Drones give Illinois transportation officials new viewpoints

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - Transportation officials in Illinois are testing drones for bridge inspections and other potential uses.

The Illinois Department of Transportation said in a news release Tuesday it has purchased two drones. The department is exploring how drones might improve mapping or document progress in work zones.

Transportation officials say live-streaming video from a drone could help decision-makers on the ground during a disaster or emergency.

The technology eventually could help with 3-D design on projects, geological studies and technical exhibits. The drones could be used to prepare public information about construction projects.

Use of the drones will follow Federal Aviation Administration guidelines and be overseen and deployed by the department's Division of Aeronautics.