Thursday, April 30, 2009

Transportation Communications Newsletter

Thursday, April 30, 2009 – ISSN 1529-1057

TIC3 From GEWI - One Platform, Multiple Deployment OptionsWhether you are looking to provide Interoperability between legacy systems, launch or upgrade a 511 Service, generate Traffic Flows & Predictive models, Traffic Alerts, Traffic Plans & Simulations, report on Work Zones & Road Conditions, run an automated Radio Traffic Advisory system, or produce Navigation Quality Data, TIC3 from GEWI is the solution. All of these services, and more, can be achieved by simple configuration of this single commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) software platform, already in use in over 100+ projects worldwide. To discuss your requirements, contact jim.oneill@gewi.com and look for GEWI in booth #329 at ITS America.


AVIATION

1) Aviation Industry Presses for ‘NextGen’ at Annual Summit
Link to story on NextGov:
http://www.nextgov.com/nextgov/ng_20090429_7144.php

2) Airports Seek Thermal-Scan Solution to Swine Flu Spread
Link to story in Wired:
http://www.wired.com/autopia/2009/04/airports-seek-thermal-scan-solution-to-swine-flu-spread/

3) AAAE, FAA Host Airfield Safety and Signage Meeting
Link to story on AviationNews:
http://www.aviationnews.net/?do=headline&news_ID=166848

4) In-Flight Wireless Ban Needs More Study
Link to commentary in the San Jose Mercury News:
http://www.mercurynews.com/opinion/ci_12257071

5) FAA’s Turn Toward Secrecy
Link to commentary on AVweb:
http://www.avweb.com/blogs/insider/AvWebInsider_PhotoOpTwo_200288-1.html

GPS / NAVIGATION

6) Norway Joins Galileo Project
Link to story in GPS World:
http://sidt.gpsworld.com/gpssidt/Latest+News/Norway-Joins-Galileo-Project/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/594438?contextCategoryId=33831

7) Communication on the Road
A low-cost GPS-based positioning architecture for V2V and V2I systems uses a scalable, flexible system that enables a range of in-vehicle safety features.
Link to story in GPS World:
http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/questex/gps0409/#/24

OTHER

8) Latest Issue of ERTICO-ITS Europe’s iMobility Newsletter
Link to newsletter:
http://tools.emailgarage.com/Pub/iaOjBgAAAAA~/ViewEmail.ashx

PARKING

9) Maryland Program Lets You Pay Parking Meters Using Your Cell Phone
Link to story on WTOP Radio:
http://www.wtop.com/?nid=30&sid=1662418

ROADWAYS

10) Report Finds More Flaws in Seattle DOT’s Snow Response
Link to story in the Seattle Post-Intelligencer:
http://www.seattlepi.com/local/405702_Storm30.html

SAFETY / SECURITY

11) Adirondack Northway Cell Gap Closed
Coverage expanded over sections of previously dark I-87.
Link to story in the Press-Republican:
http://www.pressrepublican.com/homepage/local_story_119233554.html

12) Illinois Lawmakers Propose School Bus Tracking Devices
Link to story in the Quad-City Times:
http://www.qctimes.com/news/local/article_9355348e-3544-11de-8944-001cc4c03286.html

13) The Dangers of Texting While Driving
Video captures what happens when bus driver is texting.
Link to story on NBC's Today:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/30472366#30472366

TRANSIT

14) Oregon Lawmakers Want ‘Greeters’ in Place at MAX Stations
Link to story in The Oregonian:
http://www.oregonlive.com/news/index.ssf/2009/04/lawmakers_want_greeters_in_pla.html

15) Mobile Transit Payment Project in the Works in France
Link to story in American Banker:
http://www.americanbanker.com/article.html?id=200904297V1PTSMA

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

16) Bringing Efficiency to the Infrastructure
A smart infrastructure wave may be coming.
Link to story in The New York Times:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/30/business/energy-environment/30smart.html?partner=rss&emc=rss&pagewanted=all


News Releases
1) Inrix Triples Real-Time Traffic Flow Coverage in North America to Over 160,000 Miles2) More than a Gadget Every Mile Keeps the UK on the Move
3) Automotive DMB/DAB Will Feel Heat from Internet Radio
4) Sensys Networks Honored Among This Year's Most Promising Private Technology Ventures in North America


Upcoming Events
International Congress on Sound and Vibration – July 5-9 – Kraków, Poland
http://www.icsv16.org/


Today in Transportation History
1939 **70th anniversary** - The New York World’s Fair opened with several transportation exhibits, including GM’s Futurama.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=74cO9X4NMb4

=============================================================================================
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.
© 2009 Bernie Wagenblast

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Transportation Communications Newsletter

Wednesday, April 29, 2009 – ISSN 1529-1057

AVIATION

1) Heat Scanners Give Cold Comfort During Flu Outbreak
Link to Reuters story:
http://news.airwise.com/story/view/1241011549.html

2) Feds Knew Air Force One Photo-Op Flyover Might Spark Panic in New York City – But Didn’t Give a Hoot
Link to story in the Daily News:
http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/2009/04/29/2009-04-29_feds_knew_flyover_might_spark_panic.html

3) New Zealand Airline Site Links Tourism Players
Link to story in The New Zealand Herald:
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/news/article.cfm?c_id=3&objectid=10569191
Link to Tourism Exchange New Zealand: http://www.tourismexchange.co.nz/

