VMS ComposerThe use of Variable Message Signs (VMS) is increasing nationwide due to the rapid deployment of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) technologies in order to improve traffic flow and enhance safety. Several types of signs may be categorized under VMS, including Dynamic Message Signs (DMS) and Changeable Message Signs (CMS). VMS are among the most common methods of communicating relevant information to the travelers while enroute. Recently, VMS have been used for supporting security applications, such as the Amber Alert System. Since this technology is fairly new with rising popularity, nationwide VMS standards have not been thoroughly completed. Individual states have developed their own sets of guidelines to govern the use of their VMS. Developing consistent nationwide VMS operational standards is very important to ensure effective traffic control and management. Drivers should be able to understand traffic control and relevant information as they travel from state to state. ATAC worked with the North Dakota Department of Transportation on developing guidelines for VMS use in North Dakota. In order to facilitate the use of these guidelines, ATAC developed the VMS Composer, an interactive software tool for supporting the process of generating a message to display on a VMS while following state standards. The guidelines and software were based on Federal Highway Administration's portable changeable message sign guidelines, the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, and NDDOT guidelines. VMS Composer was implemented in Windows operating environment and takes advantage of graphical interfaces to enhance user friendliness. The two main functions for the VMS Composer: 1) ensure that a message is warranted based on agency standards, and 2) if a message is warranted, the application will walk a user through the steps to create a message. The message is formatted to fit the display specifications and ensures that agency-specific guidelines, such as acceptable abbreviations and phase timings, are followed. The software application has a modular design that will allow customization of the set of agency rules, as well as the VMS specifications, making it agency and VMS type independent. This software will allow the NDDOT and other states to simplify the process of warranting VMS messages and, when warranted, create a proper message to display. The software may be used as a simple training tool for agency staff, especially occasional users of VMS during emergency situations. Additionally, VMS Composer may be modified to allow inter-jurisdictional control of VMS while satisfying all pertinent requirements for each jurisdiction. The VMS composer can be adapted to other states' guidelines. For more information contact Ayman Smadi at ayman@atacenter.org. North Dakota Statewide ITS Plan CompletedThe North Dakota Statewide ITS Plan is the product of a multi-year effort undertaken by the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) to guide ITS deployment in North Dakota. ATAC facilitated the plan development, including obtaining input on critical transportation issues, identifying ITS solutions, developing ITS projects for deployment, and preparing a final report. The NDDOT leadership provided support for the plan development and encouraged participation among NDDOT staff. Given the scale of the geographic area included in the plan, extensive work went into identifying existing systems, assessing needs, developing ITS projects, and suggesting locations for deployment. The pace of ITS deployment in North Dakota has picked up significantly over the last couple of years. Several reasons contributed to that growth, including major construction activity, positive experiences with early ITS traveler information projects, an increased focus on customer service, and the need to meet increased demands with limited staff. It is clear that the NDDOT has made tremendous progress in the areas of traveler information to improve mobility and enhance safety. North Dakota's 511 system, which frequently receives positive feedback from users, is perhaps the launching pad for 511 systems in the United States. For the future, the NDDOT is looking at enhancing traveler information services to travelers by covering more areas and providing timely and accurate information through a variety of outlets (Dynamic Message Signs, Internet, and Kiosks). The NDDOT is also looking at automated bridge treatment (anti-icing) systems that would detect problems and instantly remedy those conditions without operator intervention. One of these systems will be installed on the Red River Bridge in Fargo this summer, thanks in part to a partnership between the NDDOT and the Minnesota DOT. ATAC was involved in planning for and supporting the design of this system, which also includes video monitoring cameras on both sides of the river. The Statewide ITS Plan final report is available for download from www.atacenter.org. |
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