Would you like to see a public bike share system in the City of Hamilton? The City of Hamilton wants to know what you think.
Go to http://www.smartcommute.ca/hamilton/bikeshare and click on the bike photo to participate in a short online survey. The survey is sponsored by the City of Hamilton Public Works and Smart Commute Hamilton.
Transportation Communications Newsletter Friday, January 29, 2010 – ISSN 1529-1057 Bernie’s Notes Since you receive the TCN each day you’re no doubt familiar with some of my newsletter work. What you might not know is there’s another aspect of transportation communications with which I’m involved. I also do transportation voice-over work. For example, if you’ve ridden on the AirTrain at JFK or Newark airports you’ve probably heard me inside the stations and onboard the trains. Just recently I began providing announcements on the New York City subway system. In addition I’ve been the radio voice for the New Jersey Turnpike and New York State Thruway, the original voice for the E-ZPass customer information phone line in New York and Virginia DOT’s Smart Tag. If your organization needs a voice for anything from a Web or PowerPoint narration to a phone greeting, please contact me. I know transportation and can help make your voice application sound friendly and professional. You can learn about other projects I’ve done and hear samples of my work by visiting my Web site, www.bwcommunications.net. For questions, or more information, please contact me atbernie@bwcommunications.net. AVIATION 1) Judge Allows Flyer Advocate’s Suit to Go Forward Lawsuit claims Delta Air Lines illegally obtained e-mails. Link to AP article: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Judge-allows-flyer-advocates-apf-1243647106.html?x=0&.v=1 2) Boeing Launches 787 Flight-Test Web Site Link to article in The Seattle Times: http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/businesstechnology/2010921991_boeingwebsite29.html PUBLIC INFORMATION / EDUCATION 3) Visualization’s Next Frontier Link to article in Public Roads: http://www.tfhrc.gov/pubrds/10janfeb/02.htm SAFETY / SECURITY 4) Interpol Chief Says Weak Passport Verification World’s Biggest Travel Threat Link to CP article: http://www.google.com/hostednews/canadianpress/article/ALeqM5jamPf2nz2ey4fCJYuMaMBHkxtOOg 5) Driver Phone Bans’ Impact Doubted Link to article in USA Today: http://www.usatoday.com/tech/wireless/2010-01-29-cell-phone_N.htm Link to news release from the Highway Loss Data Institute: http://www.iihs.org/news/rss/pr012910.html 6) Talking Transport Security Trends An interview with Andy Nicholson of ARINC. Link to interview on Airport Technology: 7) Vigilante Journalist Taunts TSA Agents Link to story and video on WDIV-TV: http://www.clickondetroit.com/news/22368244/detail.html TELEMATICS Link to article in Fleet News: http://www.fleetnews.co.uk/news/story/Fleets-switch-on-to-benefits-of-eye-in-the-sky-tracking/51991 TRANSIT 9) Toronto Transit Commission to Enhance Customer Service Numerous communication improvements announced. Link to article in Metro: http://www.metro-magazine.com/News/Story/2010/01/TTC-to-enhance-customer-service.aspx The TTC’s Failure to Communicate Link to editorial in the Toronto Sun: http://www.torontosun.com/comment/editorial/2010/01/28/12655531.html VEHICLES 10) ‘Smart Pedals’ Could Stop Crashes Like Those Behind Recall Link to article in USA Today: http://www.usatoday.com/money/autos/2010-01-29-toyotabrakes29_ST_N.htm 11) Safety of Cars’ Keyless Entry and Ignition Systems Questioned Link to article in the Los Angeles Times: http://articles.latimes.com/2010/jan/24/business/la-fi-carkeys24-2010jan24 News Releases Upcoming Events Making Connections: New Developments & Emerging Opportunities in Transportation Training Partnerships – March 17 – Silver Spring, Maryland http://transportcenter.org/images/uploads/mc%20agenda.pdf Friday Bonus When they say to keep both hands on the wheel, they mean it. Today in Transportation History 1940 **70th anniversary** – Three gasoline-powered trains crashed and exploded approaching the Ajikawaguchi station in Japan, killing over 180 people. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Ajikawaguchi_derail_1940.jpg ====================================================================== The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically Monday through Friday. To subscribe or unsubscribe, please visit: http://groups.google.com/group/tcnl/subscribe If you have any difficulties please contact me at i95berniew@aol.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. © 2010 Bernie Wagenblast www.bwcommunications.net
UK Fleets Switch on to Benefits of Eye-in-the-Sky Tracking
NOTICE OF PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE
IMPROVEMENTS TO HIGHWAY 8, PARK AVENUE TO BOND STREET
MUNICIPAL CLASS ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
FOR full announcement and a map of the area, follow the link: http://www.hamilton.ca/NR/rdonlyres/08FA836A-19C5-4B52-9D78-20D6C5433030/0/aysJan29_2010.pdf
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
THE STUDY
The City of Hamilton has initiated a Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA) process to examine infrastructure improvements to Highway 8 between Park Avenue and Bond Street (see Location Map). This study is building on the recommendations made in the City’s Transportation Master Plan (May 2007), and the Cycling Master Plan (December 1999, update ongoing).
