Advanced Traffic Management Systems

50 Miles Along I-495 North of the MassPike

This intelligent transportation systems design build Project involved designing and building a 50-mile-long network of 29 cameras, 2 variable message signs, and 4 traffic counting stations along I-495 to provide more visibility to the traveling public for MassDOT traffic management personnel. 

The design innovation during the design process made this project a success. Through multiple site meetings between construction personnel and design personnel, we developed the best path for the fiber optic backbone and each camera and innovative ways to install each camera. Utilizing Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV or Drones) equipped with GPS, we could replicate the camera view in dozens of locations and precisely choose the best location. Utilizing a spider plow (pictured above), we could install thousands of feet of conduit daily without removing the guardrail or signage. Utilizing horizontal directional drilling (HDD), we could cross I-495 without impacting traffic. By using the existing fiber-optic infrastructure, we were able to develop a redundant path back to the Highway operations center and provide a bulletproof network. To complete this project, we had to submit a notice of intent of conservation to 17 different cities and towns. In addition, we had to coordinate with 6 other utility companies to bring power to the various locations. An NET TCP-based quality control plan was implemented in this project. A SharePoint site was utilized to manage documents, and a cost and resource-loaded schedule was developed.