Frequently Asked Questions
What is SMART SunGuide?
System Management for Advanced Roadway T
echnologies
SMART SunGuide is Florida Department of Transportation, District 4's Intelligent Transportation System (ITS). ITS is the
application of computers, electronics, communications, and other technologies in managing transportation systems more efficiently and
safely and providing mobility options. In other words, SMART SunGuide is a system used to more effectively manage the highways.
The system includes closed-circuit television cameras, electronic message signs, traffic detectors, and traveler information
services such as 511.
How does SMART SunGuide work?
Using the camera images displayed on the video wall in the control center and the Road Ranger Service Patrol, Transportation
Management Center Operators continually monitor conditions on the highways. The information collected is then communicated via the
overhead message signs, website, and 511 to help drivers make informed travel decisions. The information is also used to notify the
appropriate response agencies when incidents occur.
How does SMART SunGuide benefit me?
The most obvious benefit of the system is the availability of information via the website and 511 which allows motorists to plan
their travel before hitting the road. Other benefits include providing warning messages on the 31 Dynamic Message Signs to alert
drivers approaching a crash or disabled vehicle. These warnings give motorists the opportunity to divert as well as forewarn of
unanticipated back-ups helping to reduce secondary accidents.
Early detection of incidents results in shorter response time by emergency agencies and lessens the amount of time drivers sit in
traffic. The system is also used to assist with AMBER Alerts.
What is an AMBER Alert and is it related to SMART SunGuide?
The FLORIDA AMBER PLAN, or the Florida Missing Child Alert, is intended to disseminate critical information relating to predatory
child abductions to the general public in a timely manner via radio, television, and Dynamic Message Signs.
SMART SunGuide, in conjunction with Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), posts AMBER Alert information on the electronic
message signs on the highway and on the website.
The public plays a key role in the success of the AMBER Plan. If you see or hear an AMBER Alert be on the lookout for the missing
child and the suspect's vehicle. The alert will always include a telephone number. If you are unsure of the number. dial 911.
For more information on the Florida AMBER Plan click to visit
FDLE's website.
ITS, TMC, ATMS... How can I find out what they all mean?
| ATIS |
Advanced Traveler Information System |
| ATMS |
Advanced Traffic Management System |
| AVL |
Automatic Vehicle Locator |
| BCT |
Broward County Transit |
| BCTED |
Broward County Traffic Engineering Division |
| BSO |
Broward Sheriff's Office |
| CCTV |
Closed Circuit Television (Camera) |
| DMS |
Dynamic Message Sign |
| EOC |
Emergency Operations Center |
| FDOT |
Florida Department of Transportation |
| FHP |
Florida Highway Patrol |
| FMS |
Freeway Management System |
| HAR |
Highway Advisory Radio |
| HOV |
High Occupancy Vehicle |
| ITMS |
Interim Traffic Management System |
| ITS |
Intelligent Transportation System |
| MDX |
Miami-Dade Expressway Authority |
| RTMC |
Regional Traffic Management Center |
| SEFRTOC |
South East Florida Regional TMC Operations Committee |
| SIRV |
Severe Incident Response Vehicle |
| SRS |
SmartRoute Systems |
| TIM |
Traffic Incident Management |
| TMC |
Transportation Management Center |
| TMV |
Traffic Management Vehicle |
| VDS |
Vehicle Detector Station |
What is the purpose of the cameras on the highways?
The closed-circuit television cameras (CCTV) are used to monitor congestion and detect incidents on the roadways. The camera images
are displayed on the video wall in the Transportation Management Center (TMC) so that TMC Operators can detect and verify incidents.
Once an incident has been verified with the cameras, Operators use the information to put messages on the electronic overhead signs to
alert motorists that there's a problem ahead.
Camera images are also viewable on the website so that motorists can check the conditions on the highway prior to leaving for work
or home.
Do CCTV Cameras invade our privacy?
It is the policy of the TMC Program that all CCTV Cameras be used solely for the purpose of observing the roadways for traffic
monitoring, incident detection, and incident identification in the field of view of the devices associated with the roadway
environment.
Are the camera images recorded?
The Transportation Management Center does not record and store the camera images. Occasionally incident scenes are recorded for
training and debriefing purposes, however, these tapes are not stored.
Is the state using them for speed enforcement?
No, the state does not use the cameras for speed enforcement.
Why are the message signs blank most of the time?
The message signs are primarily used to report important traffic information to motorists when unusual conditions exist on the
highway. Typically, they're used to report abnormal delays resulting from accidents, disabled vehicles, or road work. During rush
hour most congestion is predictable and expected by commuters so using the signs would result in the same message being displayed
every day. Repetitive information might cause drivers to stop reading the signs and thus, miss important information that might be
displayed.
How come I passed a blank sign and then ended up in a traffic jam?
Accidents can happen at any time. Unfortunately, if an accident occurs after you pass a blank sign you won't know about it until
you see the slow traffic. That's one of the reasons SMART SunGuide monitors the highway cameras all the time. The faster a TMC Operator
verifies an incident, the faster the messages get out to you, our customers.
Do the Road Rangers and SMART SunGuide work together?
SMART SunGuide and the Road Ranger Service Patrol work together to keep the highways open. SMART SunGuide Operators dispatch
service patrol vehicles to accidents, road debris, and disabled motorists. Road Rangers communicate incident details back to the TMC.
The information is used to notify the proper authorities and for posting messages on the Dynamic Message Signs.
Who do I call if I see an incident on the highway and I want to report it?
As with all emergencies, if you see an accident along the roadways please dial 911. To report road debris, disabled vehicles,
reckless drivers, or road rage please dial *FHP. Be prepared to give the exact location and direction of the event.
Where can I call for traffic updates?
For construction, congestion, and incident related road conditions dial 511.
How can I find out about major road construction in South Florida?
Log onto SMARTRoutes.com for information related to current construction projects.
Log on to the Florida Department of Transportation website at www.dot.state.fl.us for detailed information about upcoming, future
and recently completed road and bridge construction projects.
Where can I find information on commercial vehicles or trucking regulations?
What are HOV lanes and where can I find information about them?
High Occupancy Vehicles (HOV) are restricted lanes on major roadways designed to help move more people through congested areas.
You can find this and more useful information on the Highway Safety and Motor Vehicle website.
What are the speed limits on state highways?
Log onto FDOT's Public Information Office
website to access speed limit and countless other traveler information resources.
Where can I get a state highway map?
Highway maps are available directly from FDOT through their website.
Can I tour the Transportation Management Center or get more information?
Yes. To schedule a tour, please fill out the form on our TMC Tour page.