Minnesota Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) Pilot Safety Program: A Report on the Program's Background and Initial Successes

Abstract

Local transportation agencies continue to set aggressive safety goals. However, it is becoming increasingly difficult to significantly improve highway safety using standard safety solutions because much of this benefit has already been realized. Low-cost intelligent transportation systems (ITS) solutions are now more readily available and can help local transportation agencies reach their safety goals. However, relatively few agencies are currently using ITS technologies. In 2008, the Minnesota ITS Pilot Safety Program was established to help local transportation agencies overcome the barriers that exist to implementing ITS technologies by funding ITS consulting assistance for these agencies. The pilot program was a joint venture sponsored by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) State Aid for Local Transportation, the MnDOT Office of Traffic Safety and Operation, the Minnesota Local Road Research Board, and ITS Minnesota. In the initial round of funding, four projects were funded in the amount of $10,000 each, and one project later withdrew. Two of the projects are now complete, and the local transportation officials overseeing those projects report significant initial success. In Saint Louis County, a new and promising solution for dynamic school bus warning signs was identified. The county and consultant are now seeking funding to begin development and testing of a system. In Olmsted County, location-specific ITS intersection safety systems were recommended, and the county plans to fund the purchase and installation of these devices over time through its annual capital improvement program. A third project in the City of Edina is scheduled to be completed in fall 2009.