TransportGooru

(Source: Washington Post)

Everyone, say hello to “A Whale”, the  world’s largest oil-skimming vessel.  It is the newest addition to the fleet of vessels working in the oil spill cleanup in the Gulf of Mexico.

The Taiwanese-flagged former tanker named the “A Whale” is the length of 3 1/2 football fields and stands 10 stories high. It just emerged from an extensive retrofitting to prepare it specifically for the Gulf, where officials hope it will be able to suck up as much as 21 million gallons of oil-fouled water per day.

“It is absolutely gigantic. It’s unbelievable,” said Louisiana State University environmental sciences professor Ed Overton, who saw the ship last week in Norfolk, Va.

The ship looks like a typical tanker, but it takes in contaminated water through 12 vents on either side of the bow. The oil is then supposed to be separated from the water and transferred to another vessel. The water is channeled back into the sea.

Click here to read more about this floating giant on the high seas.

Related articles by Zemanta

• Giant Oil Skimming Vessel Arrives in Gulf (shoppingblog.com)
• BP spill nears record as Gulf’s biggest (ctv.ca)
• BP spill nears a somber record as Gulf’s biggest (sfgate.com)
• Day 68: Why isn’t the A-Whale in the Gulf yet? (hotair.com)
• World’s Largest Oil Skimmer Heads to Gulf (time.com)
• BP Oil Spill Nears Record As Largest In Gulf History (huffingtonpost.com)

Wednesday, June 30, 2010 – ISSN 1529-1057

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AVIATION

1) Off-Shore Wind Farms Bring Concerns Over Radar Systems

Link to article in The Virginian-Pilot:

http://hamptonroads.com/2010/06/offshore-wind-farms-bring-concerns-over-radar-systems

2) The Future of In-Flight Entertainment in an iPad Age

Link to CNET News blog:

http://news.cnet.com/8301-13577_3-20009235-36.html

GPS / NAVIGATION

3) In Major Switch, US Embraces Foreign Navigation Systems

Link to article on Nextgov:

http://gove-media.com/portal/wts/ccmcfOcCoCaqi–VaUoFDLiN67ASh

OTHER

4) Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood is Charging Ahead in His Political Career

Blog gets over 40,000 hits per week, second only to president in federal government.

Link to article in The Washington Post:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/06/29/AR2010062905327.html

5) Pittsburgh Emerging as a Hub for Future Transportation Technology

Link to article in Pop City:

http://www.popcitymedia.com/innovationnews/PSII063010.aspx

PUBLIC INFORMATION / EDUCATION

6) European Commission Launches Information Campaign to Make Sure Passengers Know Their Rights

Link to article on Euractiv:

http://www.euractiv.com/en/food/commission-wants-passangers-know-their-rights-news-495755

SAFETY / SECURITY

7) Ex-employees Raise Concerns in Film About Air Safety Agencies

Link to article in The Washington Post:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/06/29/AR2010062904995.html

TELEMATICS

8) Numerex: Telematics is ‘an Emerging and Vital Trend in the Insurance Market’

Link to article in Telematics Update:

http://bit.ly/9NYGnB

TRANSIT

9) Mayor Backs Wi-Fi on London Tube Network

Link to BBC News story:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/london/10449817.stm

10) E-mail Address Set-Up by Maryland Transit Administration for Public Comments Doesn’t Work

Link to column in The Baltimore Sun:

http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/news/traffic/2010/06/mta_email_account_return_to_se.html

11) Amtrak Regrets Misleading MARC Passengers

Riders told ‘track conditions’ reason train missed station stop, not operator error.

Link to column in The Baltimore Sun:

http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/news/traffic/2010/06/amtrak_regrets_misleading_marc.html

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

12) No Timetable for Chicago Transit Authority Train Tracker

Link to article in Chicago Now:

http://www.chicagonow.com/blogs/going-public/2010/06/post.html

13) A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

Virtual technology and design bolsters traffic signal systems education.

Link to further information from the University of Idaho:

http://www.uidaho.edu/newsevents/features/students/1000words

VEHICLES

14) New Hampshire Governor Backs Release of Info on State-Owned Car Accidents

Link to article in the Portsmouth Herald:

http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20100630-NEWS-6300388

15) Proposal for Digital License Plates Faces a Major Hurdle: the Governor

Link to article in the Los Angeles Times:

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2010/06/california-governor-schwarzenegger-is-against-digital-license-plates-that-flash-ads.html

News Releases

1) Colorado DOT Extends SpeedInfo Solar-Powered, Doppler Sensor Coverage from Denver to Colorado Springs, Building on Success of Earlier Deployment

