Advanced Traveler Information Services in Rural Tourism Areas: Branson Travel andRecreational Information Program (Missouri) and Interstate 40 Traveler and Tourist Information System (Arizona)

摘要

The Branson Travel and Recreational Information Program (Branson TRIP) inBranson, Missouri, and the I-40 Traveler and Tourist Information System (I-40 TTIS) in northern Arizona are field operational tests (FOTs) being conducted through partnerships involving state and federal agencies and private organizations. The FOTs are funded in part by the National Advanced Rural Transportation Systems program. The focus of these FOTs is to provide the traveling public, especially tourists, with information about traffic and travel conditions, national and state parks, local events and attractions, and accommodations. These tests will demonstrate the degree to which Advanced Traveler Information Systems (ATIS) can improve traveler mobility and access, relieve congestion, and stimulate economic development in rural tourism areas. Branson TRIP is a regional traveler information system that will provide comprehensive information on tourist attractions, weather, traffic, and road construction in the Branson/Tri-Lakes area. Each year, over six million visitors are attracted to the Branson area because of the availability of over 38 live music and entertainment theaters, numerous outlet malls and shopping centers, and various outdoor recreation opportunities. The TRIP system is envisioned as the first phase of the Great Plains TRIP, which will encompass Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Arkansas.