Emergency response shines at Innovations Challenge

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Each year, MoDOT hosts an Innovations Challenge inviting employees from around the state to enter their innovations that improve safety, save money, save time, and simplify work for the department. This year, KC District Emergency Response won the overall Productivity Award for their Swivel DMS board innovation. This innovation mounts existing DMS boards to a swivel mount accessory kit installed on an emergency response truck. 

"This innovation allows the operator to turn the message sign with a handheld controller safely from inside the cab of the vehicle. It also locks the board into any viewing position needed," says Emergency Response Operations Supervisor, Scott Banes.

Banes says that this innovation benefits both employees and motorists in the metro area.

"It keeps our crews and the public safer by allowing for greater flexibility in positioning the signs for maximum viewing," he explains.

Implemented in 2022 by Scott Banes and Hector Ortiz, the innovation is an excellent addition to emergency response message boards. Banes says that the added versatility is a big advantage for providing optimal traffic control.

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