2) Sensys Networks Launches Innovations in Transportation Research Center

3) Beat the Traffic 3D Goes On-Air with ESRI Web Mapping Technology

4) New Web Page Features Benefits of DC Metro’s Transit-Oriented Development Projects

5) FCC Chairman Names Douglas Sicker as Chief Technologist

6) FCC Launches Data Innovation Initiative

Upcoming Events

2010 Highway Capacity Manual Workshop – August 12 – Orlando, Florida

http://trc.ce.ufl.edu/news_and_events/hcm_2010_Workshop.php

Today in Transportation History

1945 **65^th anniversary** The USS Indianapolis was sunk by a Japanese submarine with the loss of 880 sailors. The sinking was the largest death toll from a single event in US Navy history.

http://www.ussindianapolis.us/

======================================================================

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 bernie@bwcommunications.net.

TCN archives: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/transport-communications

Questions, comments about the TCN?  Please write the editor, Bernie Wagenblast atbernie@bwcommunications.net.

© 2010 Bernie Wagenblast  www.bwcommunications.net

Tuesday, June 29, 2010 – ISSN 1529-1057

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IBTTA 78th Annual Meeting & Exhibition — Register Today! Early Bird Discount Ends August 22, 2010

Come to San Diego, September 12-15, 2010, for IBTTA’s 78th Annual Meeting & Exhibition, the year’s most highly-anticipated learning and networking event — attracting more than 700 toll industry experts and decision makers from across the globe. Under the theme, Sustainable Transportation, the technical program offers tracks focused on innovation, policy, the economy, and the California tolling experience. Hosted by the California Toll Operators Committee (CTOC), this event features interactive seminars, influential speakers, technical tours and special events, informative exhibits and more! Customized sponsorship and exhibitor packages are available. Visit IBTTA’s website for details.

AVIATION

1) New Indian Air Traffic Flow System to Keep Flyers Informed

Link to article in The Times of India:

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/New-air-traffic-flow-system-to-keep-flyers-informed/articleshow/6103774.cms

2) Better Communication Needed for Airport Safety

Link to column and video in the Richmond Times-Dispatch:

http://www2.timesdispatch.com/news/2010/jun/29/mike29-ar-56579/

CARTOGRAPHY

3) MapQuest Remaps Itself

Link to CNET News article:

http://news.cnet.com/8301-1023_3-20009121-93.html

GPS / NAVIGATION

4) Will Google Maps Win the Turn-by-Turn Nav War in Cars?

Link to article in Popular Mechanics:

http://www.popularmechanics.com/cars/news/industry/google-maps-turn-by-turn-nav-in-cars

5) TelematicsPRO and MetroNAV

Link to story from ERTICO – ITS Europe:

http://www.ertico.com/en/news/ertico_newsroom/telematicspro_and_metronav.htm

MARITIME

6) Washington Governor Says She Didn’t Watch TV News Series on Ferry System

Link to article in The Seattle Times:

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/politicsnorthwest/2012231131_king_5_gregoire_doesnt_have_ti.html

OTHER

7) Short Summary of Conference on Intelligent Transport in Europe – Putting the Commission’s Plan into Action

Link to summary from ERTICO – ITS Europe:

http://tools.emailgarage.com/Pub/Asset.ashx?Id=feee1910-7d74-4295-8ec2-a3cc34ce92e7&MessageId=306799262

PARKING

8) DC Tests New Parking Technology to Help Drivers Find Space, Pay More Easily

Link to article in The Washington Post:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/06/28/AR2010062804850.html

ROADWAYS

9) Traffic Study Sees Shades of Gray in Yellow Lights

Link to article in The Washington Post:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/06/28/AR2010062803806.html

TRANSIT

10) TriMet Changing Video-Recording Policy After Complaints About Blogging Driver

Link to article in The Oregonian:

http://blog.oregonlive.com/commuting/2010/06/trimet_changing_video-recordin.html

11) UC Berkeley Student’s iPhone App Updates Users on Public Transit Delays

Link to article in The Daily Californian:

http://www.dailycal.org/article/109735/student_s_iphone_app_updates_users_on_public_trans

12) MARC Officials and Riders Can Learn from Stalled Train Debacle

Getting and distributing accurate information among the suggestions.

