will manage the procurement, installation, and evaluation of the project and will keep KYTC and KSP-CVE informed of the progress and any problems encountered. KTC will seek approval and advice from KYTC and KSP-CVE as needed. Task 2: Purchase Necessary Equipment - KTC staff will purchase equipment from the approved vendor. Since this equipment has already been installed at two sites and has been integrated with KATS, a sole-source procurement is anticipated for this project. Task 3: Install Equipment – Site preparation and equipment installation for each site will be prioritized based on input from KSP. KTC will conduct a visit at each location (with an electrical contractor, as necessary) to determine what is needed for site preparation. Once the site has been sufficiently prepared, KTC will assist and supervise with equipment installation at all 12 locations (listed below). It is anticipated that site preparation and equipment installation will occur at one site at a time over a 2.5-year period. Task 4: Update KATS Interface to Include Driver Focus Camera – This technology has already been integrated into the KATS system. However, once cameras are installed, the KATS interface at those locations will need to be updated to include display of these images. KYTC and KTC will work with the KATS vendor to complete this effort. Follow-up will be conducted with KSP to ensure that the KATS interface and cameras perform as expected. Task 5: Training and Monitoring on Installations – Shortly after installation, weigh station personnel will be provided with training on how to utilize the driver focus camera. For a period of about 3 months after each installation, KTC will monitor the KATS systems to make sure the driver focus camera is working properly. KTC will interact with enforcement personnel as needed to ensure any problems are addressed quickly. Updates or enhancements to the implementation will be made as needed. Task 6: Evaluation and Project Summary – After all driver focus cameras have been installed, the evaluation period will begin. KTC anticipates utilizing inspection data for calendar year 2025. Researchers will look at how many seat belt and handheld cell phone-related violations are identified. These findings will be compared to the baseline data from 2019. The results of this evaluation will be documented in a final report.