| Frequently Asked
Questions System Management for Advanced Roadway Technologies 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. 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. 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? Click on the question mark for a quick acronym lesson.
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. 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. 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.
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.
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.
Yes. To schedule a tour, please fill out the form on our TMC Tour page. |
