Hands on control New South Wales Transport Management Centre

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1 Hands on control New South Wales Transport Management Centre

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3 Hands on control New South Wales' Transport Management Centre Meeting the challenge 02 An integrated approach Traffic management of incidents and events Traffic information Network operations Information, analysis, response, action 04 Managing incidents 05 State-of-the-art tools 06 SCATS: Real-time traffic management Tidal flows 08 Traffic monitoring cameras Keeping in touch 10 Reporting incidents Traffic information Variable message signs 11 Web-based information On the road emergency action 12 Working togther 14 Special events 15 Special event management Sydney 2000 Olympic Games Contacting the TMC 16 The NSW Roads and Traffic Authority aims to deliver a-safe, efficient and cost-effective road network for all road-users public transport passengers, motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.

4 Meeting the challenge The Roads and Traffic Authority s Transport Management Centre (TMC) monitors and manages the New South Wales road network 24 hours a day. It aims to ensure the 180,000km network operates with maximum efficiency, including during peak commuter travel times, special events and following unplanned incidents such as vehicle accidents. The TMC uses advanced monitoring, communication and traffic flow systems. These systems aim to make journey times more consistent, respond to and clear traffic incidents as fast as possible and with quality, up-to-date information, help road users choose the best routes, travel times, and modes of travel. An integrated approach Effective traffic management, particularly during road incidents, is a multi-agency activity that relies heavily on communication, co-ordination and close partnerships with other services and communities. Through integrated traffic management, the TMC provides a new level of sophistication to the road incident management process, infrastructure planning and day-today traffic operations. The TMC has three core services: Traffic management of incidents and events: Monitoring incidents as they occur on the road network, and responding to and managing the associated traffic impacts. An important part of the TMC s charter is support of on-road special events, such as parades, and running and cycling races, so that normal traffic is disrupted as little as possible. Traffic Information: The TMC serves as the State s traffic communications exchange. By collecting and analysing information, TMC staff evaluate and report on traffic conditions to enable road users to make the best travel decisions. Network operations: The TMC is responsible for developing and co-ordinating electronic traffic control devices, including traffic signals, variable message signs, movable medians, pedestrian access, and bus priority systems to maximise the safety and efficiency of the road network. The TMC s expertise and knowledge also contributes to long-term transport and infrastructure planning, driver awareness, education and training programs. 4.4 million licensed drivers using 4.8 million registered vehicles Rigid trucks 14% Utilities and vans 6% Motorcycles 2% Other 1% 02 14% Trailers 63% Passenger vehicles Speed and traffic volume trends for seven major routes to and from Sydney s Central Business District.

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6 Information, analysis, response, action At the heart of the Transport Management Centre is the 350m 2 Transport Operations Room (TOR). The TOR is operated 24 hours a day by staff working two 12-hour shifts. It s in this room that all of the TMC s statewide monitoring, reporting and control functions are carried out. Key features of the TOR include: A highly sophisticated video switching system enabling around 700 closed circuit television (CCTV) sites across NSW to be viewed and remotely moved. A 24-panel video wall, which is supplemented by 30 large-scale monitors that allow computer-based graphics, mapping and reporting functions to be integrated and displayed. 18 dedicated operator consoles providing operators access to real-time traffic information. Fully integrated voice-based communications so operators can simultaneously manage phone calls and radio traffic across the RTA and Police radio networks. The Central Management Computer System (CMCS), as the TMC s backbone, integrates all the operating and intelligent traffic management systems. As the core incident management system, CMCS analyses field data and provides for an efficient and effective response. For example, it s from here that around 200 variable message signs (VMS) are programmed with traffic information and telephone calls about accidents and incidents are received. When an incident occurs, CMCS analyses the affected area and prompts operators to apply predefined incident response plans, which include controlling VMS, variable speed limit signs and CCTV. 04 The Transport Operations Room. CMCS major applications Incident management Information dissemination Traffic monitoring Incident detection Motorway management Fault management