Link to column in The Baltimore Sun:

http://articles.baltimoresun.com/2010-06-28/features/bs-md-dresser-getting-there0628-20100628_1_marc-penn-line-marc-officials-acela-train

13) Effective Use of Citizen Advisory Committees for Transit Planning Operation

Link to report from the Transportation Research Board:

http://www.trb.org/Main/Blurbs/Effective_Use_of_Citizen_Advisory_Committees_for_T_163653.aspx

VEHICLES

14) Six Best Driving Apps for iPhone, Android

Link to article from Consumer Reports:

http://www.thestreet.com/story/10794844/1/6-best-driving-apps-for-iphone-android.html

15) Racing Under a Watchful Eye That’s Thousands of Miles Away

Link to article in The New York Times:

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/06/27/automobiles/27TELEMETRY.html

News Releases

1) MBTA to Allow Parking Payments by Phone and Online

2) FAA Awards Final Set of Major NextGen Engineering Contracts

3) Technology Convergence to Drive GPS Market

4) 40% of Drivers Want Vehicles Internet Wired, but Restricted

Upcoming Events

2010 Precision Indoor Personnel Location and Tracking for Emergency Responders 5^th Annual International Technology Workshop – August 2-3 – Worcester, Massachusetts

http://www.wpi.edu/academics/ece/ppl/2010workshop.html

Today in Transportation History

1995 **15^th anniversary** The first docking of the US Space Shuttle and the Russian space station, Mir, took place.

http://science.ksc.nasa.gov/shuttle/missions/sts-71/mission-sts-71.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 bernie@bwcommunications.net.

TCN archives: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/transport-communications

Questions, comments about the TCN?  Please write the editor, Bernie Wagenblast atbernie@bwcommunications.net.

© 2010 Bernie Wagenblast  www.bwcommunications.net

Monday, June 28, 2010 – ISSN 1529-1057

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AVIATION

1) Aircell Simplifies In-Flight Internet with Subscriptions

Link to article in USA Today:

http://www.usatoday.com/travel/flights/2010-06-28-airlinewifi28_ST_N.htm

2) goHow Airport Delivers Real-Time Personalized Travel and Airport Information

Link to article in Airport Business:

http://www.airportbusiness.com/print/Airport-Business-Magazine/e-Media–Web-based-customer-service-and-marketing-solutions/1$37312

OTHER

3) 200 Indian Cities Require ITS: Expert

Link to article in The Times of India:

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/City/Pune/200-cities-require-ITS-Expert/articleshow/6093047.cms

4) Obama Orders More Spectrum to be Freed for Broadband Development

Link to article in Government Computer News:

http://gcn.com/articles/2010/06/28/president-spectrum-freed-up-order.aspx

5) Cisco Joins Portuguese ‘Smart City’ Project

Link to article in the Financial Times:

http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/1262cc68-8289-11df-85ba-00144feabdc0.html

6) Do Apps for Democracy and Other Contests Create Sustainable Applications?

Link to article in Government Technology:

http://www.govtech.com/gt/articles/765522

7) June Issue of CONDUITS Newsletter Online

Link to newsletter:

http://www.conduits.eu/Documents/CONDUITS%20Newsletter%202.pdf

ROADWAYS

8) Battle Over Electronic Billboard Rages on in North Carolina

Link to article in The Virginian-Pilot:

http://hamptonroads.com/2010/06/battle-over-electronic-billboard-rages-nc

9) States Look for New Ways to Promote Route 66 Attractions

Link to article in USA Today:

http://www.usatoday.com/travel/destinations/2010-06-26-route-66-attractions_N.htm

SAFETY / SECURITY

10) Feds Locate Virtual City Center in St. Clair County, Michigan

GIS technology will be deployed to improve public safety and communication.

Link to article in The Voice:

http://www.voicenews.com/articles/2010/06/25/news/doc4c222ec97b475414229047.txt

11) Louisiana DOTD Vehicles to be Fitted with Devices that Restrict Use of Mobile Devices While Moving

Link to article in Governing:

http://www.governing.com/idea-center/Protecting-Officials-from-Distracted-Driving.html

SPACE

12) Astronauts Sky High on Out-of-this-World Twittering

Link to article in Computerworld:

http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9178580/Astronauts_sky_high_on_out_of_this_world_twittering

TRANSIT

13) New York City Police and MTA to Connect Anti-Terror Cameras to Fiber-Optic Network

Link to article in the New York Post:

http://www.nypost.com/p/news/local/anti_terror_cams_on_track_for_subway_e3WS1rthzP1UejnOfP8DRP

14) Texas Advertising Firm Takes to the Tracks

Link to article in the Fort Worth Business Press:

http://www.fwbusinesspress.com/display.php?id=12829

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

15) New Columbus Traffic System Will Link to a Central Location

Link to story and video on WCMH-TV:

http://www2.nbc4i.com/news/2010/jun/25/new-traffic-system-will-link-central-location-ar-122270/

VEHICLES

16) How’s My Driving? Ask My Truck

Device tracks dangerous driving in commercial vehicles.

Link to article from the Los Angeles Times:

http://www.southbendtribune.com/article/20100626/Biz/6260397/1013/Biz

17) Ford to Debut Curve Control System in New Explorer

Link to AP article:

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Ford-to-debut-curve-control-apf-1756152058.html?x=0&.v=1

18) Phantom Calls and Damp Sensors

Technical service bulletins provide insights into recurring problems with various models.

