Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Wednesday, December 31, 2008


Transportation Communications Newsletter

Wednesday, December 31, 2008 -- ISSN 1529-1057


HAPPY NEW YEAR!

AVIATION

1) Safety Program Stalled at Three Airlines
Link to story in The Washington Post:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/12/30/AR2008123003056.html
Link to additional information on the Aviation Safety Action Program:
http://www.faa.gov/safety/programs_initiatives/aircraft_aviation/asap/

2) The Future of In-Flight Internet
Link to column in USA Today:
http://www.usatoday.com/travel/flights/2008-12-29-qa-row44-guidon_N.htm
Link to additional information on Row 44:
http://www.row44.com/

MARITIME

3) Who Needs GPS? Barnegat Lighthouse to Shine Again After 82 Years
Link to story in The Press of Atlantic City:
http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/183/story/359415.html

PEDESTRIANS

4) Pedestrians 2008
Paper topics include accessible pedestrian signals for blind pedestrians at complex intersections and detectable warnings for visually impaired pedestrians.
Link to report from the Transportation Research Board:
http://www.trb.org/news/blurb_detail.asp?id=9860

ROADWAYS

5) Toll Express Lanes Ease Traffic on Urban Highways
Link to AP story:
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5i7aLHU_eLiGSSHngQctXlwLDuycwD95D2CQO0

TELEMATICS

6) San Francisco’s Autonet Sells In-Vehicle Internet Access as a Subscription
Link to story in the San Francisco Business Journal:
http://eastbay.bizjournals.com/sanfrancisco/stories/2008/12/29/smallb1.html?b=1230526800%5E1752129
Link to Autonet’s site:
http://www.autonetmobile.com/

TRANSIT

7) Ditching Car OK with Net Transit Planners
Link to Associated Press review:
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5gDLAaon3EH1saS8FI8g2JHs0_MJAD95D7P9O1

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

8) Smart-Road Plans to Go Forward in 2009 in Houma, Louisiana
Link to story in the Daily Comet:
http://www.dailycomet.com/article/20081231/ARTICLES/812300219/1212?Title=Smart_road_plans_to_go_forward_in_2009

9) New Total Traffic Network Web Site Debuts
Link to story in Radio Ink:
http://www.radioink.com/HeadlineEntry.asp?hid=144482&pt=todaysnews
Link to Total Traffic Network: http://www.totaltraffic.com/


News Releases
1)
Rand McNally Enhances Commercial Transportation Industry's Most Comprehensive Routing and Mileage Software


Upcoming Events
Railway Security Forum & Expo – January 27-28 – Arlington, Virginia
http://www.railwayage.com/conference1.html


Today in Transportation History
1983 **25th anniversary** - AT&T’s Bell System was dissolved.
http://www.bell.com/

=============================================================================================
The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically Monday through Friday.
To subscribe send an e-mail to:
TCNL-subscribe@googlegroups.com
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Questions, comments about the TCN? Please write the editor, Bernie Wagenblast at
i95berniew@aol.com.
© 2008 Bernie Wagenblast

Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Tuesday, December 30, 2008


Transportation Communications Newsletter

Tuesday, December 30, 2008 -- ISSN 1529-1057


AVIATION

1) Jenamani: The Man Who Demystified Delhi Fog
Link to story in The Indian Express:
http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/jenamani-the-man-who-demystified-delhi-fog/404413/

CAMERAS

2) Arizona Department of Public Safety Touts Safety Facets of Cameras
Link to story in The Arizona Republic:
http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/local/articles/2008/12/30/20081230speedcameras1230.html
Link to news release from Arizona DPS:
http://www.azdps.gov/news/pdf/2008/photo_enforcement_12.29.08.pdf

3) Study: Wrecks Increase at Houston Red-Light Camera Sites
Link to story in the Houston Chronicle:
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/metropolitan/6185795.html
Link to news release from the City of Houston:
http://www.houstontx.gov/mayor/press/20081229.html
Link to report:
http://www.houstontx.gov/mayor/press/documents/redlightcameras20081229.pdf

GPS / NAVIGATION

4) Better GPS Mapping to Prevent Truck Smashes
Link to Australian Broadcasting Corporation story:
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/12/30/2456619.htm?site=science&topic=latest

MARITIME

5) Indian Government Plans Low-Cost Satellite to Watch Country’s Coastline
Link to story in the Business Standard:
http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/govt-plans-low-cost-satellite-to-watch-indias-coastline/13/41/51979/on

6) US Navy, Environmentalists Settle Sonar Lawsuit
Link to AP story:
http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/environment/2008-12-27-sonar-lawsuit_N.htm
Link to news release from the US Navy:
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41605
Link to news release from the National Resources Defense Council:
http://www.nrdc.org/media/2008/081228.asp

OTHER

7) Man Charged After Motorcycle Speeding Video Posted on YouTube
Link to story in The Courier-Mail:
http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/story/0,23739,24857666-953,00.html

ROADWAYS

8) LED Traffic Signal Monitoring, Maintenance, and Replacement Issues
Link to report from the Transportation Research Board:
http://www.trb.org/news/blurb_detail.asp?id=9859

SAFETY / SECURITY

9) New Focus on Behavior as Airport Security Evolves
Link to commentary in The New York Times:
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/12/30/business/30road.html?partner=rss&emc=rss&pagewanted=all

VEHICLES

10) Calls for ‘Speed-Limiting’ Cars in UK
Link to BBC News story and video:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/7803997.stm
Link to news release from IAM:
http://www.iam.org.uk/pressroom/newsarchive/Lethal+rural+roads+need+Intelligent+Speed+Adaption+treatment+first+says+IAM.htm