The purpose of this study is to examine roadway improvement alternatives from Hillcrest Avenue to Park Avenue (shown in dark hatching), such as bike lanes and sidewalks, and including intersection improvements at Highway 8 and Brock Road. From Park Avenue to Bond Street (shown in light hatching), the improvements to examine include cyclist facilities and repairs to culvert deficiencies.
LOCATION
THE PROCESS
This project is being planned as a Schedule C project under the Municipal Engineers Association Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (October 2000, as amended in 2007). Project Schedule will be confirmed, and refined if required, once a preferred alternative is identified.
A Public Information Centre (PIC) has been scheduled to present the existing conditions and constraints, infrastructure alternatives, evaluation criteria and next steps. At the completion of this study, an Environmental Study Report, or Project File Report will be prepared and made available for public review.
PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE
The following PIC will be held to provide further information and to receive public input:
DATE: Thursday, February 11, 2010
TIME: 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.
LOCATION: Christ Church Flamboro, 92 Hwy 8, Greensville ON
PUBLIC COMMENTS INVITED
There is an opportunity at any time during this process for interested persons to review outstanding issues and bring concerns to the attention of the Project Managers. If you have any questions or comments or wish to be added to the study mailing list, please contact:
Information will be collected in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. With the exception of personal information, all comments will become part of the public record.
This Notice issued January 29th and February 5th, 2010
Transportation Communications Newsletter Thursday, January 28, 2010 – ISSN 1529-1057 Discuss Federal Legislative Initiatives at IBTTA Legislative Conference – March 22-23, 2010 in Washington, DC Join the International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association on March 22-23, 2010 in Washington, DC and participate in discussions on federal legislative initiatives with leaders in the transportation policy debate. Topics will include transportation authorization, electronic tolling interoperability, vehicle miles traveled (VMT) charging, the proposed Office of Public Benefit, and other important issues affecting tolling and road pricing. Participants will spend Tuesday afternoon visiting their congressional representatives to advance tolling initiatives on Capitol Hill. This meeting is ideal for toll industry professionals interested in US Federal and transportation legislation and regulations affecting the toll industry. Visit www.IBTTA.org for registration, hotel and travel information and to view the preliminary agenda. [More…] AVIATION 1) JetBlue Hopes for Few Blips in Reservation Switch Link to AP article: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/JetBlue-hopes-for-few-blips-apf-4274801989.html?x=0&.v=2 2) Lessons are Learned from Aborted US Airways Flight Link to article in The Charleston Gazette: http://sundaygazettemail.com/News/201001270602 BICYCLES 3) RFID Enables Biking System Link to article in RFIDNews: http://www.rfidnews.org/2010/01/27/rfid-system-rewards-bike-commuters OTHER 4) Intelligent Transportation Systems: US Not Leading the Pack Link to article in Government Technology: http://www.govtech.com/gt/articles/741034 Link to commentary by ITS America President and CEO, Scott Belcher in The Hill: http://thehill.com/blogs/congress-blog/energy-a-environment/78495-its-report-a-wake-up-call ROADWAYS 5) Smart Signs Give False Readings Australian roadway signs may be falsely detecting speeding and following too closely. Link to article in The Gympie Times: http://www.gympietimes.com.au/story/2010/01/29/smart-sign-of-the-times/ SAFETY / SECURITY 6) US Homeland Security Nuclear Detection Office Turns to Geospatial Routing Link to article in Government Computer News: http://gcn.com/articles/2010/01/27/homeland-security-domestic-nuclear-detection-office.aspx 7) Microsoft CEO Forecasts Cloudy Future for Public Safety Link to article in Government Computer News: http://gcn.com/articles/2010/01/28/steve-ballmer-keynote-at-microsoft-public-safety-symposium.aspx News Releases 3) New 511 Service to Assist Commuters and Motorists in California’s Inland Empire Job Postings - Transportation Safety Analyst – Volpe National Transportation Systems Center – Cambridge, Massachusetts Upcoming Events Oceanology International – March 9-11 – London http://www.oceanologyinternational.com/ Today in Transportation History 1820 **190th anniversary** A Russian expedition, led by Fabian Gottlieb von Bellingshausen, reached Antarctica. The expedition is credited by some as being the first to discover the continent. http://www.south-pole.com/p0000073.htm ====================================================================== The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically Monday through Friday. To subscribe or unsubscribe, please visit: http://groups.google.com/group/tcnl/subscribe If you have any difficulties please contact me at i95berniew@aol.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. © 2010 Bernie Wagenblast www.bwcommunications.net