4) Integrating Airport Information Systems
Link to report from the Transportation Research Board:
http://www.trb.org/news/blurb_detail.asp?id=10316

CAMERAS

5) Why is Governance of CCTV Technology an Issue?
Link to story on MetroVideoMonitor:
http://metrovideomonitor.com/resource_center/report_weekly_newsletter/news/p/newsletterId_/id_11

ELECTRONIC TOLLING

6) Cheap Tolls May Worsen Traffic Jams in Japan
Link to story in The Japan Times:
http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20090429n1.html

MARITIME

7) Coordination, Situational Awareness Key Processes at Europe’s Largest Port
Link to story in Security Director News:
http://www.securitydirectornews.com/?p=article&id=sd200904J06upg

OTHER

8) £12 Million Rural Digital Research Boost
Funding will look at how technology can help improve issues such as transport and tourism.
Link to BBC News story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/north_east/8022953.stm

ROADWAYS

9) Trouble Brewing in Crimea…Over Traffic Signs
Organization protesting a decision to introduce bilingual traffic signs.
Link to story on Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty:
http://www.rferl.org/content/Trouble_Brewing_In_Crimea__Over_Traffic_Signs_/1617723.html

SAFETY / SECURITY

10) Texting While Driving Likely to Stay Legal in Florida
Link to story in the South Florida Sun-Sentinel:
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/breakingnews/sfl-texting-while-driving-legal-bn042809,0,6616773.story

TRANSIT

11) Florida’s SunRail Uses YouTube to State Its Case
Link to story on Central Florida News 13:
http://www.cfnews13.com/Business/LocalBusinessHeadlines/2009/4/27/sunrail_uses_youtube_state_its_case.html
Link to YouTube videos: http://www.youtube.com/user/SunRailer


News Releases
1) US Chief Technology Officer Nominee Aneesh Chopra to Moderate First CTO Roundtable at ITS America's 2009 Annual Meeting & Exposition


Upcoming Events
World Parking Symposium VII – June 28-July 1 – Breda, The Netherlands
http://www.worldparkingsymposium.ca/


Today in Transportation History
1939 **70th anniversary** - The Bronx-Whitestone Bridge opened, connecting the New York City boroughs of Queens and the Bronx.
http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/04/29/70th-birthday-of-the-bronx-whitestone-bridge/

=============================================================================================
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.
© 2009 Bernie Wagenblast

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Transportation Communications Newsletter

Tuesday, April 28, 2009 – ISSN 1529-1057

U.S. Chief Technology Officer Nominee Aneesh Chopra to Moderate CTO Roundtable at ITS America’s 2009 Annual Meeting & Exposition

President Obama’s nominee for U.S. Chief Technology Officer and Virginia’s Secretary of Technology, Aneesh Chopra, will moderate the CTO Roundtable at ITS America’s 2009 Annual Meeting & Exposition from 3:30 p.m.-5 p.m. on Monday, June 1 at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland. Offered for the first time at an ITS America Annual Meeting, the CTO Roundtable will bring together the technology experts of several organizations to present their vision for a technology-savvy organization and offer insights that will help shape and implement ITS solutions in the transportation arena. Discounted registration rates are available through April 30. For more information and to register, go to http://www.itsa.org/annualmeeting.html.


ELECTRONIC TOLLING

1) All-Electronic North Texas Tollway Authority Toll Booth System Delayed
Link to AP story:
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/tx/6395867.html

GPS / NAVIGATION

2) Obama Lifts Up GPS in Speech to US Scientists
Link to story in Inside GNSS:
http://www.insidegnss.com/node/1475

OTHER

3) New Google Search Tool Aimed at Making Sense of Public Data
Link to story in The Washington Post:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/28/AR2009042802280.html

ROADWAYS

4) Road Safety Interview: Sweden’s Vision Zero
Link to interview on Allianz Knowledge:
http://knowledge.allianz.com/en/globalissues/safety_health/road_safety/road_safety_vision_zero/article629.html

SAFETY / SECURITY

5) New York MTA a Tech Wreck
Lawsuit says high-tech security project can’t be completed.
Link to story in the New York Post:
http://www.nypost.com/seven/04282009/news/regionalnews/mta_a_tech_wreck_166543.htm

6) Microsoft Launches Social Media Tool
Emergency managers could use Vine to communicate with citizens.
Link to story in Government Technology:
http://www.govtech.com/gt/articles/648644

TELEMATICS

7) Mercedes’ OnStar Clone Tries Out Ads
Link to story in PC Magazine:
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2346045,00.asp

TRANSIT

8) TransLink Fare Cards Pass BART Tests
Link to story in the San Francisco Chronicle:
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/04/27/BAPV17A4OD.DTL

9) Contactless Fare Collection Systems Moving Forward
Link to story in ContactlessNews:
http://www.contactlessnews.com/2009/04/27/contactless-fare-collection-systems-moving-forward
Link to news release from the Smart Card Alliance:
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/The-Smart-Card-Alliance-980102.html

10) Transit Alerts that Work
Link to story and video on WNYW-TV:
http://www.myfoxny.com/dpp/good_day_ny/090427_transit_alerts_best_of


