PennDOT Installs New, Cost-Saving Technology On Plows

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- PennDOT is installing new technology in more than 700 plow trucks for the winter season.

The plow trucks are being outfitted now, according to PennDOT's Gene Blaum, who explains what it is and how it works.

"It's called Automated Vehicle Location system," Blaum says, "and the unit in each truck sends a cellular signal through the system that will show where a truck is located and whether or how much material, such as salt, is being spread from the truck."

Blaum says through the computer, PennDOT will be able to monitor trucks and reroute them to areas where they are needed on highways and interstates. He says this will mean major cost savings for the state.

Blaum says the information will also be accessible online at 511pa.com later this year.