Transportation Communications Newsletter Wednesday, January 27, 2010 – ISSN 1529-1057 BICYCLES 1) Designing Bicycle Cities Planning clearly-marked urban biking systems can help us educate car drivers and decrease cycling accidents. Link to article in Good: http://www.good.is/post/designing-bicycle-cities/ OTHER 2) Interview with ITS Network Germany Link to interview from ERTICO – ITS Europe: http://www.ertico.com/en/news/ertico_newsroom/its_network_germany_interview.htm 3) ERTICO – ITS Europe Talks to Dr. Young-Jun Moon, IPC Chair of the ITS World Congress Organizing Committee Link to interview from ERTICO – ITS Europe: http://www.ertico.com/en/news/ertico_newsroom/ertico_-_its_europe_talks_to_dr_young-jun_moon.htm 4) Report on Intelligent Transportation Systems from The Information Technology & Innovation Foundation Link to report: http://gigaom.files.wordpress.com/2010/01/its2010report.pdf RAILROADS 5) Web Site Offers Info — and Advocacy — on Proposed High-Speed Rail Line from Twin Cities to Chicago Link to article on MinnPost: Link to site: http://www.mnhighspeedrail.com/ ROADWAYS 6) EU Body Gives Thumbs Up to ‘Green’ Road Charging Link to article on EurActiv: http://www.euractiv.com/en/transport/eu-body-gives-thumbs-green-road-charging/article-189224 TRANSIT 7) New York MTA’s Electronic Security Plan Late, Lacks Funds Link to Reuters article: http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSN2612302120100126 Link to article in The Virginian-Pilot: http://hamptonroads.com/2010/01/outgoing-hrt-chief-speaks-out-facebook VEHICLES 9) Four States, DC Not Part of National Vehicle History Database Link to article in The Clarion-Ledger: News Releases 1) BART Launches API to Spur Innovation in Transit App Development 3) Galileo – The Next Big Thing – Today and Tomorrow Says Frost & Sullivan 4) Iraqis Controlling Air Traffic Alongside US Counterparts Upcoming Events Asia Pacific Rail 2010 – March 8-11 – Bangkok http://www.terrapinn.com/2010/asiarail/ Today in Transportation History 1910 **100th anniversary** – The Hague Convention of 1907, which focused on naval warfare, went into effect. http://avalon.law.yale.edu/subject_menus/lawwar.asp ====================================================================== The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically Monday through Friday. To subscribe or unsubscribe, please visit: http://groups.google.com/group/tcnl/subscribe If you have any difficulties please contact me at i95berniew@aol.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. © 2010 Bernie Wagenblast www.bwcommunications.net
Outgoing Hampton Roads Transit Chief Speaks Out on Facebook
Transportation Communications Newsletter Tuesday, January 26, 2010 – ISSN 1529-1057 Discuss Federal Legislative Initiatives at IBTTA Legislative Conference – March 22-23, 2010 in Washington, DC Join the International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association on March 22-23, 2010 in Washington, DC and participate in discussions on federal legislative initiatives with leaders in the transportation policy debate. Topics will include transportation authorization, electronic tolling interoperability, vehicle miles traveled (VMT) charging, the proposed Office of Public Benefit, and other important issues affecting tolling and road pricing. Participants will spend Tuesday afternoon visiting their congressional representatives to advance tolling initiatives on Capitol Hill. This meeting is ideal for toll industry professionals interested in US Federal and transportation legislation and regulations affecting the toll industry. Visit www.IBTTA.org for registration, hotel and travel information and to view the preliminary agenda. [More…] AVIATION 1) Deciphering the German Airport Hack Link to article in ContactlessNews: http://www.contactlessnews.com/2010/01/25/deciphering-the-german-airport-hack CARTOGRAPHY 2) Navteq, the Maps the Auto Industry Uses Link to article on Bright Side of News: http://www.brightsideofnews.com/news/2010/1/25/navteq2c-the-maps-the-auto-industry-uses.aspx ELECTRONIC TOLLING 3) Ohio Turnpike Commission Reverses