6.7 Use of ITS Equipment/Advanced Technology
Portable message signs were used to provide information to the evacuees. These signs were available through the Sheriff’s Department and Caltrans.
Caltrans received complaints about the accuracy and relevance of communications regarding roadway conditions. People wanted to know immediately which roads were opened or closed and wanted the information available while in their car. Information received through a cell phone, personal digital assistant, or radio, and not necessarily the Internet, could have helped provide a better communication link to residents and travelers.
Non-advanced technology was also used to establish road closures. Caltrans had pre-positioned traffic barriers and road-closed signs at various locations and chained them to various posts and anchors in the ground to ensure they remained there. If a roadway was to be closed, the equipment and barriers were already in place, and they unchained the equipment and set up the roadblock.
February 6, 2006
Publication #FHWA-HOP-08-014