11) Ford Hopes Self-Parking Vehicles Boost Curb Appeal
Link to story in The Wall Street Journal:
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123059446215040911.html
Link to news release from Ford:
http://media.ford.com/article_display.cfm?article_id=29625


News Releases
1)
Transportation Security Administration Completes Background Checks on Over 1 Million Truckers
2) Sat-Nav is Favorite for In-Car Device for More than Half of AA Members
3) MARAD Creates Web Site with Information on Piracy Near Horn of Africa


Upcoming Events
Transportation Research Board Annual Ports, Waterways, Freight, and International Trade Conference – May 4-6 – Irvine, California
http://www.trb.org/news/blurb_detail.asp?id=9749


Today in Transportation History
1953 **55th anniversary** - The Milford-Montague Toll Bridge over the Delaware River opened. The bridge connects New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
http://www.drjtbc.org/default.aspx?pageid=72

=============================================================================================
The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically Monday through Friday.
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Questions, comments about the TCN? Please write the editor, Bernie Wagenblast at
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© 2008 Bernie Wagenblast

Monday, December 29, 2008

Monday, December 29, 2008


Transportation Communications Newsletter

Monday, December 29, 2008 -- ISSN 1529-1057


ELECTRONIC TOLLING

1) Electronic Toll Collection System to be Introduced in Indonesia in January 2009
Link to Antara story:
http://www.antara.co.id/en/arc/2008/12/27/electronic-toll-collection-system-introduced-as-of-january-2009/

MARITIME

2) Royal Navy Goes with ‘Windows for Subs’
Link to CNET News story:
http://news.cnet.com/8301-13639_3-10129373-42.html?tag=newsEditorsPicksArea.0

OTHER

3) BP Offers Free Wi-Fi to Fuel Interest in Gas Stations
Link to blog in USA Today:
http://blogs.usatoday.com/technologylive/2008/12/bp-offers-free.html

4) Internet Access Turns School Buses Into Rolling Classrooms
Link to story in The Wall Street Journal:
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123050778470438219.html

SAFETY / SECURITY

5) Michigan Law on Rearview-Mirror Baubles Struck Down by Federal Court
Link to AP story:
http://www.freep.com/article/20081226/NEWS06/81226023/1008/NEWS06

6) Can You Find Me Now?
Cell phones hard for 911 to trace.
Link to story in The Tampa Tribune:
http://www2.tbo.com/content/2008/dec/28/280011/na-can-you-find-me-now/news-breaking/

7) Australian Police Target YouTube Speed Hoon
Motorcyclist posts videos of high-speed travels.
Link to story in The Canberra Times:
http://www.canberratimes.com.au/news/local/news/general/police-target-youtube-speed-hoon/1396688.aspx

TRANSIT

8) Utah Transit Authority ‘Tapping’ Into High-Tech Fare Collection
Link to story in the Deseret News:
http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,705273709,00.html

9) Signs to be Installed at 86 DC Metro Stations
Link to story in Metro:
http://www.metro-magazine.com/News/Story/2008/12/Signs-to-be-installed-at-86-DC-Metro-stations.aspx

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

10) Stage Set for New-Age Traffic System in Delhi
Link to story in The Indian Express:
http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/stage-set-for-a-newage-traffic-system/404069/

11) Nerve Center Keeps Hernando County, Florida Traffic Flowing
Link to story in the St. Petersburg Times:
http://www.tampabay.com/news/localgovernment/article950222.ece

12) GPS + Web = Drive – Traffic
A combination of overhead signs and mobile Internet traffic information help columnist avoid holiday delays.
Link to column in The Washington Post:
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/fasterforward/2008/12/gps_web_drive_-_traffic.html?wprss=fasterforward

13) Experimenting with Twitter: How Newsrooms Are Using It to Reach More Users
Several newspapers are using the service to provide traffic updates.
Link to story on Poynter Online:
http://www.poynter.org/column.asp?id=101&aid=128918


Upcoming Events
North American Snow Conference – April 26-29 – Des Moines, Iowa
http://www.apwa.net/Events/eventdetail.asp?ID=2902


Today in Transportation History
1998 **10th anniversary** - A huge wave hit yachts during the Sydney to Hobart race. Six people died.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/onthisday/hi/dates/stories/december/29/newsid_4034000/4034603.stm

=============================================================================================
The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically Monday through Friday.
To subscribe send an e-mail to:
TCNL-subscribe@googlegroups.com
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Questions, comments about the TCN? Please write the editor, Bernie Wagenblast at
i95berniew@aol.com.
© 2008 Bernie Wagenblast

Friday, December 26, 2008

Friday, December 26, 2008


Transportation Communications Newsletter

Friday, December 26, 2008 -- ISSN 1529-1057


AVIATION

1) New Software Set to Improve Flight Safety in India
Link to NDTV story:
http://www.ndtv.com/convergence/ndtv/story.aspx?id=NEWEN20080077857&ch=12/26/2008%209:55:00%20PM

CARTOGRAPHY

2) Making Digital Maps More Current and Accurate
Link to story on ICT Results:
http://cordis.europa.eu/ictresults/index.cfm/section/news/tpl/article/BrowsingType/Features/ID/90334

OTHER

3) New Forbes Index Forecasts Economic Recovery
Index is up on increased road congestion and insider buying.
Link to story in Forbes:
http://www.forbes.com/business/2008/12/23/recession-recovery-rebound-business-cz_jb_1223index.html

RAILROADS

4) Metrolink Plans Live Video Cameras to Monitor Train Engineers
Link to story in the Los Angeles Times:
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-traincrash-videos25-2008dec25,0,6941164.story

