ITS National Associations Working Group
Meeting Summary
Thursday, March 20, 2003
Transportation Research Board
500 Fifth
Street, N.W., Room 204
Washington, D.C. 20001
Agenda
List of Attendees
Opening Remarks and Introductions
Rich Cunard, Transportation Research Board (10 minutes)
Mr. Cunard
welcomed the National Association Working Group (NAWG), and asked for
self-introductions. Mr. Cunard noted that many of the available TRB publications
may be of interest to Working Group members. One of the articles in the
January-February TR News that was distributed was on emergency
evacuations. In 2002, one of the TR News issues focused on ITS. Working
Group members interested in receiving a copy should contact Rich Cunard at Rcunard@nas.edu. In addition, the TRB
E-Newsletter is available to help facilitate the exchange of research results
and other information with transportation professionals. Circulation for the
E-Newsletter is currently 8,750, 10 percent of which is distributed
internationally. NAWG members can subscribe online or contact Russell Houston,
TRB at Rhouston@nas.edu. Also distributed
to Working Group members was information regarding active and recent NCHRP and
TCRP projects. Further information on NCHRP and TCRP projects is available at http://trb.org/trb/nchrp. The publications
discussed by Mr. Cunard, along with many others, are available at the TRB
website: www.trb.org
TRB's recently formed Transportation Systems Operations Management Committee
will meet in Seattle during the ITE Conference. The committee will address the
challenges of regional collaboration and cooperation for operations, with a
focus on creating appropriate products that will help improve operations in a
region. An ITS Committee has also been formed; discussions focused on
"INFOstructure" last February in Houston.
Discussion:
Bill Browder, AAR inquired about the status of a specific
NCHRP project being considered for funding during 2004. The project will focus
on planned ways and public right of ways. Mr. Cunard responded that the
selection process for 2004 projects is complete. Currently, statements of work
are under development and will be released soon.
Operations and Management
Jeff Paniati, Associate Administrator for Operations, Federal Highway
Administration
Transportation
Operations & Congestion - Presentation
Mr. Paniati's presentation discussed activities and the strategic thinking
now taking place within the area of operations and congestion. Mr. Paniati
indicated that he had hoped to discuss reauthorization, but because the draft is
under final review, he was unable to discuss it. Release of the administration's
reauthorization is expected within the next several weeks. Mr. Paniati stated
that within reauthorization importance is placed on operations, freight, and
congestion. Following release of the reauthorization, we hope to find an
appropriate time to speak to the Working Group again about its potential
effects.
Mr. Paniati spoke of the reorganization that recently occurred within the
Office of Operations at the FHWA. The three major offices within the office are
Operations, Transportation Management, and Freight Management and Operations.
The reorganization brings together most of the activities that deal with
congestion, such as work zones, weather, and incident management to name a few.
Also created during the reorganization is the public safety and security team to
bring together security and traffic incident management activities that have
previously been handled on an ad hoc basis. The office of Freight Management is
engaged in raising the importance of freight operations and intermodal
activities to a higher level.
Congestion can be mitigated in a number of ways, including some opportunity
for capacity management. Beyond traditional demand management activities, such
as carpooling and mass transit use, the FHWA encourages telecommuting options as
one way to reduce congestion. Aggressive management of the existing system also
has the potential to reduce congestion.
During last several years, the National Dialogue has resulted in
several white papers, which address the range of issues involved in operations.
The electronic discussion has also generated great interest in the topic. The
National Summit held in October 2001 served as the pinnacle of the initial
effort to promote transportation operations and regional coordination. It is
encouraging to see that many organizations have created committees to deal
specifically with the issue. This is an important first step when associations
recognize the need for discussion and focus on operations. Currently the effort
is moving from the excitement of creating a vision and collaboration to
developing action items, and beginning the work in earnest. The FHWA is looking
for ways to coordinate with associations and organizations to move forward and
foster discussion, without duplicating effort.
How do we move from discussion to more action? Agencies that have adapted to
use a 21st century operations culture need to be created.
