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Cone & Graham, Inc. led the construction of Florida’s first Weigh-in-Motion (WIM) station on I-95 southbound in Martin County. This innovative design-build project was a multidisciplinary effort that integrated roadway design, environmental permitting, structural engineering, drainage, lighting, electrical and mechanical systems, and landscape architecture. The station is the first in the state to utilize cutting-edge sensors embedded in the travel lane, allowing trucks to be weighed while moving at highway speeds. This advancement improves the efficiency of vehicle inspections and reduces the wear and tear on Florida’s roadways.
The main administration building, which serves as the operational hub for the weigh station, earned the distinction of being Florida's first LEED Silver Certified weigh station facility. The building incorporates sustainable features such as energy-efficient systems and environmentally friendly materials. Additionally, the site includes a self-sufficient septic treatment system, a package water treatment plant, and an emergency power generator to ensure continuous operation.
The WIM station serves a critical role in enhancing highway safety and protecting infrastructure. Thousands of trucks traveling I-95 daily are automatically weighed as they pass over sensors. Trucks within legal weight limits are directed to continue, while overweight trucks are flagged for further inspection. This process not only helps prevent road damage caused by heavy vehicles but also ensures that trucks meet safety standards before continuing their journey.
FDOT's Weigh-in-Motion station is equipped with ramps, electronic signage, subterranean scales, and inspection facilities, making it an essential tool for improving both safety and road conditions. Overweight trucks face fines based on the severity of the infraction, and trucks significantly over the limit are required to offload excess weight before resuming travel. By streamlining the inspection process, the station helps ensure that vehicles comply with Florida’s weight regulations and keeps unsafe trucks off the road.
This state-of-the-art facility represents a significant investment in the long-term preservation of Florida’s highway system and the safety of all motorists. With its efficient design and advanced technology, the I-95 Weigh-in-Motion station stands as a model for future transportation safety initiatives in Florida.