News Releases
1) OnStar Shines for GM, as Auto Telematics Becomes Mainstream
2) Celebrate National Train Day Online with Streaming Video Programming Featuring the History of American Passenger Rail Service and the California Zephyr
3) Navteq Unveils a New Look and Enhancements for Navteq Traffic.com
4) New Kentucky Traffic Safety Web Site Launched


Upcoming Events
The Great West Truck Show – June 25-27 – Las Vegas
http://www.greatwesttruckshow.com/


Today in Transportation History
1789 **220th anniversary** - The mutiny on the HMAV Bounty took place.
http://www.fatefulvoyage.com/

=============================================================================================
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.
© 2009 Bernie Wagenblast

Monday, April 27, 2009

Transportation Communications Newsletter

Monday, April 27, 2009 – ISSN 1529-1057

AVIATION

1) Airports’ Reporting of Bird Strikes Inconsistent
Link to story in USA Today:
http://www.usatoday.com/travel/flights/2009-04-26-birdstrikes_N.htm

2) California Air Traffic Facilities Rely on Trainees
Link to AP story:
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5iZVZ2TIKS6bAjzHKob0wTFPXjBUgD97QUKMO0
Link to further information from the US DOT Inspector General:
http://www.oig.dot.gov/item.jsp?id=2453

3) ADS-B Enters US Air Traffic Management Arena
Link to story in Aviation Week:
http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_generic.jsp?channel=awst&id=news/aw042709p1.xml&headline=ADS-B%20Enters%20U.S.%20Air%20Traffic%20Management%20Arena

4) Air Force One Photo Op Triggers Panic in Manhattan
Normal system of public notification broke down.
Link to story and video on ABC News’ World News:
http://www.abcnews.go.com/Blotter/story?id=7439287&page=1

5) Hot New Aircraft Features
From shower stalls to Wi-Fi.
Link to story from Forbes Traveler:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/30195496/

PARKING

6) Evaluation of Transit Applications of Advanced Parking Management Systems – Final Evaluation Report
Link to report from US DOT:
http://www.itsdocs.fhwa.dot.gov/JPODOCS//REPTS_TE/14460.htm

ROADWAYS

7) Texas’ Bush Turnpike Tolls to Go All-Electronic
Link to story in the Dallas Business Journal:
http://www.bizjournals.com/dallas/stories/2009/04/20/daily71.html

8) Arizona Group Wants I-91 Metric Signs Kept
Link to story in the Arizona Daily Star:
http://www.azstarnet.com/metro/290334

9) Could Timely Twitter Tweet Thwart a Ticket?
In Seattle drivers using Twitter to warn of speed traps.
Link to story on KOMO-TV:
http://www.komonews.com/news/tech/43742627.html

SAFETY / SECURITY

10) Thermal Imaging Scanners at Major International Airports in Malaysia to Spot Swine Flu
Link to story in the New Straits Times:
http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Monday/NewsBreak/20090427190025/Article/index_html

TRANSIT

11) More Bus Information Boards to be Installed in Seoul Area
Link to story in The Chosun Ilbo:
http://english.chosun.com/site/data/html_dir/2009/04/27/2009042700666.html

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

12) Managing Traffic in a New Way
Pennsylvania DOT's new traffic center keeps watch of Harrisburg-area traffic.
Link to story on WHP-TV:
http://www.whptv.com/news/local/story/Managing-Traffic-in-a-New-Way/fW0n5W5OdEi7cK0FbJywqg.cspx

13) Hyderabad Cops Launch Web Site for Live Traffic Updates
Link to Press Trust of India story:
http://news.in.msn.com/national/article.aspx?cp-documentid=2996832
Link to site: http://www.htp.gov.in/

14) ITS Initiatives for Traffic Management in Bangalore
Link to story in the Deccan Herald:
http://www.deccanherald.com/Content/Apr272009/city20090427132723.asp

15) When Will Ahmedabad See Smart Eyes on the Road?
Link to story in The Times of India:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Ahmedabad/When-will-city-see-smart-eyes-on-the-road/articleshow/4452451.cms

VEHICLES

16) Florida May Issue Christian License Plates
Bill would allow plates with image of Jesus and one with a cross.
Link to story in The Miami Herald:
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/legislature/story/1016751.html


News Releases
1) Al-Markazia Launches 'Anta Muraqab' (Traffic Safety) Campaign in Lebanon
2) Inrix Traffic to Enhance Live 411 Search - Mobile users now have free, instant voice-enabled access to local traffic


Upcoming Events
Snow and Ice Management Association 12th Annual Snow & Ice Symposium – June 24-27 – Louisville, Kentucky
http://www.sima.org/displaycommon.cfm?an=7


Today in Transportation History
1909 **100th anniversary** - An experiment in Washington, DC tested how well roads could handle high-speed automobiles. The top speed reached was 70 mph.
http://www.transportation.org/?siteid=86&pageid=2219

=============================================================================================
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.
© 2009 Bernie Wagenblast

Friday, April 24, 2009

Transportation Communications Newsletter

Friday, April 24, 2009 – ISSN 1529-1057

Public Meeting on IntelliDriveSM Proof of Concept (POC) Results and Findings - May 19

The US Department of Transportation would like to invite you to the upcoming Public Meeting on IntelliDriveSM Proof of Concept (POC) Results and Findings, which will take place on May 19 at the Sheraton Detroit Novi in Novi, Michigan. POC testing resulted in a number of interesting findings, which will shape the coming activities on the IntelliDriveSM program. Key POC participants from government and industry will discuss the testing that took place and present their findings, recommendations, and lessons learned at this meeting, as well as the next steps for the IntelliDriveSM program and the Michigan testbed. The results should also be of interest to industry representatives from the automakers and makers of after-market devices; federal, state, and local transportation officials; system integrators; information service providers; and university researchers. The event is free, however registration is required for participation. For more information on the meeting or to register, click here or contact Chris Lane at clane@itsa.org.