Itself on Higher Tolls for Bicycles or Luggage on Roof Link to article in The Plain Dealer: http://blog.cleveland.com/metro/2010/01/ohio_turnpike_commission_rever.html GPS / NAVIGATION 4) Navigation Programming Standard Link to article in The Engineer: http://www.theengineer.co.uk/news/navigation-programming-standard/1000716.article MARITIME 5) Port of Los Angeles Fights Crime with Mobile Video Link to article in CIO: http://www.cio.com/article/522914/Port_of_Los_Angeles_Fights_Crime_With_Mobile_Video ROADWAYS 6) US Government Studies Effect of Digital Billboards on Drivers Link to story on KUSA-TV: http://www.9news.com/seenon9news/article.aspx?storyid=131467&catid=509 SAFETY / SECURITY 7) US DOT Bars Commercial Drivers from Texting at Wheel Link to AP article: http://abcnews.go.com/Business/wireStory?id=9662151 Link to news release from US DOT: http://www.dot.gov/affairs/2010/dot1410.htm Link to article in the Los Angeles Times: http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-smallbiz-security26-2010jan26,0,636018.story 9) Pennsylvania County Publishes Emergency Call Information Online Link to article in Government Technology: http://www.govtech.com/gt/articles/740523?elq=f5509e76b98f45b9a914f8a0f6d0bbaa TRANSIT 10) Smart Card Firms Team to Establish Open Standard Link to article in EE Times: http://www.eetimes.com/news/latest/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=222500054 11) Toronto Transit Commission Riders Ask Where Route Maps Went Link to article in the Toronto Star: http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/fixer/article/755855–fixer-ttc-riders-ask-where-route-maps-went 12) New Bus Times Signs Help UK Shoppers Link to article in The Evening Telegraph: http://www.peterboroughtoday.co.uk/news/Queensgate-New-bus-times-signs.6014674.jp TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT 13) Long Island Rail Road Riders Get Real-Time Train Arrival Information by Text Link to article in the Daily News: 14) Is the 511 National Traffic Phone Number Worth $1.2 Billion? Link to podcast from Directions Magazine: http://www.directionsmag.com/article.php?article_id=3390 WEATHER 15) Google to Bring NOAA Data to New Heights Link to article in Government Computer News: http://gcn.com/articles/2010/01/26/noaa-google-coop-012610.aspx News Releases 1) Streetcar App Now Available from App Store – Allows Users to Locate, Book and Open Cars Upcoming Events 21st International Women in Aviation Conference – February 25-27 – Lake Buena Vista, Florida http://www.wai.org/10conference/index.cfm Today in Transportation History 1500 **510th anniversary** – Spanish explorer Vicente Yáñez Pinzón reached Brazil’s northeastern coast. http://www.emayzine.com/lectures/HISTOR~6.htm ====================================================================== The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically Monday through Friday. To subscribe or unsubscribe, please visit: http://groups.google.com/group/tcnl/subscribe If you have any difficulties please contact me at i95berniew@aol.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. © 2010 Bernie Wagenblast www.bwcommunications.net
Airport Security is a Tech-Firm Gold Rush
Transportation Communications Newsletter Monday, January 25, 2010 – ISSN 1529-1057 Preliminary Program Available for ITS America’s 20th Annual Meeting & Exposition The preliminary program for ITS America’s 20th Annual Meeting & Exposition, May 3-5, 2010, Houston, Texas is available online. ITS America’s 20th Annual Meeting & Exposition will provide transportation professionals and policymakers with the necessary tools and strategies they need to create communities that are safer, cleaner, more livable and less congested. Visit www.itsa.org/amprogram.html to learn more about the sessions, technical tours, technology demonstrations, exhibition, ancillary meetings, and the Texas Senate Committee on Transportation and Homeland Security hearing. Early registration ends January 31 and discounts are available for ITS America members, public agency staff, and first-time attendees. AVIATION 1) Atlantic City’s High-Tech Airport Taking Off Link to article in The Philadelphia Inquirer: http://www.philly.com/philly/business/82535372.html 2) New UK Air Traffic Control Center Opens Link to BBC News story: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/8477906.stm CAMERAS 3) Average Speed Cameras Could be Used on All UK Motorways Link to article in the Telegraph: ELECTRONIC TOLLING 4) Maine Turnpike Authority Dismisses All-Electronic Tolls Link to article in the Portsmouth Herald: http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20100123-NEWS-1230314 5) South Jersey Transportation Authority May Scrap Plans for Cashless Toll