MDOT accelerates DSRC deployment

Right: MDOT has signed an agreement to offer Michigan International Speedway for the testing and development of connected vehicle systems in an open environment

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) yesterday announced plans to speed the development of next-generation vehicle safety and mobility applications.

The plans include offering Michigan International Speedway for the testing and development of connected vehicle systems in an open environment, and the deployment of advanced technologies along the Telegraph Road corridor in Oakland County.

MDOT has partnered with the Michigan International Speedway (MIS) in Jackson County, to offer the MIS racetrack for the testing and development of connected vehicle systems in an open environment.

The DOT has also committed to activating up to 30 wireless Dedicated Short Range Communications (DSRC) radios to broadcast basic traffic signal information on the Telegraph Road corridor in Oakland County.

Researchers and developers working in southeast Michigan will use the traffic signal information to develop connected vehicle technologies that prevent crashes, and improve mobility and fuel efficiency. Further enhancements will be added in future.

“The connected vehicle concept gives us a unique opportunity to shape the future of transportation by improving safety and mobility on heavily traveled highways and permitting countless other applications that can help us all spend more time with our families and less time on the road,” says state transportation director Kirk T. Steudle.

“These two initiatives,” says Greg Krueger, MDOT Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) program manager, “are unique in that they afford development opportunities to companies of all sizes, from major automakers to new ventures. When we first discussed this concept, we were overwhelmed by the response from leading after-market companies who want to help accelerate the deployment of connected vehicle technology.”
 

27 November 2008