7 Fast access to geographic information using Street Finder, RTA-developed software that enables TMC staff to quickly locate intersections, streets and suburbs. The system also displays images aerial photographs or street maps as well as specific transport maps such as Traffic Emergency Patrol and clearway towing routes. Sydney Co-ordinated Adaptive Traffic System (SCATS), an area-based traffic control system that responds to changes in traffic flow by adjusting traffic signal green time. In NSW, SCATS controls over 3,400 traffic signals. Dedicated operators from public transport providers and the NSW Police. Managing incidents In order to effectively manage incidents on NSW roads, some or all of the following eight tools are used. CCTV VMS SCATS incident reporting line RTA Traffic Commander RTA Traffic Emergency Patrol Visual monitoring, communications and SCATS (left) also play an integral role in incident management. Traffic cones Police response 05

8 State-of-the-art tools Innovative and sophisticated tools help the RTA manage the statewide road network, enabling more predictable traffic flows and effective incident management. In-road sensors supply the local SCATS controller with traffic flow data including vehicle size and the space between vehicles. Following analysis, SCATS adjusts signal times accordingly. Loop occupancy In-road sensors SCATS: Real-time traffic management The Sydney Co-ordinated Adaptive Traffic System (SCATS) is an innovative traffic management system, developed by the RTA to co-ordinate the traffic signal network. The system is able to react to changing traffic conditions by adjusting the phasing of each traffic light cycle. Across NSW, more than 3,400 traffic signals are co-ordinated, monitored and managed by SCATS. Traffic flow and volume are measured at each intersection by sensors embedded in the road. Regional computers analyse this information, calculate the best possible traffic signal timings, co-ordinate intersections, and adjust the signal times accordingly. SCATS can also operate in a fall back or isolated mode if necessary. The system provides an automatic alert service should problems occur, such as faults or failures in detectors or traffic lights. TOR operators can manually override the automatic operation as required; for example, when managing traffic around incidents. As a computer-based system, SCATS can function from a single PC managing up to 250 intersections, and grow up to a central server managing a computer network with 8,192 intersections. First developed by the RTA in the 1970s as a management tool for Sydney s roads, SCATS has since been sold and installed to manage traffic in more than 80 cities worldwide - including Singapore, Hong Kong, Dublin, Tehran and Minneapolis and Detroit in the USA. 06 SCATS controller Space between vehicles Right: Sophisticated systems help manage NSW roads.

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10 State-of-the-art tools Tidal flows On Sydney s key road routes, traffic follows a predictable pattern across different times of the day. Tidal flow traffic systems have been developed to increase the number of available lanes during peak times and maximise traffic flow. There are currently four automatic tidal flow systems in place in Sydney: at Neutral Bay (Military Road), Sydenham (Princes Highway), Kyeemagh (General Holmes Drive & Airport Tunnel) and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Movable and motorised medians a feature of the M5-East s innovative tidal flows. Manual tidal flow systems are also used across Sydney. Tidal flow systems were pioneered on the Sydney Harbour Bridge (SHB) in the late 1940s. Fully automated systems were introduced in With more than 175,000 vehicles crossing per day, the tidal flow system is a critical part of managing the traffic on the SHB. The latest version of the SHB tidal flow uses several automated systems to ensure effective and safe changes in traffic direction. The Electronic Lane Changing System (ELCS) controls the flow of eight lanes of bridge traffic and is managed remotely from the TMC by dedicated SHB traffic controllers. ELCS integrates the use of electronic overhead signage, automatic movable medians and in-pavement lighting to adjust traffic direction an average of five times per day in four different configurations. With the opening of the M5 East Freeway, an innovative tidal flow system was developed to manage merging traffic. A semi-automated system provides an extra lane through the Airport Tunnel. The system uses motorised and movable medians, relocatable medians, pavement lighting, overhead lane lights and electronic signs. Traffic monitoring cameras The TMC s network of 700 CCTV cameras monitors traffic throughout key locations in Sydney and along 800 kilometres of the Pacific Highway as well as other parts of NSW. The cameras are linked to the TOR via a computerised video control system. The primary role of CCTV is to help the TMC manage incidents and monitor traffic flows. The cameras can be remotely controlled from the TMC and have the capacity to pan, tilt and zoom. This allows TMC operators to monitor key traffic areas, respond to incidents and adjust traffic flows if required. CCTV is also used to detect incidents on particularly hazardous parts of the road network, including the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Harbour Tunnel, ANZAC Bridge and the M4 Motorway. It is also possible to exchange images with other agencies, including the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority, during major events. 08 Right: Combining technology and public transport planning to improve and monitor traffic flow.