Plazas on Atlantic City Expressway Link to article in The Press of Atlantic City: http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/news/breaking/article_98d3851e-0843-11df-9a21-001cc4c002e0.html GPS / NAVIGATION 6) US Air Force Chief of Staff Warns Against Dependence on GPS Link to article in the Air Force Times: http://www.airforcetimes.com/news/2010/01/airforce_schwartz_012310/ 7) New Garmin Navigation Device Airs Digital TV, Radio Device, which will only be available in Europe, has feature to prevent TV use while driving. Link to article in the Kansas City Business Journal: http://www.bizjournals.com/kansascity/stories/2010/01/18/daily38.html SAFETY / SECURITY Link to Canwest News Service article: 9) US-Bound Fliers From 35 Countries Will be Required to Register Online Link to article in USA Today: http://www.usatoday.com/travel/flights/2010-01-24-register_N.htm 10) States Go After Texting Drivers Link to article in USA Today: http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2010-01-24-texting_N.htm 11) Missouri Considers Letting Emergency Medical Technicians Report Dangerous Drivers Link to article in The Kansas City Star: http://www.kansascity.com/news/politics/story/1704958.html TELEMATICS 12) Telematics to Help Provide Real-Time Road Information in Taiwan Link to article in The China Post: http://www.chinapost.com.tw/taiwan/national/national-news/2010/01/23/241952/Telematics-to.htm 13) It’s Time for Telematics Link to article in Heavy Duty Trucking: http://www.truckinginfo.com/news/news-detail.asp?news_id=69145 TRANSIT 14) Bob Noorda, Who Changed Look of the New York Subways, Dies at 82 Link to obituary in The New York Times: http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/24/arts/design/24noorda.html 15) Clever Commute Helps Riders Track Trains Leaving Grand Central Terminal Link to article in The Advocate: TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT 16) More Indiana Highway Travel Time Signs Planned Link to AP article: http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-ap-in-timesigns,0,5410752.story 17) New ITS System to Help Assuage Jacksonville, North Carolina Area Traffic Headaches Link to article in The Daily News: http://www.jdnews.com/news/text-72135-justify-align.html 18) Bluetooth Travel Time Technology Evaluation Using the BlueTOAD Link to report from KMJ Consulting: http://kmjinc.com/file/BlueTOAD%20final%20report%204%20Jan%202010.pdf VEHICLES 19) LTE Connected Car Link to video on CNET TV: http://cnettv.cnet.com/lte-connected-car/9742-1_53-50082302.html 20) Dear Silicon Valley: Stay Out of My Car Link to article in Computerworld: http://news.idg.no/cw/art.cfm?id=66962B76-1A64-67EA-E41A690C21F930E7 News Releases 1) OmniAir EPS Committee Completes EPSNIS Draft – Prepares for NYSBA 5.9 GHz DSRC Test 2) Telvent to Install Tunnel Management System in Brazil 3) AutoPark 1.0 Introduced for iPhone – Say Goodbye to Parking Tickets 4) $8.7 Million Awarded for Traffic Management Improvements to I-15 in San Diego Area 5) Kovsky & Miller Research Study Provides Useful Insights Into Traffic Reporting in Newscasts Job Postings - Supervisory, IT Specialist – Volpe National Transportation Operations Center – Cambridge, Massachusetts (open period extended until Feb. 2) http://jobview.usajobs.gov/getjob.aspx?jobid=85639854 Upcoming Events MetroRail 2010 Australia – February 25 – Sydney http://www.terrapinn.com/2010/metro/ Today in Transportation History 1890 **120th anniversary** – Nellie Bly completed a 72-day round-the-world journey. http://www.library.csi.cuny.edu/dept/history/lavender/386/nellie.html ====================================================================== The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically Monday through Friday. To subscribe or unsubscribe, please visit: http://groups.google.com/group/tcnl/subscribe If you have any difficulties please contact me at i95berniew@aol.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. © 2010 Bernie Wagenblast www.bwcommunications.net
Technology Will Allow Security Officials to Monitor Aircraft Movements in Area of Winter Olympics
