Title
Traffic Management System (B)
This item is to request authorization to purchase traffic management system equipment and service from TrafficCast, Temple, Miovision, and Rhythm Engineering. *ESTIMATED STAFF PRESENTATION 20 MINUTES*
Explanation
The Public Works Department is nearing final completion of the Traffic Management System (TMS) installation. During implementation several value engineering strategies were utilized including selection of newer, less expensive equipment and technologies and utilizing in-house staff in lieu of contractors when possible. These strategies have resulted in cost savings over estimated costs.
A component of the TMS as originally envisioned is the ability to evaluate and monitor performance of existing signal timings along corridors to ensure we are optimizing travel times. Newer technology provides real time arterial travel time systems to monitor corridor performance and adaptive traffic signal control systems. Through various methods, vehicles can now be tracked using roadway sensors with travel times reported to the traffic management system operators as well as the public.
TrafficCast is a Bluetooth based system. The TrafficCast system collects wireless Bluetooth signatures from passing vehicles. In addition, small roadway type signs would be installed to alert motorists of current travel times as detected using the TrafficCast system. These signs are distributed by Temple, Inc.
The Adaptive Traffic Signal Control (ATSC) system utilized by the TMS has the ability to collect data in real time and make adjustments to traffic signal timings using advanced algorithms. In addition to the current traffic signal vendor, Naztec, Inc, staff would like to pilot two additional ATSC systems. The InSync System from Rhythm Engineering attempts to provide two-way arterial coordination as well as minimize side street delay. Most of the complaints that the TMS receives today are regarding side street delay. The Miovision "Spectrum" system is another up and coming adaptive system that staff would like to pilot. If the testing for both pilot projects proves successful, Public Works will likely seek to expand ATSC systems to other locations in the City deemed to justify ATSC. The Rhythm Engineering system will be procured via a competitively bid state contract and the Miovision Spectrum system with a sole source.
Fiscal Note
Funding is available from the appropriation for the Traffic Management System (TMS) in the CIRB of the 2005 Capital Project Fund, FDOT - TRIP Grant account, Campus Development funds, and 8051 and 8052 annual operating budgets in the amount of approximately $1,500,000. Following the initial purchase at an estimated cost of $320,000, additional items will be purchased over multiple years as equipment replacements are needed throughout the Traffic Management System.
Recommendation
The City Commission: 1) hear a presentation from staff; 2) approve the purchase of the equipment and/or services from the above vendors; and 3) authorize the City Manager to execute all necessary documents, subject to approval by the City Attorney as to form and legality.