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The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation was recognized by federal officials for using advanced technologies to improve highway safety, the Federal Highway Administration announced Aug. 4.

Specifically, the state agency was praised for using a paving technique��known as “Safety Edge” that makes cars less susceptible to road-departure crashes. Also, the agency utilizes “high-friction surface treatments” that are known to improve the safety at intersections and curves.

State officials noted the safety innovations have helped reduce fatal roadway departure crashes by 12% since 2010.

“For many years, Pennsylvania has inspired other states with their transportation innovations,” Deputy Transportation Secretary Victor Mendez said. “The PennDOT team is saving lives, saving time and saving money on roads throughout the state, and motivating other states to do the same.”

FHWA Administrator Greg Nadeau said, "PennDot is proving to the nation just how effective these low-cost elements can be in protecting drivers.”