Link to article in The New York Times:

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/06/27/automobiles/27TSB.html

News Releases

1) ITS Hessen Created

2) ITS (UK) Holds 17th Annual General Meeting

Upcoming Events

Airports Conference of the Americas – July 18-20 – Panama City, Panama

http://events.aaae.org/sites/100704/

Today in Transportation History

1910 **100^th anniversary** The dirigible Deutschland crashed in the Teutoburger Forest.  There were no serious injuries.  It was the first airliner crash.

http://www.airships.net/delag-passenger-zeppelins

======================================================================

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 bernie@bwcommunications.net.

TCN archives: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/transport-communications

Questions, comments about the TCN?  Please write the editor, Bernie Wagenblast atbernie@bwcommunications.net.

© 2010 Bernie Wagenblast  www.bwcommunications.net

Friday, June 25, 2010 – ISSN 1529-1057

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IBTTA 78th Annual Meeting & Exhibition — Register Today! Early Bird Discount Ends August 22, 2010

Come to San Diego, September 12-15, 2010, for IBTTA’s 78th Annual Meeting & Exhibition, the year’s most highly-anticipated learning and networking event — attracting more than 700 toll industry experts and decision makers from across the globe. Under the theme, Sustainable Transportation, the technical program offers tracks focused on innovation, policy, the economy, and the California tolling experience. Hosted by the California Toll Operators Committee (CTOC), this event features interactive seminars, influential speakers, technical tours and special events, informative exhibits and more! Customized sponsorship and exhibitor packages are available. Visit IBTTA’s website for details.

AVIATION

1) Flap Grows Over Plane Towing Tiger Woods Banner Over US Open

Link to article in The Herald:

http://www.montereyherald.com/local/ci_15374782

GPS / NAVIGATION

2) Mobile Map Use on the Rise, Smartphone Apps Drive Growth

Link to ZDNet article:

http://www.zdnet.com/blog/btl/mobile-map-use-on-the-rise-smartphone-apps-drive-growth/36323

3) GPS Systems Find More Favor with Farmers

Link to article in The Des Moines Register:

http://www.desmoinesregister.com/article/20100625/BUSINESS01/6250342/1029/BUSINESS/GPS-systems-find-more-favor-with-farmers

4) Turn Right, My Love

Have GPS voices become the new ‘other woman’ in American relationships?

Link to column in The New York Times:

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/06/27/fashion/27FamilyMatters.html

MARITIME

5) Vice Chairman of Washington State Transportation Commission Warned about Communications with Washington State Ferries Employees

Link to article in The Journal of the San Juans:

http://www.pnwlocalnews.com/sanjuans/jsj/news/97083589.html

OTHER

6) Speak Plainly, Residents Tell North Carolina Transportation Department

Link to article in the News & Record:

http://www.news-record.com/content/2010/06/24/article/speak_plainly_residents_tell_state_transportation_department

7) ERTICO – ITS Europe Forum Webcasts Available: ‘Bringing Intelligence Into Mobility – Deployment Challenges’

Link to videos:

http://www.erticoforum2010.eu/

PARKING

8) Digital Displays Reduce Stress, Helping Parking Facilities Serve Customers

Link to article in Parking Today:

http://www.parkingtoday.com/s_article.php?id=144

TELEMATICS

9) Telematics Awards 2010 Winners Announce

Link to article in Telematics Update:

http://social.telematicsupdate.com/pr/telematics-awards-2010-winners-announced

(Full Disclosure: I served as one of the judges for the awards)

TRANSIT

10) SEPTA Approves Changing Name of Pattison Station to AT&T

Link to article in The Philadelphia Inquirer:

http://www.philly.com/inquirer/local/pa/20100625_SEPTA_approves_changing_name_of_Pattison_station_to_AT_T.html

11) Delaware Moves Toward Open Transit Data

Link to article on TheTransitWire.com:

http://www.thetransitwire.com/2010/06/25/delaware-moves-toward-open-transit-data/

12) Transparency Needed from Texas Transit Agencies

Link to commentary in The Dallas Morning News:

http://transportationblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2010/06/guest-blogger-more-transparenc.html

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

13) Intelligent Technology May Divert Traffic Woes in China

Link to article in the People’s Daily:

http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/90001/90778/90860/7040032.html

14) No More Traffic Jams? Columbus, Ohio Wants to Upgrade Traffic System

Link to article in The Columbus Dispatch:

http://www.dispatch.com/live/content/local_news/stories/2010/06/25/no-more-traffic-jams.html

