Pathfinder: Oklahoma´s advanced traveler information system

As part of ITS initiatives worldwide, Advanced Traveler Information Systems (ATIS) provide potential travelers with information and images from roadway and roadside technology. This information benefits the traveling public by improving pre-travel routing and other trip planning capabilities. As part of broader traffic management ITS strategies, these systems improve overall safety by reducing the number of congestion-related crashes and improve the efficiency of transportation systems by increasing roadway capacity. However, the development of an ATIS offers numerous challenges that are unique to the individual region served. The cost of deployment and operation is of critical importance, particularly for states with smaller populations and transportation budgets. This paper presents the design of the Oklahoma Pathfinder ATIS, addressing the state´s constraints and exploiting the state´s unique ITS deployment. It details the information capabilities, deployment experiences, and traveler reception of the system.