As a start, the map shown here identifies a few possible ITS elements for the region.
Items 1A and 1B are the Georgia DOT field offices, where maintenance trucks are dispatched. Also anticipated for storage in these locations might be one or more portable/solar-powered Changeable Message Signs. If fitted with GPS and other equipment, maintenance vehicles can be better tracked for exact location and maintenance/fuel needs. Vehicle tracking might be paramount in a winter weather or other emergency situation.
Item 2 are the routes in blue – GA 60 and US 19/129. These are very mountainous routes and might be candidates for truck rollover warning systems on sharp curves, possibly deer detection devices or other warning systems to slow vehicles to a safe and appropriate speed.
Item 3 identifies some of the river crossings near Ellijay, Blue Ridge and Dahlonega for which flood detection devices and/or cameras might be considered.
Other Rural ITS elements are not specific to a particular location or locations. Using my June 27 post as a template…
There is a current on-demand transit system based in Jasper that appears to serve Ellijay and Blue Ridge as well. IntelliDrive technology adds the ability to better communicate with rural transit vehicles.
511 and portable DMS are the two most viable solutions for traveler information in the region. Although GDOT is not currently using the technology, Traveler Advisory Radio might be another good option for limited area broadcast. IntelliDrive technology adds the ability to sent target and relevant messages to vehicles in a particular geography.
Especially between Dahlonega and Blairsville, a road closure would require some significant activity to mitigate delays. The use of portable message signs and 511 would assist state and local police and GDOT get the message out and manage temporary detours. IntelliDrive technology would add in-vehicle messages and alternate routing capabilities.
Much of the area is rural and remote and access to emergency or public safety agencies is limited. IntelliDrive technology (similar to what is currently available with OnStar-type systems) would improve incident detection, validation and response.
5. Road Weather Data Collection
Mountainous areas are prone to icing and fog. Some areas might be flood-prone. There are currently ITS devices available to detect areas of fog and rising water and communicate this information to the appropriate resonders. IntelliDrive technology shifts the ability to gather relevant data from probes on individual vehicles.
6. Maintenance/Construction
Winter Maintenance
Roadway Maintenance and Construction
Vehicle and Equipment Tracking
Maintenance and Construction Vehicle Maintenance
Work Zone Management
Work Zone Safety Monitoring
The key to using ITS in each of the above user services is the placement of GPS tracking in DOT vehicles. In addition, each of the ITS tools mentioned already in this post (traditional and IntelliDrive) have a role.