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12 Keeping in touch An important part of the TMC s role is to provide accurate and timely information to motorists to ensure they can make the best travel decisions. Each year the TMC receives over 220,000 calls from the community reporting traffic incidents and conditions. This two-way communication is a critical part of Sydney s daily traffic management. Reporting incidents Every year more than 220,000 people call the TMC s dedicated line to report traffic incidents. The line is a valuable information source, with around 20% of incident alerts originating from public reports. When a call comes in, the Integrated Radio and Telephony System (IRTS) ensures that operational staff can effectively respond to these calls. IRTS combines the operations of the telephone system with control of the Government Radio Network. With a touch of a screen, operators can alert emergency crews of traffic incidents. Traffic information Real-time traffic information is communicated through the TMC s Traffic Information Line. Staff update the Traffic Information Line 24 hours a day with information on traffic incidents such as vehicle VMS promoting : a success On the M4 Motorway, VMS have been used to promote the incident-reporting hotline The M4 was one of the first NSW roads with five large, permanent variable message signs. Today, the public is the major source of incident information on the M4. Variable speed limit signs on the M5 East Freeway. Source of incidents and detection Number of reports % CCTV Media & other sources Public RTA Source of reports All roads M4 Traffic Commanders & Patrol TMC staff & systems State Transit Police (VKG)

13 accidents, road closures, major roadworks and special events. An option is also available to speak directly to an operator should the need arise. Variable message signs Variable message signs (VMS) and variable speed limit signs (VSLS) are real-time traffic communications tools that help reduce delays, keep traffic flowing smoothly and improve driver safety. When important traffic information is received, a network of 200 electronic signs is programmed and remotely updated in the TOR. VMS are strategically placed around Sydney and linked to the TMC via either ISDN or fibre optic cables. VMS are used to let motorists know if there are delays ahead or changes to traffic arrangements. When the signs are not needed to manage traffic, they serve as an important addition to the RTA s road safety awareness program. The same technology is used for VSLS. In place along the M4 Motorway in Sydney s west, the M5 East Freeway and General Holmes Drive to Sydney s south, controllers at the TMC can vary speed limits based on traffic volumes, unfavourable road or weather conditions, and incidents. Web-based information Using the Internet as a communications tool to receive and deliver real-time information is a priority for the TMC. The best way to provide advice to motorists is via their car radio and the TMC has found the most efficient way to provide real-time traffic information to radio broadcasters is via the internet. To prepare the web information, IRIS: records and classes incidents according to pre-determined criteria such as the number of lanes on a road, how many lanes are closed and the length of expected delays; prompts TMC staff to provide complete information about events using a database with drop-down menu options; and quickly presents information in a concise, clear format. The TMC-developed IRIS (Incident Reporting Internet Service) provides a 24-hour web-based information service. IRIS is a web page catering specifically to radio stations. On average, IRIS provides 1,200 traffic reports a month. Type of Type incident of incident reported reported on IRIS on in IRIS 2004 in 2001 Real-time information for road users. 11

14 On the road emergency action Accidents, breakdowns, debris and spillages, adverse weather conditions and natural disasters such as bushfires all have an impact on the road network. Many of these incidents require on-the-spot management by specialised RTA staff. The RTA s Traffic Commanders and Traffic Emergency Patrols (TEPs) are on the road, ready to provide support as incidents arise. They protect the incident scene until Police arrive, minimise the risk to others, manage traffic and provide assistance to other support agencies requiring access to the site. There are 10 Traffic Commanders patrolling Sydney, with additional resources employed in regional NSW. Their primary role is to manage traffic around incidents and return roads to normal after an incident. Traffic Commanders responsibilities include: collecting information and relaying it to the TMC for analysis and response; requesting traffic management resources and co-ordinating them at incidents; taking command of the traffic management arrangements around incidents; liaising with other response agencies such as the Police and Fire Brigade; and helping clear the roads and normalising surrounding traffic flow. Eight fully equipped, road-based TEP crews are also on the road in key locations across Sydney. They provide support to emergency services and motorists, help maintain traffic flow by setting up traffic controls, and assist in clearing incidents and repairing roads. In addition, a team of dedicated towing staff with eight trucks help clear breakdowns and incidents at key locations, including the Sydney Harbour Bridge and ANZAC Bridge. 12

