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March 30, 2017
McCain unveils its latest ATC controller
US-based McCain has introduced the FLeX controller, the smallest controller in its ATC eX series of advanced transportation controllers. Measuring just 5.5” tall, the compact controller includes new features and capabilities, including front panel access to data, optional built-in wi-fi and a full 16-line display screen with a split-screen option for users operating Omni eX¬ intersection control software. The FLeX controller is available in both shelf mount and rack mount configurations and easily upgrad
March 30, 2017
New user research: What makes a successful road journey?
Drivers say journey time is the most important factor to measure on England’s motorways and major ‘A’ roads, according to research published by Transport Focus, the transport user watchdog and the Office of Rail and Road (ORR), the monitor of Highways England. The research, Measuring performance of England’s strategic roads: what users want, includes the views of drivers, cyclists, pedestrians and freight companies. Drivers are most concerned with issues relating to journey time, which includes how
March 30, 2017
China plans more ITS deployment despite economic slowdown
The Chinese government is turning to ITS to help solve urban traffic congestion in the majority of its large cities. Eugene Gerden reports. China is investing an estimated 3.5bn yuan ($551 million) per year in ITS and while the country’s current economic strategy may see this decline, the government plans to continue active development of the national intelligent transport system.
March 29, 2017
Lowering the barriers to combined control rooms
Integrating control rooms can improve traffic management, security and emergency response without excessive cost or compromising privacy. In the wake of the recent terrorist events in France and Germany where the transport system was exploited with deadly consequences, many governments and agencies are reviewing the security arrangements – particularly around popular and high profile events. Increasing security in transport systems that must remain accessible to the general public will not be easy but in ma
March 29, 2017
Netherlands to introduce Traffic Light Exchange to aid traffic flow
From summer 2017, the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment will begin operating the new national data transfer point Traffic Light Exchange (TLEX), which has been developed as part of the Talking Traffic Innovation Project. TLEX is central point for automated real-time data exchange between new smart traffic signal systems (iVRIs) and road users, enabling road users, iVRIs and infrastructure to communicate with one another in real time with the aim of achieving a smooth, efficient and saf
March 29, 2017
NJDOT to upgrade ITS on Route 18
Jacobs Engineering Group has been awarded a contract by the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) to provide construction administration and inspection services for the Route 18 Traffic Signal System project in East Brunswick and New Brunswick, New Jersey. The project consists of the installation of new intelligent transportation systems (ITS) equipment and upgrades to the existing traffic signal system. Jacobs’ services include the installation of image and radar detectors, controlled traffic
March 29, 2017
EU transport chief calls for European car toll system
The European Union's transport commissioner is calling for a Europe-wide car toll system that would enable motorists to use all European roads without having to stop at borders, says Associated Press. Many countries in the EU have highway toll systems, but they are separate and work in different ways. Transport Commissioner Violeta Bulc said every country could decide for itself whether it wants a car toll system, but those that do should participate in a standardised electronic system. Bulc plans to
March 29, 2017
Telegra tackle integrated corridor management
Coordination is the key to successful integrated corridor management, argues Telegra’s chief operating officer, Branko Glad. The Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR) has calculated that in 2013, traffic congestion cost American citizens $124 billion ($78 billion of wasted time and fuel and $45 billion in indirect losses). In 2030 this figure is predicted to rise to $186 billion.
March 28, 2017
Germany’s toll plan could ‘generate US$540 million’
Germany's Bundestag, the lower house of parliament, has passed a law which would see the introduction of a road toll for cars registered abroad with prices linked to environmental criteria, according to Reuters. Under the toll, cars that pollute less will pay a lower rate. The maximum annual cost for a foreign vehicle would be US$141 (€130). Originally proposed in 2015, the law was disputed by the European Commission and other European countries, which claimed it would be discriminatory towards non-Germ
March 27, 2017
Melbourne trials light-changing footpaths
The city of Melbourne, Australia, is trialling new technology in a bid to improve pedestrian safety at intersections. Lights have been installed in footpaths along the edge of the road at the intersection of Little Collins Street and Swanston Street. They change colour between red and green in time with the pedestrian crossing signals. The lights will be switched on around the clock, helping people walking at night or looking down at their phones know where the footpath ends. The intersection was cho