Intelligent transportation systems (ITS) projects include a wide variety of applications where communications technologies are connected to transportation systems. Rural and small metropolitan areas can see benefits to transportation safety, mobility, and operations, but they may experience challenges due to long distances, smaller populations, telecommunications connectivity issues, and funding for transportation improvements.

From 2019-2023, the NADO Research Foundation conducted research supported by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s ITS Joint Program Office and developed the report Rural and Small Metropolitan Intelligent Transportation Systems: Case Studies on Developing and Deploying ITS in Rural Regions and Smaller Communities (PDF, draft final report, May 2023).

This research combined a review of existing literature on rural and small metropolitan ITS with interviews of transportation professionals and primary source research to identify case studies. The report presents case studies highlighting the work of state, regional, local, and nonprofit agencies using ITS in rural, small metropolitan, and suburban or exurban places around the United States. Several themes emerged across the cases, including important roles for state, regional, and local agencies in preparing for and investing in ITS; the significance of capacity building for staff on ITS; and the need to invest in rural broadband along with ITS.

Travel Information Case Studies

• Weather and Road Condition Information in Georgia
• Using ITS to Improve Traffic Conditions and Visitor Experiences in the National Parks
• Rocky Mountain National Park: Experiences and Lessons Learned from Using ITS for Traveler Information

Management and Operations Case Studies

• Dynamic Message Signs and Speed Radar Detectors Deployed to Address Special Events and Safety
• Flood Gate System Improves Road Closure Operations and Public Safety
• Smart Intersections and Signal Timing in Fort Smith, AR
• The Dilemma Zone Protection System
• A Decision Support Tool for Crash Response and Management

Transportation Safety and Health Case Studies

• Dynamic Warning Systems Enhance Safety for Cyclists and Vehicles on Scenic Roadways
• Sign Technology Affects Driver Behavior at Railroad Crossings
• South Dakota DOT Implements Intersection Conflict Warning System
• Using Passive Pedestrian Detection for Trail and Roadway Crossings

Transit and Mobility Case Studies

• Technology Improves Western Iowa Transit Operations
• Scheduling and Dispatching Deployment and Broadband Expansion in Rural Ohio
• Software Supports Volunteer Transportation
• The GoBus Mobile App

Preparing for Vehicle Connectivity and Automated Vehicles Case Studies

• Using Vehicle Connectivity Technology for Roadway Weather Response
• Partnerships Support Rural Technology Deployment Along Wyoming’s I-80 Corridor
• Testing Vehicle and Infrastructure Connectivity in Marysville, Ohio
• Minnesota Plans for Connected and Automated Vehicles
• AV Demonstrations in Small Town Minnesota
• Bringing Automated Driving Systems to Rural Roadways

Smart Infrastructure Case Studies

• Modular Smart Pavement Slabs
• The Ray Highway in West Georgia
• Smart Railroad Ties for Energy Harvesting

This research was conducted under contract to the U.S. Department of Transportation in two parts, completed in 2020 and in 2023. The report was primarily authored by NADO Program Manager Rachel Beyerle, NADO Associate Director Carrie Kissel, and NADO Research Fellow Danny Tomares.

Many transportation agency staff and others assisted with this project in a variety of ways. We offer deep and heartfelt thanks to all the individuals who have provided information and images, consented to be interviewed, and offered editorial guidance in support of this research. Any opinions, findings and conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of U.S. DOT or the NADO Research Foundation. This research is not endorsing any manufacturers, products, or services cited herein and any trade name that may appear in the work has been included only because it is essential to the contents of the work.

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