VEHICLES

15) At the Extreme End of Artificial Intelligence

Link to article in Forbes:

http://www.forbes.com/2010/06/25/artificial-intelligence-leaders-entrepreneurs-technology-ai.html

16) US Congress Considers Funding for In-Car Alcohol Detection System

Link to article in The New York Times:

http://wheels.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/06/25/congress-mulls-funding-for-in-car-alcohol-detection-system/

News Releases

1) Carnegie Mellon University and Bombardier Join Forces to Launch the New Pennsylvania Smart Infrastructure Incubator

2) Operation Lifesaver’s Distraction PSAs Win Tellys for People’s Choice, Editing, Public Service

3) Using the Earth’s Magnetic Field to Find a Parking Space

4) Missouri DOT Using New Products to Salvage Highway Signs, Save Money

5) Image Sensing Systems Acquires CitySync

6) Research and Markets: Automatic Number Plate Recognition System Market 2009-2013 Discusses Major Vendors of the Market

Upcoming Events

Modern Protective Structures Short Course – July 19-23 – Arlington, Virginia

http://conferences.dce.ufl.edu/mps/

Friday Bonus

How do you move traffic from driving on the left to driving on the right when crossing a bridge? Here’s one answer.

http://gizmodo.com/5560466/is-this-the-craziest-bridge-ever-designed

Today in Transportation History

1950 **60^th anniversary** North Korean troops invaded South Korea to begin the Korean War.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/onthisday/hi/dates/stories/june/25/newsid_2699000/2699641.stm

======================================================================

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 bernie@bwcommunications.net.

TCN archives: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/transport-communications

Questions, comments about the TCN?  Please write the editor, Bernie Wagenblast atbernie@bwcommunications.net.

© 2010 Bernie Wagenblast  www.bwcommunications.net

Date: July 7, 2010, from 3:00-4:30 p.m. EDT

Speakers:

• Lisa Castaneda, P.E.,  Harris County (TX) Toll Road Authority
• Paul A. Lampley, P.E., Florida DOT District Four

This Webinar,  will examine two different models for deploying congestion pricing projects. Lisa Castaneda, P.E., of the Harris County (TX) Toll Road Authority will discuss the new I-10/Katy Freeway.

The Katy Toll way/Managed Lanes is the first multi-lane electronic tollway in the Nation with full design standards, and it was developed through a public-private partnership. Additionally, Paul A. Lampley, P.E., of Florida DOT District Four, will discuss how Availability Payments were used to finance the upgrade of a 10.5-mile segment of I-595 between I-75/Sawgrass Expressway and I-95 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Similar in concept to pass-through tolls, availability payments are a means of compensating a private concessionaire for its responsibility to design, construct, operate, and/or maintain a tolled or non-tolled roadway for a set period of time.

Click here to register.

Thursday, June 24, 2010 – ISSN 1529-1057

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AVIATION

1) FAA Approves Unmanned Aircraft for Texas-Mexico Border

Link to article in the Austin American-Statesman:

http://www.statesman.com/news/texas-politics/faa-approves-unmanned-aircraft-for-texas-mexico-border-765836.html

2) US Air-Collision Alerts Top 200 Since New Monitoring Began

Link to Bloomberg article:

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-06-23/u-s-air-collision-alerts-top-200-since-new-monitoring-began.html

3) New Delhi to Join Jet-Set Club with Mega High-Tech Airport Terminal

Link to ANI article:

http://news.oneindia.in/2010/06/24/newdelhi-to-join-jet-set-club-with-mega-hi-tech-airportter.html

4) Report Addresses FAA Airmen Medical Information Vulnerabilities

Link to article on AvStop.Com:

http://avstop.com/news_june_2010/report_addresses_faa_airmen_medical_information_vulnerabilities.htm

Link to further information from the US DOT Inspector General:

http://www.oig.dot.gov/library-item/5351

CAMERAS

5) Los Angeles City Council Exempts Red Light Camera Contract from Arizona Boycott

Link to article in the Los Angeles Times:

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2010/06/la-council-exempts-red-light-camera-contract-from-arizona-boycott.html

6) Oklahoma ACLU Seeks Information on Planned Highway Camera System

Organization is concerned privacy rights might be violated by insurance verification enforcement system that would use highway surveillance cameras.

Link to article in The Oklahoman:

http://newsok.com/article/3470777

ELECTRONIC TOLLING

7) Bay Area’s First ‘Express’ Toll Lane to Open on I-680

Link to story on KTVU-TV:

http://www.ktvu.com/news/24025900/detail.html

GPS / NAVIGATION

8) Apple Location, Privacy Issue Prompts US House Inquiry

Link to article in PC Magazine:

http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2365619,00.asp

OTHER

9) A Virtual-World Job Made for a Real-World Crisis

How Eurocontrol used Twitter to keep the public and journalists updated on ash cloud disruptions.