5) Experts Say Sequence of Signals May Have Contributed to Metrolink Crash
Link to story and video report in the Los Angeles Times:
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-traincrash-sequence26-2008dec26,0,1939763.story

ROADWAYS

6) Ankara, Turkey’s Road Signs to be Modernized
Signs will be compatible with world standards on main artery roads and crossroad traffic lights will feature pedestrian buttons and countdown displays.
Link to story in Hürriyet:
http://www.hurriyet.com.tr/english/domestic/10644327.asp?scr=1

7) Pennsylvania Pilot Program Uses Updated Highway Signs to Promote Tourism
Link to story in The Tribune-Democrat:
http://www.tribune-democrat.com/local/local_story_360221844.html
Link to additional information on the Pennsylvania Tourism Signing Trust:
http://www.palogo.org/

SPACE

8) Lockheed Martin Reports SBIRS Communications System Progress
Link to UPI story:
http://www.upi.com/Security_Industry/2008/12/26/Lockheed_Martin_reports_SBIRS_progress/UPI-68311230270831/
Link to news release from Lockheed Martin:
http://www.lockheedmartin.com/news/press_releases/2008/1222ss_SBIRS.html


Upcoming Events
2009 World Customs Organization IT Conference & Exhibition – April 22-24 - Marrakech, Morocco
http://www.wcoomd.org/event_factsheet_.htm


Friday Bonus
Which would be worse; being the pilot, being a passenger or standing on the hill?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LMiG-VLYMXo&feature=related


Today in Transportation History
1933 **75th anniversary** - Jidosha Seizo Company, predecessor of Nissan Motor Company, is established.
http://www.nissan-global.com/EN/COMPANY/PROFILE/HERITAGE/

=============================================================================================
The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically Monday through Friday.
To subscribe send an e-mail to:
TCNL-subscribe@googlegroups.com
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Questions, comments about the TCN? Please write the editor, Bernie Wagenblast at
i95berniew@aol.com.
© 2008 Bernie Wagenblast

Thursday, December 25, 2008

Thursday, December 25, 2008


Transportation Communications Newsletter

Thursday, December 25, 2008 -- ISSN 1529-1057


MERRY CHRISTMAS!


AVIATION

1) San Francisco Airport to Feature Carbon Offset Kiosks
Link to story in the San Francisco Chronicle:
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/12/24/MNIR14PSQF.DTL&hw=carbon&sn=002&sc=772

CAMERAS

2) Traffic Camera Locations in China to be Made Public Under Draft Rule
Link to story in the Shanghai Daily:
http://www.shanghaidaily.com/article/?id=385842&type=National

3) Duo’s Web Site Reveals Locations of Arizona Cities’ Traffic Cameras
Link to story in The Arizona Republic:
http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/business/articles/2008/12/25/20081225biz-radarrover1225.html
Link to RadarRover:
http://www.radarrover.com

4) Santas Wrap Up Traffic Cameras in Tempe, Arizona
Link to story in The Arizona Republic:
http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/local/articles/2008/12/23/20081223B1-talker1224.html
Link to YouTube video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymUhWPte67Q

ELECTRONIC TOLLING

5) Some Florida Drivers Use Express Lanes Without Paying Toll – But State Knows Who They are
Link to story in the South Florida Sun-Sentinel:
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/business/custom/consumer/sfl-flb95express1225sbdec25,0,5895114.story

GPS / NAVIGATION

6) Russia Launches Rocket with Three New Satellites
Link to RIA Novosti story:
http://en.rian.ru/russia/20081225/119169033.html

OTHER

7) Articles from Current Issue of FHWA’s Public Roads
- The Quest for Zero Fatalities in Utah
http://www.tfhrc.gov/pubrds/08nov/01.htm
- LTAP/TTAP: 25 Years of Service
http://www.tfhrc.gov/pubrds/08nov/02.htm


Upcoming Events
New York International Auto Show – April 10-19 – New York City
http://www.autoshowny.com


Today in Transportation History
1968 **40th anniversary** - Apollo 8 performs the first successful Trans-Earth Injection maneuver.
http://www.myspacemuseum.com/prof23.jpg

=============================================================================================
The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically Monday through Friday.
To subscribe send an e-mail to:
TCNL-subscribe@googlegroups.com
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Questions, comments about the TCN? Please write the editor, Bernie Wagenblast at
i95berniew@aol.com.
© 2008 Bernie Wagenblast

Wednesday, December 24, 2008

Wednesday, December 24, 2008


Transportation Communications Newsletter

Wednesday, December 24, 2008 -- ISSN 1529-1057


MERRY CHRISTMAS!


AVIATION

1) FAA Gives Weather Service Two More Months to Plan Reduction of Forecaster Staff
Link to story in The Washington Post:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/12/23/AR2008122302502.html

MARITIME

2) Black Box Technology for Sydney Ferries
Link to AAP story:
http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,24835354-12377,00.html

SAFETY / SECURITY

3) US Federal Emergency Management Agency Releases Guideline for First Responder ID Cards
Link to story in Federal Computer Week:
http://www.fcw.com/online/news/154761-1.html
Link to notice in the Federal Register:
http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2008/E8-30333.htm

TRANSIT

4) Google vs. Washington, DC’s Transit System
Link to column in The Wall Street Journal:
http://blogs.wsj.com/digits/2008/12/23/google-vs-washington-dc%25E2%2580%2599s-public-transit-system/

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

5) Taiwan Freeway Bureau Says Service Will Help Drivers Avoid Traffic
Link to story in the Taipei Times:
http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2008/12/25/2003432004
Link to Taiwan freeway information:
http://1968.nfreeway.gov.tw/


