REGIONAL OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE OF TRAFFIC SYSTEMS PHASE I: FEASIBILITY STUDY

This report summarizes the results of several initiatives regarding the ongoing support of arterial management systems within the region, including a stakeholder survey, case studies that assess the experience of other regions, and a regional stakeholder forum, held August 14, 2001. It also contains findings and recommendations. Arterial management systems can be an effective component in a regional strategy to reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, and enhance safety. To facilitate the deployment of arterial management systems within the region, the Minnesota Department of Transportation Metro Division led the development of the Metropolitan Arterial ITS Deployment Plan, completed in August 2000. During plan development, it became apparent that success would depend not only on a sound deployment strategy but also on the ongoing support of arterial operations and system maintenance. Agencies within the region regularly and successfully develop inter-jurisdictional agreements to conduct operations and maintenance. This study builds on these successful inter-jurisdictional agreements and investigates other strategies for addressing operations and maintenance issues as an entire region, including the feasibility of a regional operations and maintenance program. This report outlines the activities and findings of the efforts' first phase.