In a dimly lit room lined with monitors streaming live footage from nearly 190 cameras, the operators at the Alabama Department of Transportation’s (ALDOT) Traffic Management Centers (TMC) work tirelessly to keep the state’s roads safe and traffic flowing.
The centers, operating 24/7, are hubs for real-time coordination between motorists, law enforcement and engineers – yet few people know about the critical role these workers play.
“We are kind of like the liaison between the engineer and the people out on the roadway,” said ATS shift supervisor Jean Godfrey. “We see and hear what’s going on, and we relay that information to the engineers, law enforcement and public.”
A Day in the Life of a TMC Operator
Each shift begins with a scan of the state’s highways using cameras and radio communications to assess traffic conditions. From monitoring high-speed chases to dispatching Alabama Service and Assistance Patrol (ASAP) trucks for stranded motorists, the work requires sharp focus and multitasking.
“We’re constantly listening for crashes, stalled vehicles, and even high-speed chases,” Godfrey said. “If something is happening, we need to get messages on signs, update the ALGO Traffic website and alert the right people.”
Michelle Womack, an ATS operator of seven years, described how the team’s coordination is vital during major incidents.
“During a recent storm, we worked for 19 hours straight managing road closures, tracking debris and keeping law enforcement updated,” Womack said. “There’s a huge responsibility in making sure the right people are in the right place at the right time.”
The Hidden Impact of the TMC
The TMC is more than a control center – it’s a safety net for Alabama’s drivers. By tracking real-time travel data, operators can detect slowdowns and crashes before they’re officially reported.
“A lot of times, we call troopers to a crash they don’t even know about yet,” longtime operator Scott Harris said.
Operators also assist in unexpected ways. Godfrey recalled a call from a veteran suffering from PTSD after running out of gas on the highway.
“She was panicking with all the cars rushing by, so I stayed on the phone with her until she felt safe,” Godfrey said. “It’s not just about traffic – we’re here to help people.”
The Challenge of Awareness
Despite their critical role, many motorists remain unaware of the TMC’s existence.
Operators work behind the scenes to ensure smooth travel, but a lack of public awareness makes their jobs more challenging.
“If the TMC didn’t exist, it would be chaos out there,” Godfrey said. “We are the bridge between law enforcement, engineers and the public. Without that, response times would be slower and drivers wouldn’t have the real-time information they need.”
For Womack, the job is more than a career – it’s a calling.
“For me, this is a ministry,” Womack said. “I pray for people, I’ve witnessed miracles, and I know that what we do here makes a difference.”
While they may not be the first responders seen at crash sites, the operators of ALDOT’s Traffic Management Centers are the silent guardians of Alabama’s highways – working around the clock to keep drivers safe, informed and moving forward.
