Motorists in San Fransisco will soon be able to take advantage of the nation’s largest highway express lane system.
The Metropolitan Transportation Commissions Bay Area Infrastructure Financing Authority (BAIFA) has selected a contractor that will develop the USAs largest express lane network in San Franciscos Bay Area.
The competitively procured US$54.6m project will see TransCore develop, integrate, convert and maintain a network of 90 miles of existing high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes into express lanes on I-680 from Dublin to Walnut Creek; I-880 from the Santa Clara County line to San Leandro; and I-80 in Fairfield. The work is expected to be completed by the end of 2017.
The aims of the project are to: improve connectivity by closing gaps in the existing HOV network; improve freeway efficiency by making the best use of existing capacity; provide motorists with dynamically-priced lane alternatives and carpoolers and buses with a reliable, congestion-free option; and enable future improvements with little to no interruption to motorists.
To accomplish the project goals, TransCore will implement an express lane tolling system using its Infinity Digital Lane System, also known as Infinity Express, which uses a system of innovative readers, sensors, and imaging devices to dynamically set user fees, based upon real-time traffic conditions, that will then be prominently displayed on road message signs.
The company will also integrate its TransSuite Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS), into a robust communications network. The enhanced connectivity will enable Bay Area agencies to better monitor and respond to traffic conditions in real-time through the immediate exchange of data among transportation agencies and the California Highway Patrol.
After a diligent evaluation, we found TransCores proposal to be the strongest technically and also to provide the best value, said MTC project manager, Jim Macrae. The integration of TransCores streamlined system architecture design, with their proven product suite ,was a significant factor in their selection. We also based our decision on the teams experience and demonstrated success in delivering express lane systems that are operating in other large jurisdictions.
Chris Hall, vice president of West Coast projects at TransCore, commented, We are honored to be recognized by MTC as the firm most qualified and capable of delivering this important project. Our team looks forward to working with MTC to improve mobility in the Bay Area, and again demonstrate our leadership by delivering a solution built on a combination of innovative tolling and transportation management products. We are privileged and grateful to have this opportunity to partner with them again.