Characteristics of 21st century operations cultures include:
- Proactive planning for operations rather than reactive operations
activities
- Customer focused activities such as 511, providing motorists with the
information they need to make better decisions
- Thinking beyond jurisdictional activities, with emphasis on system wide
coordination
- Managing traffic on a 24/7 basis
- Moving towards performance measures that focus on reliability, and
responding to what the customer needs
- Using real-time data and information to manage traffic
Actions to create a 21st century operating culture:
- Routinely retime signals to be responsive
- Create formal traffic incident response plans
- Analyze the effect of work zones on a regional level early; aggressively
mitigate potential congestion
- Create regional performance measures
- Proactively manage potential congestion due to weather
- Approach planning from two perspectives: (1) incorporating funding on
operations projects; (2) planning to operate across organizational and
jurisdictional lines.
- Provide traveler information regionally in real-time
- Make data available to all appropriate agencies
- Use technology as an enabler
Next steps:
- Emphasize the need to move from dialogue to action "How do we continue to
move forward."
- Meet with various associations to coordinate efforts
- Reconvene the National Dialogue on Operations Executive Committee
- Develop the idea for a meeting/summit in the fall to move forward and
advance operations
- Assess the need for a second round of white papers, focused on actions to
creating a 21st Century operating culture
Summary
Moving forward will entail taking action on each issue. The
overall need is to continue advancement of the associations, continue
advancement of products, continue the discussion on regional operations, develop
regional architectures, work with planners to develop a plan for operations, and
occasionally assess the progress. Reauthorization is a part of improving
transportation operations, but not the only part; we need to continue moving
forward on all fronts.
Discussion:
Many resources are available to Working Group members and
their constituents on the FHWA website. The office has begun work on a redesign
of the FHWA Office of Operations website to make it easier to navigate and
obtain information. The website concept will move away from an office-oriented
structure to a more programmatic structure based on various areas of interest
such as work zones, weather, incident management, and freight. The goal is to
roll out the revamped website at the ITE conference in August.
- Developing cooperative structures will involve a greater focus on
public/private partnerships. The public safety partnership has come a long
way, but there is more to do. The transportation world is now more aware of
the need to communicate with public safety people. The FHWA has activities
that focus on the public and private sectors working together on common
issues. Coordination for the Amber Alert System provides a good example of
private/public cooperation.
- Two different concepts for operations planning have been discussed as part
of the National Dialogue: (1) operations within planning, and (2) planning for
operations. The incorrect assumption was made early in the operations dialogue
that existing planning could not deal with operations. However, a place within
the current planning process to allocate resources for operations does exist.
Often, there are activities that need to take place beyond traditional
planning such as planning for operations during an event. One overall need is
to create a regional table for people to come together and plan for
operations.
- One challenge is in defining the word "operations." Until the National
Dialogue discussion got underway, it was defined in terms of day-to-day
functions such as plowing snow or mowing type activities; and improvements in
that arena are encouraged. As a result of the recent discussion on operations,
there exists a systemic definition of the word "operations" that is sometimes
a challenge for traditional operators to understand. A better term for
systemic operations would achieve greater clarity.
- The FHWA Office of Planning is developing materials to encourage planners
to think of operations during the planning process "a 24/7 look at planning."
- If we cannot answer the question of how to develop a planning for
operations business model, then we have a problem. PTI members raised this as
an issue.
- The lack of available resources will always be an issue. Condition
performance reports now contain operations measures such as the projected
need; however very often needs extend beyond resource availability. Despite
the emphasis on infrastructure agencies are moving towards operations. The
public is talking about operations. Sometimes there is no option but to
improve the operational aspect of existing roads. We need to develop measures
of what advantages can be gained through the better operation of the system.
- The potential to include provisions to the legislation to encourage the
greater consideration for operations is possible.
ITS Data
Ralph Gillman, Federal Highway Administration
Mr. Gillman presentation
emphasized that many different types of ITS data exist, most of them developed
from traffic surveillance. Transit data consists of passenger counts and
automated vehicle location. Traffic incident logs are used with various elements
to help present the full picture. Commercial vehicle operations consist mainly
of weigh in motion technology.
Archived data:
A large amount of data is currently being developed in
real time systems, and sometimes is being discarded. The discarded data can hold
great value if shared across agency and jurisdictional lines. Great potential in
integrating historical data with real time data and using it to predict future
traffic patterns based on real-time flow exists. The FHWA is working to create a
dialogue related to using historical and real time data.
