Project. Route 460 wireless network

Principal investigator: Dr. Aaron Schroeder, Virginia Tech, 540-231-6243, aaron@vtti.vt.edu

External contact. Wayne Ferguson, VTRC, 530 Edgemont Rd., Charlottesville, VA 22903, 804-293-1917

Objective: Test the feasibility of using wireless communications as a backbone for traffic information and management systems.

Project Abstract: This project builds on existing VDOT wireless communication facilities along 10 miles of Route 460 near Blacksburg, Virginia. The project will enhance these capabilities to create a model wireless corridor showing the applications of 802.11b wireless internet. Enhancements will include adapting traffic detectors and variable message signs so they can communicate over the wireless network, installing a weather station and adapting it to the wireless network, and installing "points-of-presence" that allow VDOT personnel to operate along the wireless corridor. After deploying these enhancements, the project will assess lifecycle costs for the various system elements, conduct an evaluation, and determine lessons learned.

Tasks: This project has two concurrent phases: capability expansion and benefit-cost evaluation. The capability expansion involves deployment or enhancements of traffic detectors, a weather station, points-of-presence, and a mobile variable message sign. The evaluation has the following four tasks: 1) Determining system costs. 2) Creating an evaluation strategy. 3) Collecting and analyzing evaluation data. 4) Determining lessons learned.

Milestones: The project will be completed by June 30, 2005.

Student Involvement: Four students will be involved.

Budget:
FY04
    Faculty/staff 50,000
FY05
    Faculty/staff 180,000
    Students 20,000
Match:
Equipment 150,000
Project total 400,000

Relation to other research: Similar to other ITS Center projects directly supporting VDOT operations.

Technology Transfer: Directly supports VDOT operations. In addition, the lessons learned about use of wireless as a backbone for transportation operations will be communicated to the profession through conference presentations and papers.

Potential Benefits: Improved efficiency and lower costs in traffic operations.

TRB Keywords: ITS, telecommunications, traffic management