MINOT, ND ( KXNET ) — Technology is constantly changing, and thanks to one law, roads will become safer in the state with the addition of new advancements.

Smart Grants were created through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).

They are part of a new grant program that funds $500 million over five years to smart transportation technologies — the biggest investment in these systems in history.

Smart Grants fund lots of different transportation technologies, including vehicle-based technologies, drones, and water-based systems.

Drones, in particular, can get into places people can’t to inspect infrastructure, which enables them to help the state figure out what is needed.

According to Transportation.gov , North Dakota is expected to receive $1.9 billion over five years thanks to the BIL, which will help with repairing the roads and bridges around the state.

“There are a lot of times where drones can be used,” explained Smart Grants Program Director Stan Caldwell, ” where they need to look under bridges, inspect dams, and determine the health of infrastructure.”

Caldwell says drones are being used for several applications, including planning and construction projects.

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