The Advanced Data Management System (ADMS) can be used in coordination with
the Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS) and the Advanced Traffic
Information System (ATMS). The data from the integration of these three systems
can be used for many purposes; including operations and planning in the
traditional sense. Typically we see operations personnel focused on the current
situation. The focus of these personnel needs to shift towards planning beyond
the current situation. For example, the Virginia DOT is saving historic data
from 500 intersections and is using pattern matching to identify if situations
have previously occurred. The VDOT effort focuses on the Hampton Roads area, and
is $1million in scope.
Barriers to integrating historic and real-time data:
- Historic data base needs improvements
- Cost/resources required for data management
- Lack of metadata (data on data)
Resources and Activities:
- Traffic data quality workshops
- White papers on FHWA Electronic Document Library
- Archived Data User Service (ADUS) - Crosscutting study recently begun to
identify any quantifiable benefits of data integration.
- Probe vehicle mobility monitoring
- Guidelines for Developing ITS Data Archiving System http://tti.tamu.edu/products/catalog/reports/2127-3.pdf
Discussion:
The decision to archive data typically depends on the
level of detail. Transportation agencies are looking at the physical perspective
not individuals moving through the system, but there is usually invasion of
privacy concerns.
This effort sounds similar to the GIS data taking place at FHWA, but only in
terms of the ITS standards focus.
Roundtable discussion:
ITS Discussion and How to prepare for the
"ROCC Working Group Session" with Wayne Berman
All Working Group Members
The FHWA is working to shape initiatives
with the Working Group and its constituents on the topic of Regional Operations
Collaboration and Coordination (ROCC). During the February 30 Working Group
meeting a special session focusing on regional coordination was proposed. The
FHWA would like to begin planning for a special session with the Working Group
members. The purpose of the special session is to develop a concept for the
national campaign that can encourage agencies to work better together on
regional issues. Working Group members will help define the national campaign,
develop marketing ideas, and develop action items. The FHWA would like to
solicit your input on format, concept, and potential dates for the special
session. The FHWA will commit the funds needed to implement ideas developed from
the special session.
Discussion:
- Potential dates include April or May
- It could be a morning or afternoon format, similar to the working group
meetings
- A facilitated discussion will bring out concepts and action items to move
forward
- The presentation by Steve Kerr, Executive Director from Northern
Shenandoah Valley Regional Commission during the December 13, 2002 Working
Group meeting is an excellent example of regional coordination and
collaboration.
- The ICMA is holding a focus group in Seattle during the ITE conference,
which will discuss how to foster better coordination and collaboration.
- PTI has initiatives to foster coordination and collaboration.
- Regional collaboration is more prevalent in security initiatives. Emphasis
should be placed on broadening this to other areas, such as ITS and
operations.
Action items:
- Laurie Radow will send an email proposing dates in late May for the
special session.
- Wayne Berman will develop a general concept prior to the next Working
Group meeting.
- Working Group members should develop ideas and plan to participate in the
special session.
- Working Group members should invite their constituents to the special
session and future meetings.
ITS - Update
Peggy Tadej, NARC
- Recently held our Annual Washington Policy Conference, the focus was on
reauthorization.
Robin Mahew, FHWA Office of Planning
- The concept of two definitions of planning is new, and needs to move from
concept into application.
- Currently developing a scope of work on linking planning and operations.
Leslie Wright, National Highway Institute, FHWA
- Six or seven ITS courses are now available.
Michael Montack, AMPO
- Distributed the recently published AMPO Newsletter.
Bill Gouse, ATA
- The trucking association has many ITS initiatives now underway. They
include ITS data for crash investigation and mitigation, modeling programs,
weather prediction, weather reporting, route management, and the Intelligent
Vehicle Initiative.
- ATA is active with the Reauthorization as it pertains to ITS;.
- ATA is greatly involved with security, intermodal containers, and highway
watch initiatives.
Kelly Novak, NADO
- NADO is preparing for its April 13-15 Washington policy conference.
- Federal roundtables will take place on April 15th, providing a
good opportunity to get information out.
- Information on ITS and brownfield redevelopment available at our website.
Bill Browder, AAR
- Like ATA, the AAR is involved with a myriad of security issues.
- Continues to promote regional cooperation.
- Developing standards and practices for light rail in connection with
interfacing operational issues including the MUTCD
- Both APTA and the AAR represent AMTRAK and commuter rails.
