Advanced Traffic Management Systems in Colorado Springs

摘要

The City of Colorado Springs has become a research laboratory for in-field evaluation of emerging ITS technology. It is initiating several programs to improve traffic management throughout the area, including incident detection and management, upgrades to the signal master intersection control system, signal communications, and weather stations and carbon monoxide monitors. The video surveillance system provides incident detection and congestion management on both the freeway and a major arterial. It operates through the use of real-time video and variable message signs. Signal master improvements include the ability to upload and download all intersection data at the Traffic Control Center or through a portable notebook computer in a vehicle workstation. Spread spectrum radio enables connection of all signals in the Colorado Springs region to the signal master system. This cross-jurisdictional viewing of all signals will help improve overall communication and timing schemes. The weather stations and carbon monoxide stations will provide timely data to the signal master, allowing prompt response when required. To implement these significant system-wide changes, the Colorado Springs worked with a software consultant and a signal controller manufacturer to develop the 470I module upgrade for the 170 controller. The 470I is a substantially more powerful prom module that improves controller capabilities and is likely to revolutionize the role of traffic management systems.