15 TEPs attend more than 30,000 incidents a year. 13

16 Working together Working in partnership with other key service providers is essential in providing an efficient, integrated traffic management system. For special events and emergency management, the TMC partners closely with other government agencies and service providers, including the NSW Police, NSW Fire Brigades, the Ambulance Service of NSW, State Emergency Service, State Transit Authority, Ministry of Transport and Local Government Authorities. All agencies work together to maximise the safety and efficiency of the road network. Working closely with key emergency services helps traffic run smoothly during incidents, special events, emergencies and natural disasters. Liaison officers from the NSW Police are permanently based at the TMC to facilitate a close working relationship. The TMC also works with the State Transit Authority (STA) to assist efficient bus travel along major roads. Bus priority initiatives include red bus lanes, transit lanes and bus stop bays, and the recently-trialled Public Transport Information Priority System (PTIPS). PTIPS integrates the bus service and timetables with SCATS so priority and longer green traffic light time are given to buses running late. 17 STA radio operators are stationed in the TMC s TOR, monitoring the road network and keeping bus drivers informed about traffic conditions. Photo: News Ltd 14 The TMC works closely with NSW Police and other emergency services. Efficient public transport is a TMC priority.

17 Major road closures require extensive planning. Special events Successful traffic management during special events relies on close working relationships between event organisers, State Government agencies and local councils. Special events include parades, sporting events such as fun-runs and marathons, or major off-road events with large crowds, such as the annual Sydney Festival Opera in the Park. The TMC puts in place appropriate traffic management arrangements to minimise the impact of special events on the road network and inform road users of changed traffic conditions. The TMC s special event management includes: temporary road closures and special event clearways to maximise efficient traffic flow around events; special traffic arrangements for events where roads are partially occupied for construction, heavy plant and filming. Over 12,000 applications for these road occupancies are approved at the TMC every year; adjustment of traffic lights to move traffic efficiently around events; community notification through newspaper advertisements, the Internet, the Traffic Information Line and letterbox drops to assist people with travel plans; and green light corridors to enable fast and safe road transport for special vehicles such as organ deliveries. Special event resources such as planning guidelines and checklists are available on the RTA s website to help organisers plan and conduct their events in a way that minimises disruption to local residents, businesses, hospitals and the emergency services. Sydney 2000 Olympic Games In 2000, Sydney faced its biggest ever transport challenge: efficiently moving more than 6 million spectators, 15,000 athletes and officials, 18,000 media and large crowds of tourists and sightseers during the Olympics. A key to the best-ever Olympic transport was the TMC, which served as the control centre for transport operations and communications. Three years of detailed planning resulted in the development of a strategic Olympic road network covering 140kms, including 10 primary routes used to transport athletes, a network of 21 bus routes to the competition centres and key transport locations and comprehensive management plans to support Olympic road events and celebrations in central Sydney. An additional 500km of clearways were introduced to ensure Olympic traffic ran smoothly and that athletes had speedy access to all competition venues. The TMC was critical to this extraordinary transport operation. Trains, buses and ferries carried record numbers of passengers and more than 4.6 million people travelled to Sydney Olympic Park by public transport. Women s Triathlon at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. 15

18 Contacting the TMC For further information please contact: Transport Management Centre 25 Garden Street, Eveleigh NSW 2015, Australia T: (61) F: (61) Postal address: PO Box 1625, Strawberry Hills NSW 2012, Australia Report traffic incidents Traffic Information Line Peak hour tidal flow system on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Transport Management Centre at Eveleigh. 16

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20 Copyright 2005 NSW Roads and Traffic Authority RTA/Pub