Frequently Asked Questions

What is SMART SunGuide?

System Management for Advanced Roadway Technologies

SMART SunGuide is Florida Department of Transportation, District Four'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, Web site, 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 Web site and 511 which allows motorists to plan their travel before hitting the road. Other benefits include providing warning messages on the 45 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 vehicle alerts.

What are AMBER, Silver and LEO Alerts and are they 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.

The purpose of the Silver Alert is to broadcast vehicle information of a missing elderly person who suffers from irreversible deterioration of intellectual faculties. In the event the missing person’s vehicle is seen or if anyone has knowledge of the whereabouts of the missing person, that information can be provided immediately to the investigating law enforcement agency.

LEO Alerts stands for Law Enforcement Officer Alerts. Its purpose is to broadcast critical information of an offender(s) who has killed or seriously injured a law enforcement officer and that if not apprehended immediately would pose a significant risk to the public.

SMART SunGuide, in conjunction with Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), posts vehicle alert information on the electronic message signs on the highway and on the Web site.

The public plays a key role in the success of the vehicle alert plans. If you see or hear a vehicle alert be on the lookout for the suspect's vehicle. The alert will always include a telephone number. If you are unsure of the number. dial 911.

ITS, TMC, ATMS... How can I find out what they all mean?

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 Web site 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 Transportation Management Center Program that all closed-circuit television cameras (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 or store the camera images.

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 Transportation Management Center (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 Transportation Management Center . The information is used to notify the proper authorities and for posting messages on the Dynamic Message Signs (DMS).

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?

Visit the Florida Department of Transportation Web site 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?

Office of Motor Carrier Compliance

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 Web site.

Florida Department of Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles

What are the speed limits on state highways?

Visit Visit FDOT’s travel information web page 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 Web site.

Florida Department of Transportation

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.