CHEYENNE (WNE) — WYDOT is now working to share road-closure data directly with Google and other navigation companies. 

Navigational apps generally report road closures and recommend alternate routes based on data collected from other drivers who are using the app. As a result, information about infrequently traveled local roads may not be updated often enough to reflect fast-pace conditions.

In Wyoming, some I-80 motorists following suggested detours have ended up stranded on inaccessible roads without fuel, food or water. 

This also creates hazards for emergency responders tasked with finding and rescuing these motorists. To help prevent such emergencies, WYDOT has expanded third-party access to a powerful tool known as the Situation Data Exchange,v or SDX.

The SDX stores and distributes data collected from wirelessly connected vehicles, including WYDOT fleet vehicles and snowplows. WYDOT also consults with individual counties to include information on local and conditional closures. Navigation companies with access to the SDX will have a new, reliable source of real-time travel information including weather advisories, variable speed limits, road closure notifications and vehicle weight restrictions.

WYDOT hopes to finalize agreements with Apple and other navigation system providers in the near future to ensure that accurate, up-to-date travel information is available to as many motorists as possible.