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Automated Work Zone Information System updates travelers with real-time work zone traveler information on I-15 in Devore, California; reduces peak-hour traffic delays by up to 50%.In October 2004, the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) conducted a ‘Rapid Rehab’ project on a heavily traveled section of Interstate I-15 in Devore, California. In order to rebuild a 2.8 mile stretch of roadway in 18 days, round-the-clock (24/7) counter-flow lane operations were performed, a public outreach campaign was undertaken, and Automated Work Zone Information System (AWIS) technologies were deployed to limit traffic disruption.The AWIS provided real-time travel information to road users and encouraged diversion to less congested alternate routes during periods of heavy congestion in the work zone. A central computer system collected speed data from roadside detectors, estimated current travel times, and posted work zone travel information on dynamic message signs (DMS) and a project website. The AWIS provided updated travel time information every 10 minutes and displayed one of six different messages depending on the level of congestion detected in the work zone. When congestion was categorized as severe, and travel time estimates exceeded 50 minutes, the central computer system automatically crosschecked traffic conditions on alternate routes to determine if a detour recommendation was warranted. If the alternate route was experiencing free flow conditions, the detour recommendation was displayed in a flashing sequence with the work zone travel time information (e.g., “TRAVEL TIME 50 MIN FROM I-15/I-210 TO SR-138” and “DETOUR TO I-10 EAST”). To evaluate system performance, traffic data were monitored along the work zone corridor, detour freeways, and the adjacent arterials before and during construction. The results of the evaluation showed that AWIS operations reduced weekday average daily traffic (ADT) volume in the work zone by 16-19%, and increased the ADT on alternate routes by 10-15%. Overall, the AWIS operation contributed to an estimated 50% decrease in the maximum delay during weekday peak hours. See the related ITS Benefits Database entry for more information. Past "Benefit of the Month" summaries are also available. Last Modified: 06/30/2006
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