Best Practice

BEST PRACTICE:

J1−3: Portable ITS Technology for Work Zone Traffic Management

DESCRIPTION:

Portable ITS technologies such as variable message signs (VMS), highway advisory radio (HAR), and queue length detectors have been utilized by Missouri Department of Transportation on various construction projects to detect traffic conditions and provide messages to motorists. The detectors collect data such as lane−occupancy and traffic speed and send them to a computer. The computer processes the data and determines appropriate messages to display to motorists on VMS. For example, if the traffic data show that a slowdown is occurring and backups are forming, the system can be programmed to automatically display a warning message on the VMS. The ITS technologies of VMS and HAR provide continuous and updated information to the traveling public as they approach or travel through construction zones.

The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) has used a variety of technologies including highway advisory radio (HAR), variable message signs (VMS), Indiana lane merge (dynamic merge), and closed circuit TV. The HAR is incorporated into the construction project and remains operational after construction to become a part of the State system.

REASON(S) FOR ADOPTING:

The ITS technologies provide additional data on the traffic situation, allowing more effective management of the traffic through construction zones. The information can be used to keep motorists advised of real−time conditions, to smooth traffic flow, and to give drivers earlier notice when incidents occur and advance warning to avoid rear−end crashes. The information also helps motorists to consider other travel options.

PRIMARY BENEFIT(S):

Benefits are improved traffic management through construction zones, reduced congestion, and reduction in frustration of the traveling public and rear−end crashes when delays are experienced. Driver behavior is improved as a result of making traveler information available. Also, it improves emergency response time to incidents.

MOST APPLICABLE LOCATION(S)/PROJECT(S):

The "smart work zone" is most applicable on freeway facilities, both urban and rural. It is especially useful where high volume is experienced. It can also be helpful in recreational and tourist locations with seasonal traffic.

RELATED BEST PRACTICE(S):

Providing Real−Time Traffic Information via Changeable Message Signs (Practice J2−2)
Work Zone ITS for Traveler Information (Practice J2−3)
Dynamic Lane Merge (Practice J1−4)

STATE(S) WHERE USED:

Indiana, Missouri

SOURCE/CONTACT(S):

Ed Cox, Freeway ITS Manager, Traffic Management Center, Indiana DOT
Phone: (317) 899−8601
E−mail: ecox@indot.in.gov