The US government is buying machines to measure how rough roads are

The US government awarded a contract to buy a Profilometer Terrain Measurement System. This system measures the roughness of surfaces. It means the government is investing in better ways to assess and maintain infrastructure like roads and runways.

Measuring surface roughness is crucial for maintaining infrastructure. Rougher roads cost more in vehicle wear and tear, and they can be less safe. This purchase suggests a move towards more precise, data-driven infrastructure management, rather than relying on visual inspection or less accurate methods.