Due to an increase in congestion on southbound I-5 during weekday, morning peak commute times (typically between 5:30-9 a.m.) and in an effort to improve safety and trip reliability, beginning in early 2020, contractor crews working for the Washington State Department of Transportation will install an Active Traffic Management (ATM) system, along southbound I-5, from between Northeast 99th Street to the Interstate Bridge. This technology based system works by managing and controlling traffic based on real-time traffic conditions with the use of ramp meters, over-the-lane, variable messaging signs (VMS) displaying lane closures, advised speed limits, travel times and incident information.
The answer to reducing congestion is not always as simple as adding more lanes to the highway, which can be costly. An ATM system is a cost-effective strategy that helps alleviate congestion by providing the right information to the drivers at the right time. Advance information of incidents down the road helps prevent sudden changes in traffic conditions.
Ramp metering during peak commute hours of traffic aids the functioning of the ATM system by controlling vehicles entering the freeway, further smoothening traffic flow.
This project is estimated to cost between $4,000,000 - $5,000,000
WSDOT Columbia Gorge Area Project Office
360-759-1310
swGorge@wsdot.wa.gov
Celeste Dimichina, Communications
360-905-2057
dimichc@wsdot.wa.gov