- From June 2-5, will hold a weeklong conference on regional cooperation in
Kill Devil Hills, NC.
- The Mid-States Conference in Oklahoma City sponsored by ODOT.
- November 2003 National conference in San Antonio will be so-hosted with
TTI.
- The AAR will continue to welcome opportunities to discuss regional issues
and collaboration
- More information will be available during the May Working Group
meeting.
James Davenport, NACO
- Annual conference in July is in Milwaukee, WI at the same time of the
city's famous circus parade. The meeting theme will include a security focus.
- Second transportation newsletter article published featured an interview
of Steve Kerr of the Northern Shenandoah Valley activities, which is good
model for us to follow.
- NACO is working on data communication protocol issues, security issues
with technological aspects, rural issues.
- On March 21st NADO and NACO are kicking off a rural advocacy
initiative.
ICDN - Update
Interesting articles on the ICDN newsletter
include:
- And Now for the Rest of the Story: Signal Optimization in Greater
Washington, DC -
An interesting piece that includes a discussion with
Andrew Meese from the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments.
- Data Collection, Archiving and Performance Measures:
Why Should
Freeway Operations Care? - The report summarizes key points from a
presentation given by Mark Hallenbeck, the Director of the Washington State
Transportation Center (TRAC).
- Weather Information for Surface Transportation (WIST) -
A National
Needs Assessment Report - Provides a compilation of weather information
needs from six modes of transport: roadway, railway, transit, marine
transport, pipeline, and airport ground operations.
- USDOT and VDOT Support a New Approach to Deriving Traveler Information
from Cell Phones -
Partnership to help fund a feasibility test of a new
approach for deriving travel information from cell phone usage.
Please ensure that news, articles, and reports continue to be submitted
to Jerry Werner for inclusion in the ICDN.
E-Dialogue - Update
AMPO has served as issue leader for two
questions; currently we are looking for other Working Group groups willing to
serve as issue leaders. The focus continues to be policy-oriented questions.
Please contact Laurie Radow if your organization is interested in serving as an
issue leader.
Business Meeting
Ms. Radow thanked all those in attendance, and
thanked the TRB for the use of their facilities.
Next Meeting
Time and Date: 9.45 a.m. - noon; Thursday, May 8,
2003
Location: Association of American Railroads, 50 F St., NW.
Topic and
Speakers: Jon Obenberger, FHWA: HOV Facilities and Special Events
National Associations Working Group for ITS
Transportation
Research Board
500 Fifth Street, N.W., Room 204
Washington, DC 20001
Agenda
Opening Remarks and Introductions
- Rich Cunard, Transportation Research Board (10 minutes)
Operations and Management
ITS Data
- Ralph Gillman, FHWA (15-minute presentation, 10 minutes
discussion)
Roundtable discussion:
ITS Discussion and How to prepare for the
"ROCC Working Group Session" with Wayne Berman
All Working Group members
(20 minute discussion)
ICDN - Update
Laurie Radow (5 minutes)
E-Dialogue - Update
Laurie Radow, FHWA (5 minutes)
Business Meeting
Next Meeting
Date and Time Thursday, May 8, 2003; 9:45 a.m.-12
noon
Location Assoc. of American Railroads, 50 F St., N.W.
Topic and
Speakers Jon Obenberger, FHWA: HOV Facilities and Special Events
National Associations Working Group for ITS
March 20, 2003
Attendees
Michael Montag, Association of Metropolitan Planning
Organizations
Chris Zeilinger, Community Transportation Association of
America
James Davenport, National Association of Counties
Kelly
Novak, National Association of Development Organizations
Peggy Tadej,
National Association of Regional Counties
Rich Cunard,
Transportation Research Board
Russell Houston, Transportation
Research Board
Bob Hicks, Public Technology Inc.
Bill Gouse,
American Trucking Association
Bill Browder, American Association of
Railroads
Jeff Paniati, Federal Highway Administration
Wayne
Berman Federal Highway Administration
Ralph Gillman, Federal
Highway Administration
Robin Mayhew, Federal Highway
Administration
Leslie Wright, Federal Highway Administration
Laurie Radow, Federal Highway Administration
John Mason,
Science Applications International Corporation
Brett Graves,
Science Applications International Corporation
NAWG page
Visitor counts for this
page.
|
