| Project Title: |
DIRECT - PHASE III |
|
| Project Status: | In Progress | |
| Project Type: |
Operational Test |
|
| Project Description: | This project is a follow-on phase to the Driver Information Radio using Experimental Technologies (DIRECT) operational test. This operational test deployed and evaluated several alternative low-cost methods of communicating advisory information to motorists. Alternatives employed included Radio Broadcast Data Systems FM Subcarrier, Automatic Highway Advisory, Low Power Highway Advisory Radio and cellular phones. The Michigan Intelligent Transportation Systems Center collected and fused information from various sources and generated traffic advisory updates to travelers. Phase II involved an Emergency Warning System. The emergency vehicles such as Ambulance, Police and Fire would be able to warn the travelers through the car radio, as they approach those vehicles by using a specially designed transmitter. The transmitter designed and prototyped by one of the partners in the project was using 87.9MHz frequency. FCC denied the application requesting the license due to a conflict. The FCC's disapproval of the 87.9MHz application terminated Phase II activity. Phase II remains administratively open pending receipt of a lessons learned report. Phase III resumes project activity with Michigan Department of Transportation's proposal to consider the test as a special application under the 5.9GHz dedicated frequency band which has been agreed to by the DSRC Standard Working Group. The new scope, specifications and project plans are being developed. FHWA has approved the proposed change to proceed. | |
| Project Location: | Along sections of I-75 and I-94 in the Detroit, Michigan area | |
| Project Partner(s): | Michigan DOT, Ford Motor Company, Federal Signal Corp., Visteon, AAA of Michigan, Smart Route Systems, Michigan Courtesy Patrol, Ann Arbor Police and Fire, and Huron Valley Ambulance Co. | |
| Project Start Date: | May 1999 | |
| Project End Date: | June 2004 | |
| Estimated Total ITS Funds: | $1,000,000 | |
| Estimated Total Project Cost: | $2,000,000 |
| Project Contacts: | ||
Larry Swartzlander |
FHWA Headquarters, HOTM |
(202) 366-6066 |
Ext. |
Morrie Hoevel |
FHWA Michigan Division, HDA-MI |
(517) 702-1834 |
Ext. |
Kunwar Rajendra |
Michigan DOT |
(517) 335-2893 |
Ext. |