Active Traffic Management (ATM)

Active Traffic Management (ATM) is becoming more and more effective in reducing delays due to traffic. ATM is not new, it's been around for decades; one of the oldest and most basic example is the beloved metered on ramp. Thanks to technology, development and execution is ever increasing with ATM.

Active Traffic Management ramped up in 2010, Washington began actively changing speed limits and using electronic signs for moving traffic from one lane to another for changing conditions. Sensors installed in the highways can detect traffic speeds, and when used with cameras, drivers can be informed by overhead signs regarding delays or potential problems ahead. Colorado has several projects underway where they are rebuilding or upgrading highways. US 36 is a good example, it's been completely torn out and is in the process of having a new highway installed between Denver and Boulder. The state hopes to finish the first phase by spring 2015 and when completed it will have three 12 foot lanes, one lane being a toll way or HOV without tolls. The other two lanes are general purpose and there will be four 12 foot shoulders. Overhead signs will direct traffic on to the shoulders to be used as regular lanes which will minimize delays due to construction or accidents. US 36 presents a problem where every 5-10 years rush hour traffic direction flips, traffic towards Boulder is heavy in the morning and light in the afternoon, five years ago it was the other way around. The flip is unique but traffic one way or the other is common to all urban areas.