AVIATION

1) FAA’s Bird Strike Database Goes Public
Link to ABC News story:
http://abcnews.go.com/Travel/story?id=7419909&page=1
Link to database: http://wildlife-mitigation.tc.faa.gov/public_html/index.html#access

2) US Airways Rejects PETA Seal Hunting Ad
Link to story in the Phoenix Business Journal:
http://phoenix.bizjournals.com/phoenix/stories/2009/04/20/daily66.html
Link to further information from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals:
http://blog.peta.org/archives/2009/04/us_airways_peta.php

CAMERAS

3) In Arizona, Cameras that Nab Speeders Record a Murder, Too
Link to story in The Christian Science Monitor:
http://www.csmonitor.com/2009/0424/p02s06-usgn.html

ELECTRONIC TOLLING

4) Minnesota Rips Illinois Tollway About Drivers It Says Were Unfairly Ticketed
Attorney general demands agency update car registration data.
Link to story in the Chicago Tribune:
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/chi-minnesota-illinois-tollway-2apr24,0,1750341.story
Link to news release from the Minnesota Attorney General:
http://www.ag.state.mn.us/Consumer/PressRelease/090424FaultyTollway.asp

GPS / NAVIGATION

5) Guide Dog GPS Device Up for Award
Link to BBC News story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/wales/8015296.stm

6) GPS in Cars Can Save Time and Money
Link to column in U.S. News & World Report:
http://www.usnews.com/blogs/daves-download/2009/04/23/gps-in-cars-can-save-time-and-money.html
Link to news release from Navteq:
http://www.navteq.com/webapps/NewsUserServlet?action=NewsDetail&newsId=724&lang=en&englishonly=false

MARITIME

7) Nortel Reporting System Helps Protect Endangered Whale
Link to story in Washington Technology:
http://washingtontechnology.com/articles/2009/04/17/nortel-system-looks-to-protect-endangered-whale.aspx

OTHER

8) San Jose, California Street Lights Get Smarter
Link to story in Fortune:
http://money.cnn.com/2009/04/24/technology/street_lights_echelon.fortune/?postversion=2009042412

SAFETY / SECURITY

9) Digital IDs Make Clearing Customs Easier for US Citizens Traveling Abroad
Link to story in USA Today:
http://www.usatoday.com/travel/flights/2009-04-23-fastentry_N.htm

10) Feds Turn to ‘Brain Music’ to Boost Emergency Worker Performance
Link to story in Wired:
http://blog.wired.com/defense/2009/04/musical-mind-co.html

SPACE

11) NASA Astronaut Says He Will Twitter from Space
Link to story in Computerworld:
http://www.computerworld.com/action/article.do?command=viewArticleBasic&articleId=9132051

TELEMATICS

12) Toyota Plans ‘G-Book’ Telematics Service in China
Link to story on Tech-On:
http://techon.nikkeibp.co.jp/english/NEWS_EN/20090423/169207/

TRANSIT

13) Los Angeles MTA Approves Spanish Translation of Gold Line
Link to story in the Los Angeles Times:
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2009/04/mta-approves-spanish-translation-of-gold-line.html

14) New Report Cites Nation’s ‘Transit Innovations’
Link to story in Progressive Railroading:
http://www.progressiverailroading.com/news/article.asp?id=20253
Link to report from the Environmental Defense Fund:
http://www.edf.org/page.cfm?tagID=38941&redirect=transit

15) iPhone App Showdown: Battle of the CTA Bus Trackers
Link to story on ARS Technica:
http://arstechnica.com/apple/reviews/2009/04/iphone-app-showdown-battle-of-the-cta-bus-trackers.ars

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

16) New Traffic Operations Center Opens for Western Australia Police
Link to story in The West Australian:
http://www.thewest.com.au/default.aspx?MenuID=77&ContentID=137946

VEHICLES

17) Vanity Plates Catch ACLU’s Eye
Link to story in The Denver Post:
http://www.denverpost.com/breakingnews/ci_12213302


News Releases
1) Speed Enforcement: Make Roads Safer and Increase the Number of Valid Reads
2) Cyprus Airport Guide Launched by Creators of the Successful Spanish Airport Guide


Upcoming Events
5th International Driving Symposium on Human Factors in Driver Assessment, Training, and Vehicle Design – June 22-25 – Big Sky, Montana
http://ppc.uiowa.edu/driving-assessment/2009/


Friday Bonus
Don’t worry…this does not smell like you think it does. Take a closer look.
http://commercial-archive.com/n1rv4n4g8/2008/octjpgs/NED_BAONTV_busreklames.jpg


Today in Transportation History
1834 – 175th anniversary of the charter of the Long Island Rail Road.
http://www.mta.info/lirr/Video/175thAnniversary/

