Traditionally, transportation system operations have been constrained by jurisdictional and administrative boundaries. Local governments and state agencies have operated facilities for which they are responsible with little coordination. As surface transportation mobility challenges continue to increase, it is evident that although different localities and agencies may still operate their own systems, there is a need for coordinated regional operations. An important component of enabling such coordination is the achievement of consistency in the standard operating procedures (SOPs) used by the individual transportation operations centers (TOCs). Historically, each TOC has developed its own SOPs, suited to its own unique needs and the resources available. Although these individual SOPs have served their TOCs well, such customized operations procedures of a TOC are often not compatible with its neighboring TOCs. As such, establishing regional coordination, especially to manage large-scale incidents or emergencies, is difficult. In this research effort a methodology was developed to analyze TOC SOPs to find opportunities to increase regional consistency. This methodology was applied in a case study to analyze the SOPs of the five TOCs and the statewide emergency operations center in the state of Virginia. The results of this study indicate that several differences indeed hamper coordination among the centers. At the same time a number of procedures with the potential for increased consistency are also identified. Information contained in this paper will benefit systems integrators, planners, researchers, and other transportation professionals involved in regional integration efforts and in policy and procedures review.
Analysis of Standard Operating Procedures for Enhanced Regional Transportation Systems Operations
Transportation Research Record
Transportation Research Record: Journal of the Transportation Research Board ; 2099 , 1 ; 94-101
2009-01-01
Aufsatz (Zeitschrift)
Elektronische Ressource
Englisch
Analysis of Standard Operating Procedures for Enhanced Regional Transportation Systems Operations
Online Contents | 2009
|Regional Concept for Transportation Operations
Transportation Research Record | 2005
|Regional Transportation Systems Management and Operations; Managed Lanes 2008
Online Contents | 2008