Link to article in EuropeanVoice:

http://www.europeanvoice.com/article/imported/a-virtual-world-job-made-for-a-real-world-crisis/68344.aspx

10) GE Looks to Smart Grids for Airports, Railroads in Ecomagination 2.0

Link to Greentech Media article:

http://www.greentechmedia.com/articles/read/ge-looks-to-smart-grids-for-airports-railroads-in-ecomagination-2.0/

Link to further information from General Electric:

http://ge.ecomagination.com/

SAFETY / SECURITY

11) New Web Site to Help Commercial Truck Drivers with Health and Wellness

Link to article in Heavy Duty Trucking:

http://www.truckinginfo.com/news/news-detail.asp?news_id=70805

12) 911ETA Promises to Help Emergency Vehicles

Technology alerts drivers to approaching ambulances, fire trucks and police cars.

Link to story and video on KUSA-TV:

http://www.9news.com/seenon9news/article.aspx?storyid=141662&catid=509

13) Latest Issue of the University of Minnesota ITS Institute Update

–  Forum Highlights Technology to Help Teen Drivers

http://www.its.umn.edu/News/2010/06/16/teen-drivers/

–  ITS America Attendees Hop on Bus 2.0

http://www.its.umn.edu/News/2010/05/13/its-america/

–  Traffic Game Goes Viral

http://www.its.umn.edu/News/2010/05/18/traffic-game/

TELEMATICS

14) OnStar Enhances GM’s Brand Loyalty in China

Link to blog in the Financial Times:

http://blogs.ft.com/beyond-brics/2010/06/24/onstar-enhances-gms-brand-loyalty-in-china/

TRANSIT

15) Taking Bus Transit to the MAX in Salt Lake City

Link to article from ITS America:

http://www.itsa.org/itsa/files/pdf/UTA_SmartSolution_062410.pdf

VEHICLES

16) BMW Reveals Active Hazard Braking Project

Link to article on autoevolution:

http://www.autoevolution.com/news/bmw-reveals-active-hazard-braking-project-21687.html

News Releases

1) Ford Fiesta ‘Unwraps’ Itself With Unique New Interactive Owner Delivery Experience

2) Alaska Controllers Use Next Generation Air Transportation Technology to Improve Safety

3) FAA Awards Contracts to Accelerate Environmentally Friendly Technology

Solicitation

–  Program Opportunity Notice – Low Carbon Transportation Alternatives – NYSERDA

http://www.nyserda.org/funding/2078pon.asp

Upcoming Events

Talking Operations Webcast: How to Implement a Congestion Pricing Project: Alternate Delivery Models – July 7

http://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/resources/news/news_detail.asp?ID=655

Today in Transportation History

1340 **670^th anniversary** The Battle of Sluys was fought between the French and English navies.  Most of the French fleet was destroyed.  The battle marked the beginning of the Hundred Years War.

http://www.britishbattles.com/100-years-war/sluys.htm

1950 **60^th anniversary** Friendship International Airport, today known as BWI, was opened in Maryland.

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/maryland/bs-md-airport-anniversary-20100624,0,5493689.story

======================================================================

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 bernie@bwcommunications.net.

TCN archives: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/transport-communications

Questions, comments about the TCN?  Please write the editor, Bernie Wagenblast atbernie@bwcommunications.net.

© 2010 Bernie Wagenblast  www.bwcommunications.net

Bonday, June 21, 2010 – ISSN 1529-1057

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AVIATION

1) Smoother Airplane Landing Pattern Conserves Fuel

Link to article in The Daily Herald:

http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20100620/BIZ/706209979/1005

2) LAX to Replace Volunteer Traveler’s Aid

Link to article in the Daily Breeze:

http://www.dailybreeze.com/news/ci_15340925

3) Michigan Plant Makes Common Core Computer System for Boeing Dreamliner

Link to article in the Grand Rapids Business Journal:

http://www.grbj.com/GRBJ/ArticleArchive/2010/June/June+21/BUSINESS+JOURNAL+REPORT+ON+WZZM+NEWS.htm

GPS / NAVIGATION

4) Connecticut Heads Up 30-State Google Wi-Fi Probe

Link to article on CNET News:

http://news.cnet.com/8301-30684_3-20008332-265.html

5) Can Your GPS Handle the GSP?

