Synthesis of Customer Needs from Rural Traveler Information Surveys

The value of traveler information has been recognized in numerous studies over varying classes of roadway users, primarily in the context of urban congestion. However, rural transportation challenges can create a similar value for traveler information. User surveys are one way of assessing the value of traveler information provided by transportation agencies. In this paper, user surveys culled from a variety of research projects conducted in the western United States, are reviewed and analyzed to better understand the rural traveler’s information needs. Key findings indicate that the information most important to travelers was information related to road, weather and construction conditions. While broadcast media and the telephone were the primary methods preferred by travelers for accessing this information, there was also a notable increase in the use of intelligent transportation systems (ITS) technologies. Respondents indicated that they might adjust their travel times or consider alternate routes based on information they had obtained through these technologies. All of the technologies evaluated received favorable ratings for accuracy and usefulness.