Portable Intelligent Traffic Management System for Work Zones and Incident Management Systems: Best Practice Review

An intelligent portable traffic management system is an integrated system which consists of portable variable messages signs (PVMSs), vehicle detection systems (such as detectors, cameras and other surveillance equipment), a computer-based control center and communication systems. Based on detected traffic information, the system automatically determines messages to be displayed on the PVMSs and may also disseminate the information through highway advisory radios (HARs) and the Internet. This study involved a comprehensive review of the application of various intelligent portable traffic management systems for use in work zones and incident management and speed management technologies for use in work zones; it also identified innovative technologies that have the potential to improve highway traffic operations. Interviews were conducted with representatives from departments of transportation (DOTs) in various states and private industry regarding their experience with and knowledge of work zone and incident management deployment initiatives and innovative technologies. A summary of various systems, including their features, deployments, and evaluation results, if any, has been included in this paper. Some guidelines are developed in this study for the effective application of automated portable traffic management systems in work zones and incident areas.