Real time info: WisDOT to use electronic billboards to notify motorists of wrong-way driver in the area

MILWAUKEE -- The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) will begin utilizing its overhead electronic messaging boards to inform motorists of a potential wrong-way driver in their area.

"They're actually called 'Dynamic Messaging Signs,'" said Brian DeNeve, WisDOT spokesman.

According to a press release, this tool is a part of WisDOT’s enhanced comprehensive approach with the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office to mitigate incidents related to wrong-way drivers.

Recently, WisDOT increased the number of wrong-way detection devices from 12 to 20, at locations throughout Milwaukee County.

"That's essentially a heads up that there had been a report of a wrong-way driver in this area, so please be cautious as you're driving and you may come across this," said DeNeve.

Wrong-way driver detection device

When one of these monitoring devices detects a wrong-way driver, an operator at the 24/7 WisDOT State Traffic Operations Center (STOC) will be notified. The control room operator will activate electronic signage in the area to warn motorists, while also working to confirm the wrong-way driver location.

The operator may also follow these steps when a wrong-way driver is first reported by law enforcement or initially located on a traffic camera.

"We think this will be a really, really effective way in possibly mitigating wrong-way driving," DeNeve said.

If after 10 minutes, the wrong-way driver cannot be confirmed by traffic camera or law enforcement, the related electronic message will be removed.

When a wrong-way driver is detected, drivers will see “Wrong Way Driver Reported” on message boards located along the impacted corridor.

The wrong-way driver enhanced signage system will go live on Thursday, December 29th at 10 p.m.