=============================================================================================
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.
© 2009 Bernie Wagenblast

Thursday, April 23, 2009

Transportation Communications Newsletter

Thursday, April 23, 2009 – ISSN 1529-1057

Registration is now open for IBTTA’s Upcoming Summit — The Future of Tolling: ORT and the Path to Interoperability, June 14-16, 2009 in Tampa, FL

Join IBTTA in Tampa, FL and receive cutting-edge information from agencies and toll service providers around the globe on the latest in all-electronic tolling, toll traffic management, and achieving full interoperability. This is the only Summit in the world in 2009 focused on the critical topics of Open Road Tolling, All-Electronic Tolling and Interoperability and will feature more than 100 of our industry’s most experienced and knowledgeable speakers, panelists and exhibitors. What matters most is your customer’s experience driving your roads, the quality of service they receive during the payment process and your success in collecting those payments. Are your customers satisfied? Visit IBTTA’s website to view the preliminary agenda and register today!


AVIATION

1) FAA Plan Would Require Alarms on Air Ambulances
Would warn pilot if helicopter is in danger of hitting the ground.
Link to story in USA Today:
http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2009-04-23-air-ambulance_N.htm
Link to FAA testimony at congressional hearing:
http://www.faa.gov/news/testimony/news_story.cfm?newsId=10497

BUSES

2) Taiwan Lawmakers Criticize ‘Smart Bus’ Plan
System to inform riders of arrival times called a waste of money.
Link to story in the Taipei Times:
http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2009/04/24/2003441897

CAMERAS

3) Traffic Camera Lawsuit Could Force Cleveland to Refund Millions in Fines
Link to story in The Plain Dealer:
http://www.cleveland.com/news/plaindealer/index.ssf?/base/cuyahoga/1240475581234500.xml&coll=2

4) Legislation Introduced in Ohio to Ban Red Light Cameras
Link to story in the Dayton Daily News:
http://www.daytondailynews.com/blogs/content/shared-gen/blogs/dayton/ohiopolitics/entries/2009/04/22/legislation_introduced_to_ban.html

5) Wisconsin Highway 172 Cameras Proving Useful in Emergencies
Link to story on WBAY-TV:
http://www.wbay.com/Global/story.asp?S=10233347

6) Pennsylvania DOT Adds Traffic Cameras on I-79
Link to story in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette:
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09113/964884-454.stm

PUBLIC INFORMATION / EDUCATION

7) Cities Track Stimulus Money on New Web Sites
Link to story in Washington Technology:
http://washingtontechnology.com/articles/2009/04/23/city-web-sites-are-tracking-stimulus-funds.aspx

RAILROADS

8) Remote Control is a Failure for Railroads
Link to commentary on Seeking Alpha:
http://seekingalpha.com/article/132466-remote-control-is-a-failure-for-railroads

ROADWAYS

9) Eye-Catching Highway Billboards in Newfoundland and Labrador to be Trashed
Link to CBC News story:
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/newfoundland-labrador/story/2009/04/22/highway-billboards-422.html

SAFETY / SECURITY

10) Satellite Tracking for School Buses in North Wales
Parents will be able to use satellite tracking to check their children are on the school bus, as part of a new pilot project.
Link to BBC News story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/wales/8009624.stm

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

11) Beat the Traffic Embraces Bluetooth
Uses Wii remote for interactive reporting.
Link to story and video in Broadcasting & Cable:
http://www.broadcastingcable.com/article/209798-NAB_2009_Beat_the_Traffic_Embraces_Bluetooth.php

VEHICLES

12) European Parliament Backs Strict Labeling for Tires
Link to story on EurActiv:
http://www.euractiv.com/en/transport/parliament-backs-strict-labelling-tyres/article-181540


News Releases
1) US DOT Requests Public Comments on ITS Program
2) ‘Intelligent Transport Systems’: Using Technology to Make EU Roads Safer
3) Urban Mobility: More EU Funding Wanted for Inner-City Transport Systems
4) SITA and Appear Deploy First Context-Aware Mobile Platform for Airlines and Airports
5) Kansas City Royals Enhance Fan Experience in New Kaufmann Stadium – Cisco StadiumVision System Will Include Traffic Updates
6) NTSB Acting Chairman Praises DOT Secretary for Release of Bird Strike Data, Suggestion for Mandatory Reporting
7) Ford’s MyKey Teen Safety Technology Honored, Praised for Potential Life-Saving Benefits


Upcoming Events
FTA’s Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) Program Strategic Planning Workshop – May 6 – Chicago
http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/transport-communications-add/message/38


Today in Transportation History
1949 **60th anniversary** - The People’s Liberation Navy was founded in China.
http://www.straitstimes.com/Breaking%2BNews/Asia/Story/STIStory_366419.html

=============================================================================================
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: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/transport-communications

Questions, comments about the TCN? Please write the editor, Bernie Wagenblast at i95berniew@aol.com.
© 2009 Bernie Wagenblast

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Transportation Communications Newsletter

Wednesday, April 22, 2009 – ISSN 1529-1057

TIC for Traffic Plans and Simulation - Create and Operate with Live and Historic DataTIC can be used in off-line mode with historic data to create, simulate, and compare pre-defined traffic plans for expected traffic situations. TIC can then be used in on-line mode with both live and historic data to monitor the network. Once a situation is identified, TIC can recommend the best plans to operators within minutes, and if an unexpected situation is identified, TIC can be used to create and recommend new traffic plans, such as during evacuations. TIC can consider the complete road network, traffic patterns, weather, work zones, social events, sensors, CO2, NOx, and particle emissions, and more. TIC is a commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) solution proven in over 100 projects operating worldwide, and can be deployed faster, more affordably, and with less risk than build-your-own solutions.See the new TIC3 at GEWI booth #329 at the ITS America Conference or contact jim.oneill@gewi.com to discuss your requirements.


