Abstract

This thesis presents the findings of a comprehensive research study conducted for the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) to evaluate the effectiveness of commonly deployed Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) treatments in Utah, with a focus on Variable Message Signs (VMS), traffic cameras, and Road Weather Information System(s) (RWIS) sites. The study aimed to determine the impact of these ITS treatments on mobility and safety for Utah's unique road conditions and configurations. Three primary analyses were performed: a diversion rates analysis to assess the effectiveness of VMS on Utah freeways during incidents; a weather analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of VMS messages on driver speeds in Utah canyons during winter weather; and an ITS attitudes survey to gauge the usage of, attitudes towards, and potential improvements to UDOT's current ITS deployment. The findings of the diversion rates analysis indicate that the activation of VMS messages increase diversion rates by 18 percent and from the weather analysis, a negligible increase of speeds by 0.2 mph was observed. Survey results were largely positive with a high level of ITS usage and benefits reported by UDOT employees. Concerns of general device wear and maintenance were documented. The report provides detailed methodologies, results, conclusions, and recommendations derived from this research, offering valuable insights to guide UDOT's ITS deployment strategies.

Degree

College and Department

Ira A. Fulton College of Engineering; Civil and Environmental Engineering

Rights

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