News Releases
1)
US Department of Homeland Security Announces Revised National Incident Management System
2) 24-Hour Transport Information Call Center Established for Sydney Area


Upcoming Events
ADS-B Management Forum – March 26-27 – Washington, DC
http://www.aviationweek.com/forums/adsbmain.htm?ATAS


Today in Transportation History
1898 **110th anniversary – The first ship-to-shore message was sent from the East Goodwin Lightship to the South Foreland Lighthouse.
http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-vh/w-visits/w-findaplace/w-thewhitecliffsofdover/w-thewhitecliffs-history/w-thewhitecliffs-history-lighthouse.htm

1958 **50th anniversary** - NORAD began the annual tracking of Santa.
http://www.noradsanta.org

=============================================================================================
The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically Monday through Friday.
To subscribe send an e-mail to:
TCNL-subscribe@googlegroups.com
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TCN archives:
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Questions, comments about the TCN? Please write the editor, Bernie Wagenblast at
i95berniew@aol.com.
© 2008 Bernie Wagenblast

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Tuesday, December 23, 2008


Transportation Communications Newsletter

Tuesday, December 23, 2008 -- ISSN 1529-1057


Business and Policy Analyst – CCIT

The California Center for Innovative Transportation (CCIT) has a mission to accelerate the deployment of research results and the implementation of technical solutions to enable a safer, greener, more efficient transportation system. CCIT is a part of the Institute of Transportation Studies at the University of California, Berkeley, and works with academic researchers, public agencies, and entrepreneurs to ensure that innovative technologies and best practices are implemented into practice. This involves conducting technical and economic evaluations, fielding pilot demonstrations, facilitating technology transfer agreements, as well as designing and carrying out deployment plans. CCIT currently has an open position for a business and policy analyst. The position will generally be responsible for framing the application of new transportation technologies in an economic and public policy perspective.
For more information and to apply online go to:
http://jobs.berkeley.edu and look up job code # 9327.


AVIATION

1) Air Crash Victims Getting Better Treatment
Link to AP story:
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Air-crash-victims-getting-apf-13897957.html
Link to further information on the National Air Disaster Alliance/Foundation: http://www.planesafe.org/
Link to further information on NTSB’s Office of Transportation Disaster Assistance:
http://www.ntsb.gov/Family/family.htm

2) Plane Crash Geek Twitters from Burning Denver Aircraft
Link to story in The Times:
http://technology.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/tech_and_web/article5383144.ece
Link to Twitter account:
http://twitter.com/2drinksbehind

GPS / NAVIGATION

3) US Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Amends Policy, Allows GPS, Other Equipment for Monitoring
Link to story in The Trucker:
http://www.thetrucker.com/News/Stories/2008/12/22/FMCSAamendspolicyallowsGPSotherequipmentformonitoring.aspx

MARITIME

4) Northrop Grumman to Build Data Exchange for Vessel Tracking
Link to story in Washington Technology:
http://www.washingtontechnology.com/online/1_1/34139-1.html

ROADWAYS

5) Human Performance: Infrastructure, Information Systems, and Simulation
Link to publication from the Transportation Research Board:
http://www.trb.org/news/blurb_detail.asp?id=9797

SAFETY / SECURITY

6) Road Block Tip-Off SMS Angers Officials in KwaZulu-Natal
Law enforcement officials concerned messaging service may help drunk-drivers and criminals avoid police roadblocks.
Link to story from The Mercury:
http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=13&art_id=vn20081223054724327C298874

TRANSIT

7) Boston Subway Fare Hackers to Partner with Agency
Link to AP story:
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hWQvz_C1bHmEs8pc5MG3H2qrd7rAD9580TPO0
Link to news release from the Electronic Frontier Foundation:
http://www.eff.org/press/releases

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

8) Kansas DOT Offers Road Updates on Twitter
Link to story in The Wichita Eagle:
http://www.kansas.com/196/story/640716.html
Link to KDOT Twitter page: http://twitter.com/WichitaKDOT

9) New Publication from the Federal Highway Administration
- Planned Special Events – Economic Role and Congestion Effects
http://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/publications/fhwahop08022/index.htm


News Releases
1)
New Look Launched for Arizona DOT’s 511 Web Site
2) Berg Insight: Installed Base of Fleet Management Systems in Europe Increased 23.8 Percent in 2008
3) Frost & Sullivan Bestows European Telematics Entrepreneurial Company Award on Coyote System


Upcoming Events
2009 China/US Aviation Summit – April 7-9 – Beijing
http://events.aaae.org/sites/090405/


Today in Transportation History
1968 **40th anniversary** - Crew members of the USS Pueblo were released by the North Korean government.
http://www.history.navy.mil/photos/sh-usn/usnsh-p/ager2-l.htm

=============================================================================================
The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically Monday through Friday.
To subscribe send an e-mail to:
TCNL-subscribe@googlegroups.com
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TCNL-unsubscribe@googlegroups.com
TCN archives:
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Questions, comments about the TCN? Please write the editor, Bernie Wagenblast at
i95berniew@aol.com.
© 2008 Bernie Wagenblast

Monday, December 22, 2008

Monday, December 22, 2008


Transportation Communications Newsletter

Monday, December 22, 2008 -- ISSN 1529-1057


Bernie’s Notes

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Plaxo? If so, and you’d like to connect with me, please send me an invitation. Also, if you’re on Facebook and you enjoy the TCN, you can become a “fan” by searching for “Transportation Communications Newsletter” and joining.