AVIATION

1) US Department of Transportation Reverses FAA on Bird Strike Data
Link to story in The Washington Post:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/22/AR2009042202057.html
Link to blog entry from Secretary of Transportation, Ray LaHood:
http://fastlane.dot.gov/2009/04/public-disclosure-is-our-job.html

2) FAA Video Makes Case for Air Traffic Control Revamp
Link to story in Wired:
http://blog.wired.com/cars/2009/04/faa-makes-case.html

3) Program Looks to Boost Image of Private Aviation
Link to story in the Wichita Business Journal:
http://www.bizjournals.com/wichita/stories/2009/04/20/daily20.html
Link to further information from the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association:
http://www.aopa.org/advocacy/articles/2009/090420gaservesamerica.html

4) Alaska Air Approved as First Airline to Conduct Own Required Navigation Performance Flight Validation
Link to story in Air Transport World Magazine:
http://atwonline.com/news/story.html?storyID=16354

OTHER

5) All States Now Have Stimulus-Tracking Web Sites
Link to story in Federal Computer Week:
http://fcw.com/articles/2009/04/20/news-recovery-links.aspx

SAFETY / SECURITY

6) Homeland Defense: Actions Needed to Address Management of Air Sovereignty Alert Operations to Protect US Airspace
Link to testimony from the US Government Accountability Office:
http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d09612t.pdf

TRANSIT

7) Interactive Maps Debut on Tokyo Subway
Link to IDG News Service story:
http://www.pcworld.com/article/163473/interactive_maps_debut_on_tokyo_subway.html

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

8) Virginia Officials Pull from Previous Incident to Streamline Response
Link to story in The Northern Virginia Daily:
http://www.nvdaily.com/news/2009/04/officials-pull-from-previous-incident-to.html

9) New South Wales Opposition Slams Slow F3 Response
Opponents say government took too long to respond to the traffic chaos caused by a fatal truck accident on a major freeway.
Link to story on 9News:
http://news.ninemsn.com.au/national/804839/nsw-opposition-slams-slow-f3-response


News Releases
1) Intelligent Transportation Society of America Introduces New Online Supplier Directory for ITS Industry


Upcoming Events
15th International Conference on Urban Transport and the Environment – June 22-24 – Bologna, Italy
http://www.wessex.ac.uk/09-conferences/urban-transport-2009.html


Today in Transportation History
1969 **40th anniversary** - Robin Knox-Johnston completed the first single-handed non-stop circumnavigation of the globe in a sailboat.
http://www.robinknox-johnston.co.uk/

=============================================================================================
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.
© 2009 Bernie Wagenblast

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Transportation Communications Newsletter

Tuesday, April 21, 2009 – ISSN 1529-1057

Regular Registration Ends April 30 for ITS America’s 2009 Annual Meeting & Exposition

The deadline to register at the regular registration rate for the 2009 Annual Meeting and Exposition of ITS America is rapidly approaching! Members of ITS America and public sector employees can register for $800.00 - that's a $100.00 discount off the late registration rate! Full registration includes admittance to all educational sessions, the exhibit hall, the Technology Showcase, and ITS America's networking events. With ITS America 2009 in the Metro Washington Area, this is a wonderful opportunity to interact with legislators on the federal, state, and local level to showcase ITS products and services. In addition to policy and technical sessions, the event will feature “city streets” vehicle and infrastructure technology demonstrations, a 150,000 square foot exhibit hall, tours of area transportation projects and facilities, and many other activities. Be sure to take advantage of these registration rates before they increase on May 1. For more information on registration packages and to register, click here.


AVIATION

1) Hudson Ditching Survivor Joins Overwhelming Public Opposition to FAA Bird Strike Data Secrecy
Link to AP story:
http://www.startribune.com/nation/43306877.html?elr=KArks:DCiUMEaPc:UiD3aPc:_Yyc:aULPQL7PQLanchO7DiUr
Link to all responses:
http://www.regulations.gov/fdmspublic/component/main?main=DocketDetail&d=FAA-2009-0245

2) Airline Leaders Shift Focus on Air Traffic Control Replacement
Link to story in USA Today:
http://www.usatoday.com/travel/news/2009-04-20-nextgen-air-traffic-control_N.htm

CAMERAS

3) Police: Suspect in Custody in Murder of Photo Radar Worker
Link to story in The Arizona Republic.
http://www.azcentral.com/community/phoenix/articles/2009/04/19/20090419photoworker-ON.html

OTHER

4) DC First in Line for Free Mobile Digital TV; Other Cities to Follow
Link to story in The Washington Post:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/20/AR2009042001302.html

ROADWAYS

5) Missouri City, Texas Approves Intelligent Transportation System
Link to story on FortBendNow:
http://www.fortbendnow.com/2009/04/21/37268