Link to column in The Star-Ledger:

http://blog.nj.com/njv_kathleen_obrien/2010/06/can_your_gps_handle_the_gsp.html

ROADWAYS

6) Illinois Tollway Reluctant to Place Hospitality Signs Along Roadway

Link to column in the SouthtownStar:

http://www.southtownstar.com/news/kadner/2402974,061710kadner.article

SAFETY / SECURITY

7) Debate Heats Up in Congress Over Sale of Public Safety Spectrum

Link to article on Nextgov:

http://www.nextgov.com/nextgov/ng_20100618_5828.php

TELEMATICS

8) Three* Screen Strategy Highlighted at Telematics Detroit 2010

Link to article in Telematics Update:

http://social.telematicsupdate.com/content/three-screen-strategy-highlighted-telematics-detroit-2010

9) High-Tech to Keep Your Drive Alive

Link to article in the Times Colonist:

http://www.timescolonist.com/High+tech+keep+your+drive+alive/3178206/story.html

TRANSIT

10) Live Tube Map Shows the Power of Transport for London’s Data

Link to article in Wired:

http://www.wired.co.uk/news/archive/2010-06/21/live-tfl-tube-map

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

11) A Whole New Dimension of Gridlock

G20 summit in Toronto brings traffic management challenges.

Link to article in The Globe and Mail:

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/world/g8-g20/news/a-whole-new-dimension-of-gridlock/article1610288/

12) App Helps Drivers Avoid Trouble, Traffic and Cops

Link to article in The San Diego Union-Tribune:

http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2010/jun/20/app-helps-drivers-avoid-trouble-traffic-and-cops/

13) Houston Traffic Reporting Pioneer Facing Biggest Battle

Link to story and video on KTRK-TV:

http://abclocal.go.com/ktrk/story?section=news/local&id=7507546

VEHICLES

14) California License Plates Might Go Digital, Show Ads

In emergencies, plates could show Amber Alerts or traffic information.

Link to AP article:

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5js-hN6jxJHUz_kejID9ZUYzKXyqwD9GFS2V80

News Releases

1) Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders Establishes Digital Radio Committee

2) Operation Lifesaver, Inc. Joins 45 Countries in Observing International Level Crossing Awareness Day

3) Houston TranStar Boasts 730 Traffic Cameras

Job Posting

–  Operations Research Analysts – Research and Innovative Technology Administration – Cambridge, Massachusetts

http://jobview.usajobs.gov/GetJob.aspx?JobID=88735995

Solicitation

–  Request for Proposals – Traffic Data for Vehicle Traffic Reporting Solutions Provider – Triangle Software LLC

http://i.beatthetraffic.com/2010-06-BTT-Europe-RFP.pdf

Upcoming Events

ITS Georgia 2010 Annual Meeting and Exposition – September 19-21 – Greensboro, Georgia

http://itsga.org/2010annualmeetingregistration.htm

Today in Transportation History

1895 **115^th anniversary** The Kaiser-Wilhelm-Kanal, now known as the Kiel-Canal, opened in Germany.

http://www.kiel-canal.org/english.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 bernie@bwcommunications.net.

TCN archives: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/transport-communications

Questions, comments about the TCN?  Please write the editor, Bernie Wagenblast atbernie@bwcommunications.net.

© 2010 Bernie Wagenblast  www.bwcommunications.net

WHO: Former Congressman Sherwood Boehlert, Janet Kavinoky, Colin Peppard, Rob Puentes, and Kathy Ruffalo

WHAT: National Transportation Policy Project Briefing on practical strategies for beginning a transition to a performance-based national transportation program

WHEN: Wednesday, June 23, 2010 at 3:30PM

WHERE: Room 406, Dirksen Senate Office Building

Congressman Sherwood Boehlert and other leading transportation experts will discuss transitioning to a performance-based system

Washington, D.C. – The Bipartisan Policy Center’s (BPC) National Transportation Policy Project will host a briefing this Wednesday, June 23, 2010, at 3:30PM on transitioning to a performance-based federal surface transportation policy.  The briefing will be held in 406 Dirksen.

Former Congressman Sherwood Boehlert, an NTPP co-chair, will welcome attendees to the event followed by a panel discussion with Janet Kavinoky, Director, Transportation and Infrastructure, U.S. Chamber of Commerce; Colin Peppard, Deputy Director, Federal Transportation Policy, National Resources Defense Council;  Rob Puentes, Senior Fellow, Brookings Institution; and Kathy Ruffalo, President, Ruffalo and Associates.

In conjunction with this briefing, BPC will release its latest report, Transitioning to a Performance-Based Transportation Policy.  The report details the steps necessary for building the foundation and capacity to successfully transition to a performance-based system.  NTPP has been actively researching how to move U.S. transportation policy to a system that establishes a set of national goals and holds federal investments accountable for demonstrating results toward these goals.