CAMERAS

1) Teens Claim Pranks on Speed Cameras
Students print duplicate license plates and then purposefully speed past cameras so others get citations.
Link to story in The Sentinel:
http://www.thesentinel.com/302730670790449.php

GPS / NAVIGATION

2) Emergency-Vehicle GPS Plan is Getting a Mixed Response in Boston
Link to story in The Boston Globe:
http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2008/12/21/emergency_vehicle_gps_plan_is_getting_a_mixed_response/

3) New California GPS Law Opens a Window of Opportunity
Windshield mounting, previously illegal, will be allowed in two corners of the glass (not in the middle). How well will it work?
Link to story in the Los Angeles Times:
http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-consumer21-2008dec21,0,7671118.story

OTHER

4) New Cell Phone Apps Help You Find Your Way Around Town
Link to story in The Washington Post:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/12/19/AR2008121901472.html

5) Big Boxes Making Us Safer, and Uglier
Columnist says new traffic control boxes in Philadelphia's urban neighborhoods are required by US government.
Link to column in The Philadelphia Inquirer:
http://www.philly.com/philly/hp/news_update/20081219_Changing_Skyline__Big_boxes_making_us_safer__and_uglier.html

6) Very Moving Pictures
Community-based art project looks to turn blank trailers or truck boxes into finished paintings.
Link to story on Today’s Trucking:
http://www.todaystrucking.com/news.cfm?intDocID=20940

SAFETY / SECURITY

7) Public Safety Groups Urge $15 Billion Broadband Investment
Link to story in Federal Computer Week:
http://www.fcw.com/online/news/154740-1.html

8) Nevada Department of Motor Vehicle’s Facial Recognition Technology Leads to Second Arrest on False Identity Charge
Link to story in the Reno Gazette-Journal:
http://www.rgj.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2008812200333

TRANSIT

9) Chicago Transit Authority Sheds Light on New Subway Emergency Efforts
Glow-in-the-dark paint, added signs point way to underground avenues of escape.
Link to column in the Chicago Tribune:
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/autocorner/chi-getting-around-22-dec22,0,3343771.column

10) Washington Metro-Google Transit Issue Leads to Talks
Local blog takes initiative.
Link to commentary on WRC-TV:
http://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/Metro-Google-Transit-Issue-Leads-to-Talks.html

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

11) UK Highways Agency Combines with Google for Route 2.0
Link to story in ComputerWeekly:
http://www.computerweekly.com/Articles/2008/12/22/234023/highways-agency-combines-with-google-for-route-2.0.htm

12) High-Tech Safety Sign to be Put Into Operation in Wisconsin
System is designed to warn drivers of unsafe conditions before they cross highway by using electronic signs and a computer-detection system.
Link to story from KUWS Radio:
http://www.businessnorth.com/kuws.asp?RID=2701

VEHICLES

13) Saved by Technology: Hot New Safety Features Hit the Luxury Market
Link to story in the San Francisco Chronicle:
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/12/18/MTUJ14K802.DTL&type=autos


News Releases
1)
Multimedia Features Enhance the Navigation Experience, but Also Represent Risks
2) Federal Railroad Administration Begins Development of Positive Train Control Regulations
3) Eurocontrol De-mystifies Safety Culture
4) Westwood One's Metro Traffic and TrafficLand Create Exclusive Partnership to Bring Leading Edge Video Traffic Information System to US Broadcasters

Job Postings
- Business and Policy Analyst – California Center for Innovative Transportation (CCIT) – Berkeley, California
http://jobs.berkeley.edu (job code 9327)


Upcoming Events
Traffic Modeling Conference – March 31 – Milton Keynes, UK
http://statistics.open.ac.uk/TrafficConference


Today in Transportation History
1963 **45th anniversary** - The ocean liner, TSMS Lakonia caught fire while on a cruise to the Canary Islands. The death toll was 128.
http://www.ssmaritime.com/jvoch8.htm

=============================================================================================
The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically Monday through Friday.
To subscribe send an e-mail to:
TCNL-subscribe@googlegroups.com
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TCN archives:
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Questions, comments about the TCN? Please write the editor, Bernie Wagenblast at
i95berniew@aol.com.
© 2008 Bernie Wagenblast

Friday, December 19, 2008

Friday, December 19, 2008


Transportation Communications Newsletter

Friday, December 19, 2008 -- ISSN 1529-1057


AVIATION

1) Storm Brewing Between FAA and Weather Service
Bush Administration wants to consolidate forecasters to two regional centers.
Link to column in The Washington Post:
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/federal-eye/2008/12/the_bush_administration_is_con.html?hpid=topnews

2) Awareness in the Air
Rapid position updates for controllers and pilots.
Link to story in GPS World:
http://tl.gpsworld.com/gpstl/Aviation/Awareness-in-the-Air/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/570732?contextCategoryId=33764

CARTOGRAPHY

3) Japanese Group Asks Google to Stop Map Service
Say street-level images violate privacy rights.
Link to Reuters story:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/12/19/AR2008121900276.html

SAFETY / SECURITY

4) ITS Croatia Holds Forum on ITS Security and Safety Applications
Link to story from ERTICO-ITS Europe:
http://www.ertico.com/en/news_and_events/ertico_newsroom/general_news_its_croatia_holds_forum_on_its_security__safety_applications.htm

5) US Department of Homeland Security to Expand US-VISIT Biometric Collection
Link to story in Federal Computer Week:
http://www.fcw.com/online/news/154728-1.html

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

6) Nova Scotia Told to Improve Snow Removal, Snow Response on Notorious Highway
Report recommendations include improved traveler information.
Link to Canadian Press story:
http://www.google.com/hostednews/canadianpress/article/ALeqM5jppSyTl42WlENSdH2Q4mEhtTivMw

