Advanced Technology Applications in Chicago‐Area Freeway Traffic Management Program

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) operates a model freeway traffic management program in the Chicago area. There are three major parts to the IDOT program: (1) The traffic systems center; (2) the communications center; and (3) the emergency traffic patrol. With Chicago‐area expressway traffic peaking above 300,000 vehicles per day in some sections, this program helps maintain urban‐area mobility while promoting safety for 2,000,000 daily trips. This paper describes the overall IDOT program developed since 1961, with emphasis on the real‐time “advanced technology” applications. Although many of these applications are not really “advanced,” the entire program is perceived as “advanced” by most observers, including the public, media, and other government agencies.