FDOT’s 2025 SWIFTT Challenge Highlights Connected and Digital Technologies for Work Zone Safety

The Florida Department of Transportation’s 2025 SWIFTT Challenge, held in Orlando alongside an Associated Contractors of America Florida event, showcased emerging technologies designed to improve safety and efficiency in highway work zones through connected, automated and digital solutions. Five finalists presented innovations ranging from automated pavement marking systems and digital ticketing platforms to high-visibility marking materials, connected work zone safety devices and digital plan integration tools. While not created specifically to address the Federal Highway Administration’s minimum retroreflectivity rule, several solutions, particularly automated marking technologies, demonstrated potential to support compliance and enhance roadway visibility. The event fostered industry collaboration, highlighted practical lessons from past implementations and provided insight into technologies that may shape future transportation specifications and safety practices.