Transportation Communications Newsletter Friday, January 22, 2010 – ISSN 1529-1057 Bernie’s Notes In yesterday’s edition I mentioned there are several ways you can support the TCN. In addition to direct donations, another way is through a sponsorship. Each weekday the TCN goes out to over 7,000 readers. Since I never want the TCN to be cluttered with ads, there’s only one sponsorship per issue. That also makes sure your message stands out. The cost is surprisingly affordable at only $100 per ad. For more information, or to check available dates, please e-mail me at the address below. You can join sponsors such as IBTTA, ITS America, GEWI and INRIX in helping to support the TCN. For those interested in direct donations, please see information at the bottom of today’s edition. Thank you for all your support! AVIATION 1) Gogo Gets $176 Million for In-Flight Wi-Fi Link to article in The New York Times: http://dealbook.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/01/22/gogo-lands-176-million-as-in-flight-wi-fi-takes-off/ CAMERAS 2) London, Ontario Female Bus Drivers Demand Onboard Security Cameras Link to article in the London Free Press: http://www.lfpress.com/news/london/2010/01/18/12517286.html 3) London to Get UK’s First Urban Average Speed Camera System Link to article in Traffic Technology International: http://www.traffictechnologytoday.com/news.php?NewsID=18960 ELECTRONIC TOLLING 4) Rival Australian Electronic Toll Tag Operators Accused of Dirty Tactics to Lure Drivers Link to article in The Courier-Mail: http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/story/0,23739,26622874-3102,00.html RAILROADS 5) NTSB Blames Engineer for 2008 Metrolink Crash, Urges Railroads to Install Cameras to Monitor Train Crews Link to article in the Los Angeles Times: http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-metrolink22-2010jan22,0,5862623.story Link to further information from the National Transportation Safety Board: http://www.ntsb.gov/events/boardmeeting.htm#upcoming 6) China Launches ID-Based Rail Ticket System Link to IANS article: http://www.samachaar.in/Business_and_Economy/China_launches_IDbased_rail_ticket_system_98953/ 7) Amtrak Replies on Policy Concerning Identification of People Hit by Trains Link to blog in The Baltimore Sun: http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/news/traffic/2010/01/amtrak_replies_on_victim_ident.html Link to newsletter: http://ec.europa.eu/transport/rail/interoperability/ertms/doc/016_signal_2010_01_en.pdf SPACE 9) Astronaut Sends One Small Tweet for Man, One Giant Leap for Twitter Link to article in USA Today: Link to Twitter feed: http://twitter.com/astro_tj TRANSIT 10) Tweet Dreams! Photo of Toronto Transit Commission Ticket Booth Goes Viral Link to article in the Toronto Star: http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/ttc/article/754297–tweet-dreams-photo-of-ttc-booth-goes-viral 11) Low-Tech Used to Inform Passengers of Train Departures in Silicon Valley Link to article in The New York Times: http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/22/us/22sfmetro.html TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT 12) Virginia DOT Traffic Operations Center Helps Staunton-Area Residents During Winter Weather Link to story and video on WHSV-TV: http://www.whsv.com/news/headlines/82392812.html VEHICLES 13) Volvo Goes Futuristic with a System That Can Detect Pedestrians Link to article from the New York Times News Service: 14) GM Spreads Car Radio DVR Link to blog in Consumer Reports: http://blogs.consumerreports.org/cars/2010/01/gm-pause-play-car-radio-dvr.html News Releases 1) US DOT Seeks Public Comments on Research and Technology Planning 2) US Drivers Not the Speed Demons You May Think Upcoming Events Talking Operations Webcast: International Experience with Road Pricing: Lessons From an International Scan – February 3 http://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/resources/news/news_detail.asp?ID=605 Friday Bonus I hope she isn’t sued for copyright infringement. http://www.chicagonow.com/blogs/cta-tattler/2010/01/devotion-to-cta-is-tattooed-on-her-foot.html Today in Transportation History 1970 **40th anniversary** – The first commercial flight of the Boeing 747 was made by Pan Am between New York and London. http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,878184,00.html Contributions for the TCN Contributions to the TCN are greatly appreciated. You can mail a contribution to me at: Bernie Wagenblast 1 Aberdeen Ct. Cranford, NJ 07016-2911 You may also contribute through PayPal. Just go to: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=10069680 ====================================================================== The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically Monday through Friday. To subscribe or unsubscribe, please visit: http://groups.google.com/group/tcnl/subscribe If you have any difficulties please contact me at i95berniew@aol.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. © 2010 Bernie Wagenblast www.bwcommunications.net
January Issue of Signal Newsletter of the European Rail Traffic Management System
Transportation for Liveable Communities Hamilton
PO Box 19, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton ON L8S 1C0
905-525-9140 ext. 26026
Ms. Diana Morreale,
Ms. Christine Lee-Morrison
Public Works Dept.
