A safe and efficient transportation system is dependent upon many variables, including traffic, road conditions, the weather, and even animal-vehicle interactions. A system that can monitor these conditions and then provide useful information to travelers can enhance safety and mobility.

The area in and around Yellowstone National Park (YNP) has several operational challenges. These challenges include varying weather conditions, alternate routes that are separated by great distances, and animal-vehicle conflicts. In addition, corridors in this area can experience periodic heavy traffic from visitors entering and leaving YNP. Up-to-date information about road conditions would assist those who manage and utilize the transportation system along the US 89 and US 212 corridors.

The purpose of this Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) project was to demonstrate the use of advanced technologies to increase information to motorists on the on US 89 and US 212 corridors at key decision points— around Livingston, MT and Cody, WY. The project focused on the goal of reducing the traffic (visitor) impact on the natural resources in the area, through traffic management and wayfinding enhancements.

Western Transportation Institute collaborated with YNP, Montana Department of Transportation, Wyoming Department of Transportation and other relevant stakeholders to finalize ITS technology. The project encompassed obtaining the data and conducting the analysis to determine the ITS technologies most appropriate for the project, followed by the procurement, installation, testing and evaluation of the strategies and technologies.