Project Title:   EASTERN KENTUCKY RURAL HIGHWAY INFORMATION PROJECT
     
Project Status:   In Progress
     
Project Type:   Deployment/Integration
     
Project Description:   This project is the FY 2002 ITS Integration Program earmark for Eastern Kentucky. The project will contribute to the implementation of a component of Kentucky's Statewide 511 Telephone Inform System which provides traffic, construction and weather-related information. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (Cabinet) is developing a partnership agreement with the Southern and Eastern Kentucky Tourism Development Association (SEKTDA). SEKTDA, which serves 52 Kentucky counties, will add 511 premium services to the Cabinet's system in the form of Tourist Information. A summary of primary tasks associated with implementation of Tourist Information in Southern and Eastern Kentucky as a 511 Premium Service include:

- Modification and acquisition of software needed to forward calls seeking tourist information to the SEKTDA call centers.

- Implementation of telephone service.

- Deployment of roadside signs alerting motorists about the 511 service.

- Independent evaluation by the University of Kentucky.

- Acquisition of Call Center equipment.

- Tourism marketing.

In March 2003, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet revised the project scope to focus on establishment of a 511 Premium Service Package that will build on, and be integrated with, the existing infrastructure for Kentucky's 511 system.

Matching funds for this project will be provided in the form of Toll Road Credits in lieu of cash.

In July 2003 an additional $1,456,505 was approved for this project as the FY 2003 ITS Integration Program earmark for Kentucky. The additional funding will build on, expand and continue the project originated as the FY 2002 earmark. The funding will support the design and installation of a Kentucky-based 511 Call Center. Federal ITS funds obligated in FY 2003 will be matched by $169,943 of Capital Construction Funds and $1,286,562 of Toll Road Credits.
     
Project Location:   42 Counties in Eastern and Southern Kentucky
     
Project Partner(s):   FHWA, Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Southern and Eastern Kentucky Tourism Development Association (SEKTDA), University of Kentucky Transportation Center
     
Project Start Date:   December 2002
     
Project End Date:   March 2006
     
Estimated Total ITS Funds:   $3,111,142
     
Estimated Total Project Cost:   $4,567,647

Project Contacts:    
     
Michael Loyselle
FHWA Kentucky Division, HDA-KY
(502) 223-6734
Charles Knowles
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet
(502) 564-4556



U.S. Department of Transportation, Intelligent Transportation Systems