Ask the Ray

Thank you for reaching out! Everyone can participate in The Ray and bring parts of it into their communities, and we’re happy to help you do that. The Ray, its solution set of innovations, and the public-private-philanthropic partnership model that enables the infrastructure, research and testing is a scalable, relevant and transferable blueprint for other states and even other countries.

As of April 2020, Wattway for walkways and bike paths is a <a href="https://www.wattwaybycolas.com/en/our-offer.html" target="_blank">commercial product</a>. To date, our Wattway is still the only drivable Wattway surface in the U.S. If you’re interested in learning more about our pilot, let us know; we’re happy to share our data and experience. While we haven’t tried a rain collection system yet, we think it’s a great idea and would be excited to hear about your results. Like you, we believe in transparency and data sharing. We worked with Duquesne University to analyze data from three of our early flagship pilot projects discussed in <a href="https://theray.org/2018/12/20/the-ray-driving-the-future-with-integrated-value/" target="_blank">this report</a>, and we will continue to publicize research and analysis as we grow.

Another alternative you may want to consider for repaving is <a href="https://theray.org/tech/rubber-roads/" target="_blank"> rubberized asphalt</a>. Scrap tires can be upcycled to create quieter, crack-resistant, and longer-lasting roads. The first mile of interstate lanes on The Ray, starting at the Georgia-Alabama state line and including the parking lot of the rest area, was paved with asphalt that contains rubber from 3,520 recycled scrap tires. That’s 42,240 pounds of rubber out of the landfill and into the road.

If you can come and see The Ray in person, we’d love to show you our sustainable innovations in action and hear about your goals. If you can’t make it down in person, please <a href="mailto:contactus@theray.org" target="_blank">email us</a> and tell us about your project and what you’re trying to replicate. We’re more than happy to set aside time to share our experiences with you and see how we can help advance your project.