SAFETY / SECURITY

6) Secure Flight Roils Booking Technology
Link to story in Business Travel News:
http://www.btnonline.com/businesstravelnews/headlines/frontpage_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003963792

TELEMATICS

7) Low on Oil? Check Your Cell Phone
Link to story in The Korea Herald:
http://www.koreaherald.co.kr/NEWKHSITE/data/html_dir/2009/04/22/200904220069.asp

TRANSIT

8) Dubai Commuters Can Now Plan Their Journey
Link to story in the Gulf News:
http://www.gulfnews.com/nation/Traffic_and_Transport/10305737.html
Link to Wojhati: http://www.rta.ae/WOJHATI/dub/XSLT_TRIP_REQUEST2?language=en

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

9) Streetfilms: Behind the Scenes at Los Angeles Traffic Control
Link to video on Streetsblog:
http://www.streetsblog.org/2009/04/20/streetfilms-behind-the-scenes-at-la-traffic-control/


News Releases
1) Public Meeting on IntelliDrive Proof of Concept (POC) Results and Findings
2) Aviation Weather, Flight Planning and Airport Data on Your Cell Phone
3) DC Metro Expands Advertising Opportunities with New Digital Projection Advertising
4) Cadcorp Launches CCTV Mapping System


Upcoming Events
12th International Conference on Automated People Movers – May 31-June 3 – Atlanta
http://content.asce.org/files/pdf/APM09_PreProgram_v14_000.pdf


Today in Transportation History
1994 **15th anniversary** - US DOT unveiled its ‘Share the Road’ public service campaign.
http://www.sharetheroadsafely.org/supportingMaterials/shareTheRoadFinalReport.asp

=============================================================================================
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.
© 2009 Bernie Wagenblast

Monday, April 20, 2009

Transportation Communications Newsletter

Monday, April 20, 2009 – ISSN 1529-1057

CAMERAS

1) Chattanooga: Cashing in on Car Cameras
Link to story in the Chattanooga Times Free Press:
http://timesfreepress.com/news/2009/apr/20/chattanooga-cashing-car-cameras/

2) Maryland Speed Camera Law Could Go to Voters
Link to story in The Washington Times:
http://washingtontimes.com/news/2009/apr/19/speed-camera-law-could-go-to-voters/

3) Bangkok to Install 10,000 CCTV Cameras for Added Security and to Monitor Traffic
Link to Thai News Agency story:
http://enews.mcot.net/view.php?id=9579

ELECTRONIC TOLLING

4) Six South Florida Expressways to Collect All Tolls Electronically
Link to story in The Miami Herald:
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/broward/story/1007893.html

5) E-ZPass Records Offer Key Evidence
Nearly half of subpoenas to New York Thruway are rejected.
Link to story in the Times Herald-Record:
http://www.recordonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090419/NEWS/904190316/-1/NEWS

6) Warning Letters Decrease Speeding at New Hampshire Tolls
Link to story in Foster's Daily Democrat:
http://www.fosters.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090418/GJNEWS_01/704189917

MARITIME

7) Virginia DOT Limiting On-Ferry Activities
Memo prohibits passenger distribution of flyers following information on possible service cuts.
Link to story in the Smithfield Times:http://www.smithfieldtimes.com/index.php/news/25-top-stories/80-vdot-limiting-on-ferry-activities

OTHER

8) New York City Taxis May Get Internet Access on Back-Seat TVs
Link to story in the Business Mirror:
http://businessmirror.com.ph/component/content/article/52-technology/9013-new-york-city-taxis-may-get-internet-access-on-back-seat-tvs.html

9) April Issue of IEEE Intelligent Transportation Systems Society Newsletter Online
Link to newsletter:
http://www.ieeeitss.org/v11n2.pdf

RAILROADS

10) Follow Historic Train Trip on Twitter
Link to AP story:
http://www.usatoday.com/travel/news/2009-04-20-twitter-train-tour_N.htm

ROADWAYS

11) Virginia DOT Tries Paint to Promote Road SafetyZigzag pattern used on approach to trail crossing.
Link to column in The Washington Post:http://voices.washingtonpost.com/getthere/2009/04/vdot_tries_paint_to_promote_sa.html

12) Safety Behind New Mile Marker Signs on Massachusetts Highways
Link to story from The Standard-Times:
http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090418/NEWS/904180350

SAFETY / SECURITY

13) Legislator Says Virginia DOT Wasting Money on Police Radios
Says units, which allow highway crews to communicate directly with state police, are unnecessary.
Link to story in The Northern Virginia Daily:
http://www.nvdaily.com/news/2009/04/gilbert-vdot-wasting-funds-on-police-rad.html

14) University of Michigan Launches Field Testing of Safety System for Passenger Cars
Link to story on WWJ Radio:
http://www.wwj.com/UM-Launches-Field-Testing-Of-Safety-System-For-Pas/4235192

TRANSIT

15) Seattle-Area Transit Agencies Unveil All-Purpose Pass
Link to story in the Seattle Post-Intelligencer:
http://www.seattlepi.com/transportation/405269_ORCA18.html

16) Fredericton Transit Bus Fleet May Go High-Tech
Internet, webcams, wireless access down the road?
Link to story in The Daily Gleaner:
http://dailygleaner.canadaeast.com/front/article/640542

