ODOT's Cameras Now Online

Any kind of severe weather can make driving conditions difficult.  But, the Oklahoma Department of Transportation hopes to help you maneuver our highways and save time on the road any time.  News On 6 anchor Jennifer Loren reports ODOT launched a statewide traffic monitoring website that you can check out before you head out.

When the Broken Arrow Expressway becomes a slow-moving skating rink for cars or Highway 169 is backed up because of a wreck, you might be able to avoid becoming traffic's next victim because of eyes in the sky peering over the Tulsa metro's most backed-up bi-ways.

"We put them up along some of the major intersections of highways and some of the busiest sections of highway, as well. We thought that would really give drivers a good indication of where they should go and where they need to avoid," said ODOT's Kenna Mitchell.

Each of the 12 camera locations have several views that update every two minutes.  ODOT hopes clicking on their website will save you time and money.

"What we're hoping they will do is not only help them save their gas dollars because, as we know, prices are really expensive right now. But, also just help them better maneuver the city, cut down their stress level as they're trying to get where they need to go," said ODOT's Kenna Mitchell.

Some people who work downtown say they'll log on.

"Absolutely to find out which way I want to go to get where I need to be," said driver Chad Oliverson.

"I think it's probably a good idea. You can see where the tie-ups are," added Karen Van Schoyck.

The federal government paid for the cameras at a cost of $9 million statewide.  ODOT doesn't record any of the images shown on their website and they cannot be used in court or for anything other than monitoring roads.

Related story:

6/2/2008  New Traffic Webcams Hit The Internet