7) Floating Car Data Launched in Beijing
Link to story in Traffic Technology International:
http://www.traffictechnologytoday.com/news.php?NewsID=9789

VEHICLES

8) Hyundai-Kai, Microsoft Join for In-Vehicle Electronics
Link to story from Automotive News:
http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-13746_7-10123239-48.html


News Releases
1)
Top Transportation Officials, Technology Leaders Call for ‘Intelligent’ Infrastructure Investment in Economic Stimulus


Upcoming Events
2009 National Conference on Transportation Operations for Planned and Unplanned Events – March 25-26 – Phoenix, Arizona
http://www.ite.org/transops/default.html


Friday Bonus
Imagine living on some of these streets.
http://www.walletpop.com/mortgages/most-unique-street-names


Today in Transportation History
1903 **105th anniversary** - The Williamsburg Bridge opened.
http://memory.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/r?ammem/papr:@field(NUMBER+@band(lcmp002+m2b27839))

=============================================================================================
The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically Monday through Friday.
To subscribe send an e-mail to:
TCNL-subscribe@googlegroups.com
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TCNL-unsubscribe@googlegroups.com
TCN archives:
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Questions, comments about the TCN? Please write the editor, Bernie Wagenblast at
i95berniew@aol.com.
© 2008 Bernie Wagenblast

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Thursday, December 18, 2008


Transportation Communications Newsletter

Thursday, December 18, 2008 -- ISSN 1529-1057


Business and Policy Analyst – CCIT

The California Center for Innovative Transportation (CCIT) has a mission to accelerate the deployment of research results and the implementation of technical solutions to enable a safer, greener, more efficient transportation system. CCIT is a part of the Institute of Transportation Studies at the University of California, Berkeley, and works with academic researchers, public agencies, and entrepreneurs to ensure that innovative technologies and best practices are implemented into practice. This involves conducting technical and economic evaluations, fielding pilot demonstrations, facilitating technology transfer agreements, as well as designing and carrying out deployment plans. CCIT currently has an open position for a business and policy analyst. The position will generally be responsible for framing the application of new transportation technologies in an economic and public policy perspective.
For more information and to apply online go to:
http://jobs.berkeley.edu and look up job code # 9327.


AVIATION

1) Report: FAA Aging Buildings are Bad, Getting Worse
Link to AP story:
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hsyo7gGOdNDf4Sn3xPlqP6Ik5ADwD954O0I80

2) Satellite-Based Air Traffic Control to Get Test Flight in Newark
Link to story in The Star-Ledger:
http://www.nj.com/news/ledger/index.ssf?/base/news-14/122957792724840.xml&coll=1

3) Airlines, Unions Asked to Preserve Safety System
Link to AP story:
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Airlines-unions-asked-to-apf-13869491.html

4) Preventing Vehicle-Aircraft Incidents During Winter Operations and Periods of Low Visibility
Link to publication from the Transportation Research Board:
http://www.trb.org/news/blurb_detail.asp?id=9799

BUSES

5) Chattanooga’s CARTA Goes Live on Bus Tracker
Link to story in The Chattanoogan:
http://www.chattanoogan.com/articles/article_141093.asp

GPS / NAVIGATION

6) Interactive Highway Powered by GPS
Link to story in GPS World:
http://tl.gpsworld.com/gpstl/Avionics+%26+Transportation+News/Interactive-Highway-Powered-by-GPS/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/572186?contextCategoryId=33830

OTHER

7) $5 Bill in the Mail from US DOT: Is It a Con?
Money is an incentive to respond to survey on driving habits.
Link to story from WBBH-TV:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28278136/

8) Caltrans Meet Technology, Technology Meet Caltrans
Link to blog in the Los Angeles Times:
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2008/12/caltrans-meet-t.html

RAILROADS

9) Towards Operational Harmonization for European Rail System
Link to story in Signal:
http://ec.europa.eu/transport/rail/interoperability/ertms/doc/009_signal_2008_12_en.pdf

ROADWAYS

10) Intuitive Safety Management on US Highways: The Case for Safety Management
Link to story in The American Surveyor:
http://www.amerisurv.com/content/view/5641/2/

SAFETY / SECURITY

11) ‘Smart’ Cards Could Save Patients in Emergencies
Ambulances and doctors will be connected to identify the best facility to transport a patient.
Link to story in The Asahi Shimbun:
http://www.asahi.com/english/Herald-asahi/TKY200812180046.html

TRANSIT

12) Tailored Programs Educate Public on Transit Options
Link to story in Metro:
http://www.metro-magazine.com/Article/Story/2008/12/Tailored-Programs-Educate-Public-on-Transit-Options.aspx

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

13) Wisconsin Unveils 511 Road Hotline Just Before Storm
Link to AP story:
http://www.wxow.com/Global/story.asp?S=9549875
Link to news release from Wisconsin DOT:
http://www.dot.wisconsin.gov/opencms/export/nr/modules/news/news_1100.html_786229440.html

14) Nevada RTC to Test Wireless Traffic System in Green Valley
Link to story in the Las Vegas Sun:
http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2008/dec/18/rtc-test-wireless-traffic-system-green-valley/

15) New Iowa Ops Center Gives Faster Road Updates
Link to story on KCRG-TV:
http://www.kcrg.com/news/local/36351824.html

VEHICLES

16) Autonomous Cars Turn the Corner
Link to story in Consumer Reports:
http://blogs.consumerreports.org/cars/2008/12/selfdriving-car.html


News Releases
1)
Lexington, Kentucky Traffic Engineers, Police Team Up to Improve Traffic Flow for Holiday Shoppers
2) Western Transportation Institute Researchers Win National Award for Studies on Wildlife-Vehicle Collisions
3) Further Boost to Highway Traveler Information in New Zealand