17) (Fake) Signs of Bad Times for the New York MTA
Web site allows riders to print notices that look like the real thing.
Link to story in the Daily News:
http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/2009/04/18/2009-04-18_fake_signs_of_bad_times_for_the_mta.html
Link to site: http://www.whereandy.com/

18) Economy, Standards Stand in the Way of Near Field Communications
Link to story in ContactlessNews:
http://www.contactlessnews.com/2009/04/20/economy-standards-stand-in-the-way-of-nfc

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

19) Traffic Monitoring Center Set Up in Malaysia
Link to story in The Star:
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2009/4/18/nation/3723588&sec=nation

20) LG Telecom to Launch Free Traffic Information to Mobile Phone Subscribers in Korea
Link to story in The Chosun Ilbo:
http://english.chosun.com/site/data/html_dir/2009/04/20/2009042000788.html

21) Hands On with Ford Sirius Travel Link
Link to review on autoinsane:
http://www.autoinsane.com/2009/04/20/news/tech/hands-on-with-ford-sirius-travel-link/


News Releases
1) Broadcaster Traffic Consortium Expands with New Broadcasting Partners, More RDS and HD Radio Broadcasting Market Coverage


Upcoming Events
The History of Sleeping Cars 150th Anniversary Symposium – April 23-26 – Chicago
http://www.trainweb.org/pths/symposium.html


Today in Transportation History
1534 **475th anniversary** - Jacques Cartier began a journey which brought him to present day Labrador and Prince Edward Island.
http://www3.sympatico.ca/goweezer/canada/z00cartier1.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.
© 2009 Bernie Wagenblast

Friday, April 17, 2009

Transportation Communications Newsletter

Friday, April 17, 2009 – ISSN 1529-1057

Daily Twitter Updates for TCN

If you’d like a preview of what’s coming up in the TCN, you can now follow me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/brwagenblast.


AVIATION

1) The FAA and the Freedom of Information Act
Link to column in The Dallas Morning News:
http://watchdogblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2009/04/the-faa-and-the-freedom-of-inf.html

2) Logan Airport to Try High-Tech Bird-Detection System
Link to story on WBZ-TV:
http://wbztv.com/local/bird.detection.system.2.986910.html

3) Delta No Longer Sending Reservation Calls to India
Link to AP story:
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Delta-no-longer-sending-apf-14957481.html?.v=3

GPS / NAVIGATION

4) GPS Units Plug Into the Web, but We’re Not There Yet
Link to column in The Washington Post:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/17/AR2009041700047.html

MARITIME

5) Maritime Academy Simulates Pirate Attacks
Link to story and video report on KGO-TV:
http://abclocal.go.com/kgo/story?section=news/local/east_bay&id=6765847

6) US Government Accountability Office Urges Review of Ship-Tracking Plans
Link to story in Federal Computer Week:
http://fcw.com/articles/2009/04/17/web-tracking-ships.aspx
Link to GAO report: http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d09337.pdf

ROADWAYS

7) For Massachusetts Pike Chief, Tact Not Part of the Job
Link to story in The Boston Globe:
http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2009/04/17/for_pike_chief_tact_not_part_of_the_job/

TRANSIT

8) ‘Suicide’ Ad Irks Toronto Transit Authority
Link to story in The Globe and Mail:
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20090417.wsubway17art12247/BNStory/National/home

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

9) Intelligent Transportation Projects Get Stimulus Funding
Link to story in Government Technology:
http://www.govtech.com/gt/articles/641154

10) Profile of San Francisco Traffic Reporter Liz Saint John
Link to column in the San Francisco Chronicle:
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/04/17/PKDQ16V7SU.DTL

11) Technologies that Compliment Congestion Pricing – A Primer
Link to publication from the Federal Highway Administration:
http://www.ops.fhwa.dot.gov/publications/fhwahop08043/cp_prim3_00.htm

12) Best Practices in Traffic Incident Management
Link to draft report from the Federal Highway Administration:
http://www.nasemsd.org/Projects/HITS/documents/tim_best_practices2.pdf

VEHICLES

13) Pay Up or Your Car Engine Will Stop
Link to AOL Autos story:
http://edition.cnn.com/2009/LIVING/wayoflife/04/17/aa.bills.shut.engine.down/


News Releases
1) HelloFlight.com Announces ‘Exclusive/First-Time Available to Public’ FAA Online Flight Tracking Tools
2) The 7,000km Long, Four Terabyte ‘Gadget’ that Keeps the UK on the Move
3) Toyota to Show Infrastructure-Linked Driving Safety Systems


Job Posting
- General Engineer – Volpe National Transportation Systems Center – Cambridge, Massachusetts
http://jobsearch.usajobs.gov/getjob.asp?JobId=80513390&AVSDM=4%2F17%2F2009+3%3A43%3A04+PM


Upcoming Events
Performance Measures — A Case Study in Progress Webinar – May 6
http://www.pcb.its.dot.gov/t3/s090506_perfmeas.asp


Friday Bonus
Here’s a way to kill two birds with one stone. You can save money AND calm traffic!
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/essex/8001310.stm


Today in Transportation History
April 17, 1964 **45th anniversary** - Ford introduced the Mustang at the New York World’s Fair.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NFWS2aIAOpQ

=============================================================================================
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.
© 2009 Bernie Wagenblast