City of Hamilton
January 22, 2010
RE: Comments on the Downtown Dundas Transportation Master Plan, Class EA report
Dear Ms Morreale and Ms Lee-Morrison,
I am writing on behalf of Transportation for Liveable Communities (TLC) to comment about the class EA for the Downtown Dundas Transportation Master Plan (DDTMP).
TLC members have followed closely the long process of the Downtown Dundas Transportation Master Plan, attended the public open houses and commented on the process over the past two years.
We found it extremely frustrating that the recommendations included in the DDTMP are not in keeping with the Vision 2020, GRIDS and Hamilton TMP principles that supposedly guide the process.”expand transportation options that encourage travel by foot, bike, and transit and enhance efficient inter-regional transportation connections” Rather, we see changes that would increase the volume and speed of automobile travel in Dundas are prioritized over the stated goal of “[a] better choice of integrated travel modes, emphasizing active transportation and public transit.” (Dec. 9, 2009 www.hamilton.ca/CityDepartments/PublicWorks/CapitalPlanning/StrategicPlanning/StrategicEnvironmentalPlanningProjects/Downtown+Dundas+TMP.htm)
TLC feels that the plan, with its current emphasis, places pedestrians, cyclists, and the small town character of Dundas, in jeopardy.
Importantly, the DDTMP bluntly violates the 2007 city wide Transportation Master Plan’s calls for identifying policies that reduce automobile trips, promote walking and cycling, and encourage use of public transit and ride sharing.
Our concern is based on the fact that all the outlined short term action plans in the DDTMP include road changes like widening that promote increased automobile trips and speed and that not one of the short term projects address the immediate needs of pedestrian, cycling and transit improvements. Indeed, the alternative transportation components that are included in the DDTMP are presented as vague suggestions for future studies, and, at best, minor tweaking and subtle dismissal of residents’ expressed desires and concerns.
We focus here on three key issues.
First, the DDTMP fails to develop a transportation vision which recognizes and enhances Dundas’ strengths, such as natural features and a compact and walkable heritage core. By prioritizing automobile “improvements” like road widening and adding vehicle lanes, not only are pedestrians and cyclists further endangered, the Valley Town risks losing its unique identity which sets it apart from surrounding suburban sprawl. The plan should closely examine the origins and destinations of current automobile, pedestrian, bike and bus trips, and then delineate the desired modal split for the area following city guidelines (e.g. Vision 2020 and the citywide TMP). Where Dundas deserves a clear and distinctive vision for achieving such goals, the plan takes a passive, reactive attitude, against city policy, by obsessively focusing on, assuming, and providing for, increased automobile traffic.
Second, we are disappointed that the DDTMP further delays the promise of the visionary “Urban Design Study for Hatt Street in Dundas”. The 2005 study, which was supposed to guide future development of the Hatt St area, highlighted the need for strengthening pedestrian connectivity and accessibility. Unfortunately, the DDTMP fails to accommodate that practical need and leaves it to a still future study. Moreover, the DDTMP dismissed resident calls for improved pedestrian crossing along the Hatt St section between Ogilvie St and Market St. This ~1500 m stretch of six city blocks currently provides no protected pedestrian crossings. The DDTMP notes that the stretch does not “warrant” a protected pedestrian crossing, but we find this conclusion misleading. First, the DDTMP is supposed to provide for increased pedestrian traffic into the downtown core rather than observe current traffic and then conclude that it does not warrant safe pedestrian crossing. Second, a perceptive look at the character of the Hatt St area, including the 600 new housing units at the newly developed Creekside area and the newly developed commercial area just west of the new development, would indicate that there is a substantial opportunity for diverting automobile trips by creating opportunities to support an increase in pedestrian traffic in this area.
Finally, the DDTMP does not provide the necessary global vision for pedestrian traffic issues on King St. Currently, King St is optimized for serving as a highway even though it is the commercial and social heart of the Valley town. The DDTMP must consider it and provide explicit immediate plans for improving safe pedestrian movements along and between the north and south side of King St. Although two new pedestrian traffic lights were installed recently at Ogilvie St and Foundry St, they were rendered ineffective by programming the signal response times to prioritize automobiles movement over the need of pedestrians. Compare this ill advised approach to the visionary leadership of neighbouring councillor Brian McHattie and responsive city public works dept staff, who optimized the pedestrian operated traffic light at Cootes Drive near McMaster. While the light is synchronized with the nearby light at Main St and is slow to respond to pedestrian needs during rush hours, it provides almost instantaneous green pedestrian light on demand at off peak hours. Hence pedestrian can cross the street always safely and quickly much of the time. This compromise approach, which is also used widely in other Canadian cities, should be adopted in downtown Dundas as well.
