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| Jacobs assisted WSDOT with Smarter Highways Jacobs Engineering Group Inc. announced that engineers from the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) activated its high-tech traffic management system along northbound I-5 in south Seattle. The active traffic management system, known locally as Smarter Highways, helps manage congestion in the Seattle region using dynamic message signs over each lane at one-half mile intervals. The signs display variable speed limits, lane status and real-time traffic information so drivers know what is happening ahead and can adjust their driving accordingly. WSDOT controls the signs to actively close lanes or slow speeds in advance of congestion or a blocking incident. This technology is expected to increase roadway efficiency and safety. Jacobs assisted WSDOT with overall program management services, procurement and contract administration during the design and construction of the signs and the supporting infrastructure, as well as testing and start-up of the system. With Jacobs' assistance, WSDOT traffic engineers rigorously tested the Smarter Highways on I-5 for several months to ensure the complex system of traffic sensors and electronic signs were ready to activate. The technology will soon be expanded to SR 520 and I-90 in urban Seattle, as well as the outlying regions. Officials estimate the total construction value of the federally funded project to beover $60 million. write your comments about the article :: © 2010 Construction News :: home page |