Explore ITS Technologies for Work Zones and Impact Areas

The objectives of this project are to identify existing work zone Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) applications that are appropriate to Federal land road projects, and to provide guidance to federal land units that are considering or implementing work zone ITS systems.

Work zones can cause congestion and delays for travelers, and present a significant safety risk, especially for construction workers. The deployment of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) technologies in and around work zones can help improve both traffic safety and mobility by improving how work zones are managed and by providing up-to-date information to travelers. A few of the ITS systems that have been successfully used in work zones include (Real Time) Highway Advisory Radio Systems, Trip Time/Estimated Delay Information Systems, Excessive Speed Warning Systems, Temporary Ramp Metering, and Construction Vehicle Warning Systems. In response to Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) policies promoting reductions in work zone congestion and delays, the Federal Lands Highway division is exploring the expanded use of ITS on road projects. However, given the unique characteristics of Federal land projects (e.g., narrow roadways, remoteness, concern for visitor experience and preservation of historical and natural resources), existing work zone ITS systems may or may not be suitable for such projects. This project is designed to help federal land managers select effective ITS systems and to provide guidance for successful system implementation and management. The deliverables will include the development of a fact sheet for each system identified as feasible for use on a federal land road project.