There are many more specifics we could include, but suffice to say we think that the DDTMP requires substantial revision and intend to take immediate further actions to ensure that the Valley town receives the transportation master plan it deserves.
Sincerely yours,
Reuven Dukas
For TLC
Transportation Communications Newsletter Thursday, January 21, 2010 – ISSN 1529-1057 Bernie’s Notes In November I posted a note asking you to consider supporting the TCN. Many of you responded and I’m very appreciative. I put the appeal aside in December because of the holidays but now that we’re into the new year, and my freelance work is my primary source of income, I thought I’d again seek your support. There are a number of different ways you can support the TCN. One is by making a contribution. You may mail a check or money order or you may make a contribution through PayPal. Details are listed below. In the days ahead I’ll include other ways you can support the TCN. One is just letting others know about the TCN so they can subscribe. Thank you again for your encouragement. It’s been a fun ten and a half years and I look forward to much more. I only expect to make an appeal for contributions twice a year, in January and June. CAMERAS 1) Arizona Audit: ‘Only $37 Million’ Raised from Photo Enforcement Link to article in The Arizona Republic: http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/local/articles/2010/01/21/20100121photoenforcement0121.html ELECTRONIC TOLLING 2) E-ZPass Looks to Next Generation Link to article in the Times Union: http://www.timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=891281 GPS / NAVIGATION 3) Nokia Takes on Google with Free Navigation App Link to column on CNET News: http://news.cnet.com/8301-30686_3-10438524-266.html Link to news release from Nokia: http://www.nokia.com/press/press-releases/showpressrelease?newsid=1375569 OTHER 4) Lawsuit Claims Arkansas DMV Database Used for Marketing, Private Data Accessed Link to AP article: http://www.arkansasbusiness.com/article.aspx?aID=119724.54928.131865 5) Backing Up Twitter and Facebook Posts Challenges Governments Link to article in Government Technology: http://www.govtech.com/gt/articles/738859 PARKING 6) Apple Working on Parking App for Mobile Devices Link to blog in The Baltimore Sun: http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/news/technology/2010/01/apple_iphone_parking_applicati.html 7) Guidebook for Evaluating Airport Parking Strategies and Supporting Technologies Link to report from the Transportation Research Board: http://www.trb.org/Main/Blurbs/Guidebook_for_Evaluating_Airport_Parking_Strategie_162823.aspx ROADWAYS Link to AFP article: SAFETY / SECURITY 9) US First Responder Communications Still a Mess Link to blog in Federal Computer Week: http://fcw.com/blogs/quick-study/2010/01/jamie-barnett-public-safety-communications.aspx 10) Winter Edition of Safe Highway Matters Online Link to publication: http://www.SafeHighways.org/SafeHighwayMatters.Winter2010.pdf TRANSIT 11) RFID Research to Make Transit Workers Safer Link to article in Metro: http://www.metro-magazine.com/News/Story/2010/01/RFID-research-to-make-transit-workers-safer.aspx TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT 12) ITS Corrupted: Intelligent Racketeering Slowly Unravels Over Traveler Data Monopoly Link to commentary in TOLLROADnews: http://www.tollroadsnews.com/node/4546 News Releases 1) 612th Air Operations Center Manages, Improves Air Traffic Flow Into Haiti 3) Nissan Australia to Offer SUNA Traffic Channel in Vehicles 4) FAA Sends Temporary Air Traffic Control Tower to Haiti Upcoming Events Urban Transport World Australia 2010 – February 22-25 – Sydney http://www.terrapinn.com/2010/utw/ Today in Transportation History 1960 **50th anniversary** – A Rhesus monkey, Miss Sam, was launched into space. Contributions for the TCN Contributions to the TCN are greatly appreciated. You can mail a contribution to me at: Bernie Wagenblast 1 Aberdeen Ct. Cranford, NJ 07016-2911 You may also contribute through PayPal. Just go to: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=10069680 Thank you! ====================================================================== The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically Monday through Friday. To subscribe or unsubscribe, please visit: http://groups.google.com/group/tcnl/subscribe If you have any difficulties please contact me at i95berniew@aol.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. © 2010 Bernie Wagenblast www.bwcommunications.net
Moose Blood Used as Road Sign in Norway
