Summer is the peak season for road construction across the United States. With warmer weather comes a surge in infrastructure activity, supported by massive funding efforts such as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).
As of early 2025, U.S. highway construction spending reached an annualized rate of $146.3 billion. And according to the U.S. Department of Transportation, “207,000+ miles of roadway are being repaired or improved from coast to coast.”
Extensive Construction Project Planning is Critical
While these investments are vital to long-term mobility and safety, the short-term increase in active work zones also means heightened risk for motorists and construction crews alike. Keeping both workers and drivers safe in these high-risk zones demands smart planning.
Construction zones vary in scope from minor lane closures to multi-lane highway rebuilds, but regardless of the size, the objective remains the same: reduce confusion, minimize disruption, and prevent accidents.
Accurate, Actionable Traffic Statistics Can Make All the Difference
Below, we explore three ways that law enforcement agencies and traffic engineers can use data to improve summer road construction safety and efficiency using advanced tools from Kustom Signals.
1. Conduct Traffic Surveys with the TrafficTrak™
Before breaking ground, understanding how vehicles flow through a work zone is key to designing safe detours and traffic control strategies. The ProLaser® 4 is more than just an advanced handheld LiDAR unit—it’s also a data-gathering tool for traffic surveys when used with TrafficTrak™. This Android application enables users to quickly measure vehicles with a ProLaser 4, wirelessly collect, review, and share traffic data. Traffic engineers and law enforcement professionals to collect real-world speed data with pinpoint accuracy.
These insights help identify problem areas, set appropriate speed limits, and inform the timing and layout of road closures. Reliable speed profiles ensure that safety measures are not just compliant, but effective.
2. Analyze Volume and Speed Trends with SMARTStat™
During construction, real-time traffic monitoring can make or break a work zone’s success. All Kustom Signals SMART Variable Message Sign (VMS) trailers, SMART RADAR trailers and pole mount displays have traffic data collection options. The SMARTStat traffic data analysis software takes the data from these trailers and displays and provides valuable information for traffic engineers and law enforcement to take action. These trailers and displays are ideal to slow down motorists in work zones by real time speed feedback and alerts to passing drivers.
These portable traffic data systems allow planners to:
- Detect spikes in traffic volumes
- Identify whether speed compliance is improving
- Adjust messaging based on live conditions
Whether it’s a local detour or a major highway lane shift, the SMART trailers and SMARTStat software helps you stay responsive and proactive, making it easier to adapt to changing traffic patterns without compromising worker safety.
3. Enforce Speed Limits in Active Zones with LaserCam® 4
When education and signage aren’t enough, enforcement becomes critical. The LaserCam 4 delivers powerful video and photo-LiDAR capabilities designed specifically for work zone enforcement.
- Capture high-resolution video and still images of speed violations
- Performs in congested or low-light conditions
- Long-range accuracy and intuitive interface
The LaserCam 4 makes it easier for agencies to maintain a visible presence and deter dangerous driving behaviors in sensitive construction areas. Not only does this help reduce crashes, it also sends a strong message: safety in work zones is non-negotiable.
Improve Highway Construction Safety with Smart Solutions from Kustom Signals
The pressure is on to modernize and repair America’s roadways. That work can’t come at the cost of safety. From planning and monitoring to enforcement, reliable traffic statistics give public safety teams the insight they need to protect crews, guide motorists, and reduce the chance of tragic outcomes.
Contact us today to learn how our traffic data solutions can help you manage this summer’s construction season with confidence.