Comparative Analysis Report: The Benefits of Using Intelligent Transportation Systems in Work Zones

This report presents the results of a Federal Highway Administration study that examined the use of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) for work zone traffic management. Congestion and safety issues often arise in and around work zones as agencies work to implement necessary construction and maintenance projects. Degraded facilities, narrowed lanes, and lane restrictions often result in unpredictable, unstable traffic flow. With recent efforts that focus on improving work zone operations, including the recently implemented Work Zone Safety and Mobility Rule, State Departments of Transportation (DOTs) are looking to tools and applications that can help improve mobility and safety by actively managing traffic through the work zone. ITS applications are one tool that agencies can use to mitigate traffic impacts caused by construction.