Job Posting
- Senior Vice President, Administration – MTA Metro-North Railroad – New York, New York
http://as0.mta.info/mnr/html/employment/profopen_detail.cfm?job_number=1250000198002800100100&title=Senior%20VP%20-%20Administration


Upcoming Events
78th International Auto Show & Accessories – March 5-15 - Geneva
http://www.salon-auto.ch/en/


Today in Transportation History
1973 **35th anniversary** - Soyuz 13 was launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome.
http://www.spacefacts.de/mission/english/soyuz-13.htm

=============================================================================================
The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically Monday through Friday.
To subscribe send an e-mail to:
TCNL-subscribe@googlegroups.com
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TCNL-unsubscribe@googlegroups.com
TCN archives:
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Questions, comments about the TCN? Please write the editor, Bernie Wagenblast at
i95berniew@aol.com.
© 2008 Bernie Wagenblast

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Wednesday, December 17, 2008


Transportation Communications Newsletter

Wednesday, December 17, 2008 -- ISSN 1529-1057


CAMERAS

1) Baltimore Contract Could Provide Live Traffic Feeds for Motorists
Link to story in The Examiner:
http://www.baltimoreexaminer.com/local/121708citybrief.html

GPS / NAVIGATION

2) EU Might Tax Phones with GPS, TV
Link to Reuters story:
http://in.reuters.com/article/technologyNews/idINIndia-37073320081217

ROADWAYS

3) New Web Site Alerts Motorists to Wildlife on Idaho Roads
Link to story on KTVB-TV:
http://www.ktvb.com/news/localnews/stories/ktvbn-dec1608-wildlife_sightings_web_site.6cda1ff0.html
Link to site: http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/cms/wildlife/manage_issues/collision/

4) Proposing a National Pricing System: Delivering Transportation Sustainability Through ITS
Link to story in the NTOC Newsletter:
http://www.ntoctalks.com/articles/nationalpricing.php

5) Regional Transportation Systems Management and Operations; Managed Lanes 2008
Link to publication from the Transportation Research Board:
http://www.trb.org/news/blurb_detail.asp?id=9794

SAFETY / SECURITY

6) New Web Site Will Monitor Private Aircraft Operators
Site will collect advance information on passengers on private planes who intend to enter the United States.
Link to story in Federal Computer Week:
http://www.fcw.com/online/news/154707-1.html

7) NOAA Models Tsunami Warning System
Link to story in Government Computer News:
http://www.gcn.com/online/vol1_no1/47750-1.html
Link to news release from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration:
http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2008/20081210_oregonmodel.html

TELEMATICS

8) Telematics and Beyond: Maximizing the Value of an All-in-One In-Cab Solution
Link to white paper from Motorola:
http://www.logisticsonline.com/download.mvc/Maximizing-value-all-in-one-in-cab-solution-0001

TRANSIT

9) Washington Metro Involvement with Google Transit Held Up by the Details
Agency says it’s willing to work with Google, but wants money for information.
Link to story in The Examiner:
http://www.dcexaminer.com/local/Metro_involvement_with_Google_Transit_held_up_by_the_details12-16.html

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

10) Vermont Plan to Close Rest Areas Met with Angst
Link to AP story:
http://www.burlingtonfreepress.com/article/20081217/NEWS03/81217003

11) New Traffic Initiatives, Message Systems to Come Up in Bangalore
Link to story in The Times of India:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Bangalore/New_traffic_initiatives_message_systems_to_come_up/articleshow/3853700.cms

12) How to Tell DOT What Information You Want on Lighted Signs
Link to story and video report on WQAD-TV:
http://www.wqad.com/Global/story.asp?S=9533677

VEHICLES

13) The Touch Screen is Dead (in Acuras), Long Live the Touch Screen (in Other Makes)
Link to story on Edmunds:
http://blogs.edmunds.com/strategies/2008/12/the-touch-screen-is-dead-in-acuras-long-live-the-touch-screen-in-other-makes.html


News Releases
1)
Newark Liberty Airport to Test Cutting-Edge Satellite Navigation Technology to Help Reduce Delays
2) WBBM-TV Chicago Partners with Transit TV to Bring News, Sports and Weather to Suburban Chicago Pace Riders


Job Postings
- Budget and Policy Analyst – California Center for Innovative Transportation (CCIT) – Berkeley, California
http://jobs.berkeley.edu (job code 9327)


Upcoming Events
Growing Galileo 2009 Conference & Info Day – January 27-28 – Brussels
http://growinggalileo09.teamwork.fr/index.php?page=info


Today in Transportation History
**80th anniversary** - Van Nuys Airport opened as Metropolitan Airport.
http://www.lawa.org/welcomeVNY.cfm?id=1128

**5th anniversary** - AirTrain JFK began service at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=om-PS0pZNlQ
(in a bit of blatant self-promotion, I’m the voice you’ll hear on AirTrain JFK)

=============================================================================================
The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically Monday through Friday.
To subscribe send an e-mail to:
TCNL-subscribe@googlegroups.com
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TCNL-unsubscribe@googlegroups.com
TCN archives:
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Questions, comments about the TCN? Please write the editor, Bernie Wagenblast at
i95berniew@aol.com.
© 2008 Bernie Wagenblast

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Tuesday, December 16, 2008


Transportation Communications Newsletter

Tuesday, December 16, 2008 -- ISSN 1529-1057


Program Manager for Safety

The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) is seeking a Program Manager for Safety in Washington, DC to assist in the work of the Standing Committee on Highway Traffic Safety and its Subcommittee on Safety Management, as well as coordinate the safety efforts of AASHTO’s other committees.
A broad understanding of the technical aspects of highway and transportation engineering and public works management and a sound comprehension of the administrative, legislative, and regulatory process at the federal and state levels is required. Travel 70–90 days per year. A B.S. in engineering or related safety technical field is required, post-graduate degree preferred. A min. of 7 years of professional exp. in transportation practice. Send resume to
cbeauvais@aashto.org. EOE. For more information, see http://transportation1.org/employmentopps/?lid=2153.


