The Model Deployment Initiative

In 1996, the Federal Highway Administration and the U.S. Department of Transportation requested proposals from state departments of transportation on how they would integrate intelligent transportation systems in their state. Four sites: Phoenix, San Antonio, Seattle and New York were selected among 23 proposals to be demonstration sites for the "Model Deployment Initiative" or MDI. The MDI provides real-life examples of technology's potential in metropolitan areas across the country. Investments from public and private sector partners will integrate existing ITS elements in the four sites as part of a national showcase.

The model deployment sites will illustrate how technology can improve transportation in metropolitan areas. An evaluation of the model deployment projects in Phoenix, San Antonio, Seattle and the New York City metropolitan area will document lessons learned. Other metropolitan areas can apply evaluation results to guide their efforts to integrate technology into their regional transportation systems.

The MDI will integrate transportation by linking existing systems that monitor transportation. Technology will allow transportation agencies to share real-time information on congestion and other problems affecting the overall system. Each of the four MDI sites addresses the challenges of developing an Intelligent Transportation Infrastructure in different ways but are ultimately focused on the common vision of more efficient transportation systems and better transportation information. In this way, all system users can make smarter choices about how to use and manage our transportation systems.

For more information:

and/or download a Report containing
a summary of each of the projects.


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