Project Summary: Real-Time Integration of Arrow Board Messages into Traveler Information Systems

Many DOTs struggle with real-time information being relayed to their users in situations that involve lane closures. Due to the variability in location and duration, real-time integration of arrow board messages into traveler information systems became an item of interest for MnDOT to provide up-to-date data to travelers. This project involved:

• Deployment of an integrated ITS solution to report on the location and operational status of arrow boards in real time to MnDOT's Regional Transportation Management Center (RTMC) systems.
• Integration of the arrow board status information with the MnDOT Intelligent Roadway Information System (IRIS) to alert RTMC operators of lane closures who could then add messaging to nearby dynamic message signs.
• Integration of the arrow board status information with the MnDOT Condition Acquisition and Reporting System (CARS) which provided real-time updates to the traveler information system.

The pilot project involved 20 arrow boards equipped with the status monitoring unit to test displaying real-time information to travelers related to stationary and mobile lane closures.