Traffic Problems in Michigan and Using Intelligent Transportation Systems to Solve

The aim of this study is to determine the level to which the public is aware about ITS (intelligent transportation systems) technologies and how they perceive the potential advantages and inhibitors of ITS in Michigan.A survey was performed with 200 participants living in Michigan, in urban, suburban and rural areas.Questions covered in the survey included how often and how bad traffic congestion occurred, how familiar travelers were with ITS technologies (adaptive traffic signals, real time monitoring of the traffic) and how much support travelers would provide for ITS initiatives.Results reveal that there is a high degree of traffic congestion awareness, there is low public awareness of ITS technologies.While respondents who were aware of ITS solutions had positive views about deploying them, especially in urban areas, they were less supportive of ITS solutions than they were among those who did not know much about these.Factors including area of residence, commute time and age were perceived to influence ITS along with more positive attitudes to ITS amongst urban dwellers and younger respondents.Analysis of key barriers to ITS implementation reflected high initial costs, challenges with technical integration and users' concerns surrounding privacy.