AVIATION

1) US Airways Pilots Halt Voluntary Data-Sharing Program
Link to story in The Wall Street Journal:
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122939040059509171.html

BUSES

2) New York MTA Puts Brakes on Bus Cams
Link to story in the New York Post:
http://www.nypost.com/seven/12162008/news/regionalnews/mta_puts_brakes_on_bus_cams_144459.htm

ELECTRONIC TOLLING

3) E-ZPass Passes Its First Rhode Island Test
Link to story in The Providence Journal:
http://newsblog.projo.com/2008/12/ezpass-launches.html

GPS / NAVIGATION

4) Rik Temmink, Tele Atlas: ‘With TomTom User-Generated Content We are Like Kids in a Candy Shop’
Link to interview in GPS Business News:
http://www.gpsbusinessnews.com/index.php?action=article&numero=1235

OTHER

5) UK Department for Transport Computer Upgrade was £81 Million Disaster
Link to story in The Scotsman:
http://news.scotsman.com/politics/Transport-computer-upgrade-was-81m.4795465.jp

RAILROADS

6) Call Might Have Averted Amtrak Crash in Missouri
Link to story in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch:
http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/news/stories.nsf/illinoisnews/story/85D8D372CDBF6AAF862575210014B8B9?OpenDocument

SAFETY / SECURITY

7) Facing TWIC Criticism, US Transportation Security Administration Temporarily Allows Alternate ID at Ports
Link to story in Land Line Magazine:
http://www.landlinemag.com/todays_news/Daily/2008/Dec08/121508/121508-02.htm

TELEMATICS

8) Telematics: When Your Car is Smarter than You
Link to story in the Shanghai Daily:
http://www.shanghaidaily.com/article/?id=384781

TRANSIT

9) Los Angeles MTA to Adopt Electronic Fare Card System
Link to story in the Los Angeles Times:
http://www.latimes.com/news/printedition/california/la-me-tap16-2008dec16,0,2791732.story

10) Toronto Transit Wait Times on Texts, Screens
Link to story in the Toronto Star:
http://www.thestar.com/article/554383
Link to further information from the Toronto Transit Commission:
http://www3.ttc.ca/About_the_TTC/Projects_and_initiatives/Next_vehicle_information_system/index.jsp

11) Video Speeds Up Chicago Transit Authority Repairs
Time-lapse photos document weekend rebuilding of elevated tracks and help identify efficiencies for future projects.
Link to column in the Chicago Tribune:
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/autocorner/chi-getting-around-15-dec15,0,4261279.column

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

12) Virginia DOT Upgrades I-81 Messaging
Link to story in The Roanoke Times:
http://www.roanoke.com/business/wb/187849

13) Statewide Opportunities for Linking Planning and Operations – A Primer
Link to publication from the Federal Highway Administration:
http://www.ops.fhwa.dot.gov/publications/fhwahop08028/index.htm

14) Information Systems, Geographic Information Systems, and Advanced Computing
Link to reports from the Transportation Research Board:
http://www.trb.org/news/blurb_detail.asp?id=9793


News Releases
1)
Intelligent Transport Systems and Services: Initiative for Accelerated Deployment Across Europe
2) Intelligent Transport Systems Action Plan – Key Questions and Answers
3) FlightStats Launches UK Site and European Flight Trackers
4) Washington Metro Updates Public Address System
5) ‘Connect by Hertz’ Launches Global Car Sharing Initiative
6) VTI Technologies: Accurate Navigation Now Possible Without GPS
7) Live at CeBIT 2009: Electronic Driver Assistance Comes of Age
8) Avis Budget Group to Roll Out TransCore’s eZGo Anywhere Wireless Toll Transponders for US Car Fleet


Job Postings
- Interdisciplinary, Supervisory General Engineer/Operations Research Analyst – Volpe National Transportation Systems Center – Cambridge, Massachusetts
http://jobsearch.usajobs.gov/getjob.asp?JobID=78070686 (Multimodal Logistics Enterprise Division)
http://jobsearch.usajobs.gov/getjob.asp?JobID=78070321 (Systems Engineering and Safety Division)
http://jobsearch.usajobs.gov/getjob.asp?JobID=78070854 (Crash Avoidance and Advanced Safety Systems Division)
http://jobsearch.usajobs.gov/getjob.asp?JobID=78070552 (Operations Risk Assessment and Terminal Systems Division)


Upcoming Events
Webinar: Individualized Marketing: Where Do We Go From Here? – March 3
http://webinars.cullbridge.com/course/info.php?id=44


Today in Transportation History
1913 **95th anniversary** - The Michigan Central Depot opened in Detroit. When it opened it was the tallest railroad station in the world.
http://user.mc.net/~louisvw/depot/det-mc/det-mc.htm

=============================================================================================
The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically Monday through Friday.
To subscribe send an e-mail to:
TCNL-subscribe@googlegroups.com
To unsubscribe send an e-mail to:
TCNL-unsubscribe@googlegroups.com
TCN archives:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/transport-communications

Questions, comments about the TCN? Please write the editor, Bernie Wagenblast at
i95berniew@aol.com.
© 2008 Bernie Wagenblast