This 18-mile stretch of road could be the future for highways
A nonprofit called The Ray is testing new technology for US highways, which they believe will make them safer, cleaner, and could save cities millions of dollars in roadside maintenance. CNN's Derek Van Dam takes a ride along the 18-mile stretch of highway to check out some of the innovative features they hope will transform the transportation sector.
Key Takeways
Rubber Modified Asphalt (RMA): Allie and Derek visited the Georgia Visitor Information Center to showcase RMA in action. This "circular" technology uses crumb rubber from scrap tires to create roads that are more durable, quieter, and crack-resistant.
Natural Capital: The tour highlighted our roadside pollinator meadows, which replace traditional grasses with native wildflowers to stabilize soil and support local biodiversity.
Solar Right-of-Way: The segment spotlighted the immense potential of utilizing highway roadsides for renewable energy, featuring our roadside solar panels that turn idle land into a source of alternative energy.
“It’s hundreds of thousands of acres of opportunity to do better.”
