Colorado DOT Extends SpeedInfo Solar-Powered, Doppler Sensor Coverage from Denver to Colorado Springs, Building on Success of Earlier Deployment

SAN JOSE, Calif.--Eager to expand the quality and quantity of traffic information it provides drivers, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has expanded its deployment of SpeedInfo’s Solar-Powered Doppler Sensors to include CO-285 and CO-470 in the Denver area, as well as along I-25 between Denver and Colorado Springs. This deployment brings total roadway miles covered to more than 220 miles.

“Based on the strong performance of SpeedInfo sensors during our first deployment, we chose to expand our system using the same devices. In addition to being easy to install and integrate into our Colorado Transportation Management Systems (CTMS) software, we’ve enjoyed uptime of more than 95 percent”

SpeedInfo’s advanced sensors feed traffic flow information in both directions wirelessly to CDOT, where it is used to continuously update the www.cotrip.org traveler information website. This information helps motorists assess their travel options before making a trip or while en-route. This in turn reduces traffic congestion, provides better information around construction zones and improves safety.

“Based on the strong performance of SpeedInfo sensors during our first deployment, we chose to expand our system using the same devices. In addition to being easy to install and integrate into our Colorado Transportation Management Systems (CTMS) software, we’ve enjoyed uptime of more than 95 percent,�?? said Ali Imansepahi, Resident Engineer – ITS Branch at CDOT. “As a result of its mobility and ease of set up, CDOT is considering SpeedInfo sensors to gauge traffic flow during several upcoming construction projects in the mountains.�??

CDOT’s earlier deployment of SpeedInfo sensors took place along I-25, I-70, I-76, I-225, I-270 and US-36, all in the Denver area (I-25 corridor actually covers a 75 mile stretch to the City of Colorado Springs). Imansepahi noted at the time, “We maintain high reliability with real-time accuracy. The system meets our needs for the type of quick decision making necessary for accurate TMC response and traveler information systems.�??

“CDOT continues to enhance its traffic management capabilities by adding coverage and capability to its existing traffic sensor networks. With a sharp focus on technology that meets its needs for accuracy, reliability, flexibility and financial efficiency, the CDOT Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) team is providing Denver area drivers with one of the most comprehensive traveler information systems in the country,�?? said Charlie Armiger, SpeedInfo’s Vice President of Program Development.

“In addition, CDOT must contend with harsh winter weather conditions and rugged terrain while supporting heavy travel to mountain ski destinations. We are pleased to have been selected by CDOT to help support its important mission of improving safety and mobility on Colorado roads.�??

How SpeedInfo’s Technology Works

SpeedInfo’s Doppler radar sensors are mounted on light or signage poles. Sensors are located every one-half to one mile and collect traffic speed information continuously. Sensors forward data to the SpeedInfo Traffic Data Server via the AT&T Wireless^® data network with virtually no latency. SpeedInfo servers format the data for delivery to customers via the Internet. The data is available from SpeedInfo servers in a standard XML format, or if required, specialized formats. Unlike other solutions that are capital intensive, expensive, difficult to deploy, and provide inaccurate data, SpeedInfo’s sensors install easily on existing infrastructure. Highway crews can cover as many as 15 miles of highway a day with no lane closures or disruption to traffic.

About SpeedInfo

SpeedInfo is a leading innovator of real-time traffic data networks and has deployed more than 1,000 sensors on critical Interstate and arterial routes throughout the U.S. In addition to providing advanced traffic sensor technology, SpeedInfo server software and network expertise combine to create a commercial data infrastructure that eliminates existing problems with data latency, reliability and comprehensive coverage. In addition to state and local Departments of Transportation and Metro Planning Organizations, SpeedInfo customers include mass media organizations that provide traffic information that radio and television networks broadcast to consumers, traffic aggregation companies, and mobile traffic application developers. Founded in 2002, SpeedInfo is headquartered in San Jose, Calif. For more information, please visit www.speedinfo.com.

About the Colorado Department of Transportation

The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is responsible for a 9,134 mile highway system, including 3,406 bridges. Each year, this system handles over 48 billion vehicle miles of travel. Although the Interstate system accounts for only about 10 percent (913 miles) of the total mileage on the state system, 40 percent of all travel takes place on Interstate highways.

CDOT maintenance forces take care of the highway system, plowing snow and repairing pavement. Last winter, these men and women plowed 7.2 million miles of highway. They also repaired road damage and potholes, using more than 248,000 tons of asphalt and 178,800 gallons of liquid asphalt in preservation activities. For more information, please visit: http://www.dot.state.co.us/