Best Practice

BEST PRACTICE:

H2−3: Construction Database and Website

DESCRIPTION:

Houston TranStar is a multi−modal transportation and emergency management center serving Houston, Texas and the surrounding region. TranStar was developed with the cooperation of four transportation agencies: Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT), Metro Transit Authority, Harris County, and the City of Houston. The function of the center is to plan, design, operate, and maintain 15,000 miles of roads in the Greater Houston area. TranStar includes a web−based construction management system, called Roadworks, that allows engineers and planners in different agencies to share project information and allows the public to determine the status of current and planned road construction projects in the Greater Houston area. Information posted on the website includes:

• Key project information (project name, number, description, point of contact, start/finish dates, location)
• Interactive maps
• Access to construction data
• Real−time traffic information, including incidents
• Motorist assistance information
• TXDOT lane closures

REASON(S) FOR ADOPTING:

During a period of economic prosperity in Houston during the early 1990s, many construction projects were implemented simultaneously. Motorists and transportation agencies became concerned that mobility was being restricted and resources could be better used through coordinated efforts.

PRIMARY BENEFIT(S):

Using Roadworks, agencies are able to coordinate activities, minimize the impacts of construction to road users, and maximize available resources. The general public is able to use the website to gain information on project status.

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

All streets and highways.

STATE(S) WHERE USED:

Texas

SOURCE/CONTACT(S):

Maria Cristela Vera, Houston TranStar
Phone: (713) 881−3278
E−mail: mvera@houstontranstar.org