Intelligent Transportation in Acadia National Park: Determining the feasibility of smart systems to reduce traffic congestion

Calvi, Angela; Maki, Colin; Shuai, Mingqi; Peters, Jackson; Wivagg, Daniel

From the abstract: "The goal of this project was to assess the feasibility of implementing an intelligent transportation system (ITS) in Acadia National Park. To this end, the features of an ITS were researched and discussed. The components of Acadia’s previous ITS were recorded and their effects evaluated. New technologies to implement, replace, or upgrade the existing ITS were researched and the companies providing these technologies were contacted and questioned for specifications regarding their devices. From this research, three sensor systems were identified as possibilities. These sensors were magnetometers, induction loops, and cameras. Furthermore, three methods of information dissemination were identified as useful to travelers. Those methods were dynamic message signs, websites, and mobile applications. The logistics of implementing these systems were researched and documented. A cost analysis was created for each system. The TELOS model of feasibility was then used to compare the strengths of each sensor in five categories: Technical, Economic, Legal, Operational and Schedule. Based on the results of the TELOS and cost analyses, the sensors were ranked in terms of feasibility; magnetometers were found to be the most feasible, followed by induction loop sensors and then camera-based systems. The team recommended implementation of an intelligent transportation system using magnetometer sensors to monitor the Sand Beach parking lot, a dynamic message sign at the entrance station to display collected parking data, and a website to inform guests before entering the park. If the proposed system works well, it can be expanded to other popular locations in the future."

Intelligent Transportation in Acadia National Park: Determining the feasibility of smart systems to reduce traffic congestion

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