NTPP released its blueprint for surface transportation reform, Performance Driven: A New Vision for U.S. Transportation Policy, last June, which called for a program with accountability and incentives for the achievement of clear national goals and interests.  Along with Congressman Boehlert, NTPP is led by its other co-chairs: former Senator Slade Gorton; former Congressman Martin Sabo; and former Mayor of Detroit Dennis Archer, and is composed of a broad, bipartisan coalition of transportation experts and business and civic leaders.

Media interested in the attending the briefing should RSVP to press@bipartisanpolicy.org.

Thursday, June 17, 2010 – ISSN 1529-1057

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Countdown to the 17th ITS World Congress in Busan

Mark your calendar to attend the 17th ITS World Congress at the Busan Exhibition & Convention Center from October 25-29, 2010. This year’s theme is ‘Ubiquitous Society with ITS.’ In Busan, Korea’s second-largest city, industry leaders will promote and share the latest, cutting-edge ITS technologies and trends. Register now.

ITS America is once again hosting a U.S. pavilion at the event. As an exhibitor, you’ll gain access to the projected 3,000 potential customers and partners hailing from over 20 countries around the world.  You’ll also take advantage of the pavilion’s prime location in the middle of the exhibit floor. For more information, please contact Patty Del Pozo at 202-721-4238.

GPS / NAVIGATION

1) BMW MicroNavigation to Go Where No Map has Gone Before

Link to CNET review:

http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-13746_7-20008029-48.html

2) Sense of Direction May be Innate

Link to article on World Science:

http://www.world-science.net/othernews/100616_direction

MARITIME

3) Truckers Picket Marine Atlantic Terminal Over Changes to Reservation System

Link to CBC story:

http://www.cbc.ca/canada/newfoundland-labrador/story/2010/06/16/truckers-marine-atlantic-616.html

OTHER

4) Despite Promise of Transparency, Government Continues to Hamper News Coverage of Oil Spill

Link to AP article:

http://www.latimes.com/business/nationworld/wire/sns-ap-us-gulf-oil-spill-media,0,1334110.story

Link to news release from the FAA:

http://www.faa.gov/news/press_releases/news_story.cfm?newsId=11517

5) IntelliDrive Data Capture and Management Program: Transforming the Federal Role

Link to further information from the Research and Innovative Technology Administration:

http://www.its.dot.gov/intellidrive/intellidrive_data_capture.htm

RAILROADS

6) Amtrak to Complete Union Station Upgrades, Add Control Center in Chicago

Link to article in Progressive Railroading:

http://www.progressiverailroading.com/prdailynews/news.asp?id=23609

SAFETY / SECURITY

7) EU Tries to Balance Terror War and Privacy

Link to article in The New York Times:

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/06/16/world/europe/16swift.html

8) Can Accidents Become a Rarity?

Link to article in The Independent:

http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/motoring/features/can-accidents-become-a-rarity-2002247.html

9) With New iPhone App, Parents Can Watch Kids’ Speed

Link to story and video on Bay News 9:

http://www.baynews9.com/content/36/2010/6/16/631269.html

TRANSIT

10) Universal Bay Area Transit Fare Card, ‘Clipper,’ Launches

Link to article in the Contra Costa Times:

http://www.contracostatimes.com/traffic/ci_15310097

Link to news release from the Metropolitan Transportation Commission:

http://www.mtc.ca.gov/news/press_releases/rel501.htm

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

11) Navteq to Steer Drivers Out of Jam in Dubai

Company hopes to team with major taxi companies to gather traffic information.

Link to article in The National:

http://www.thenational.ae/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20100617/BUSINESS/706179880/1005

12) $400,000 for Sign to Tell You You’re Stuck in Traffic

Link to article in The Manly Daily:

http://manly-daily.whereilive.com.au/news/story/400k-on-sign-to-tell-you-oure-stuck-in-traffic/

VEHICLES

13) Kenya Revenue Authority Stands Firm on Electronic Cargo Tracking Deadline

Link to article in Business Daily:

http://www.businessdailyafrica.com/Company%20Industry/KRA%20stands%20firm%20on%20electronic%20cargo%20tracking%20deadline/-/539550/941334/-/87wffjz/-/

News Releases

1) NII Responds to Rash of Backover Accidents – New ANSI A10.47 Standard Calls Hard Hat Mirrors a Best Practice

Upcoming Events

Talking Operations Webcast: Template for Submitting Dynamic Mobility Applications Using IntelliDrive – June 24

https://www.nhi.fhwa.dot.gov/resources/webconference/web_conf_learner_reg.aspx?webconfid=20690

Today in Transportation History

1910 **100^th anniversary** The A. Vlaicu 1 airplane flew its first flight in Romania.

http://www.earlyaviators.com/evlaicu1.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 bernie@bwcommunications.net.

TCN archives: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/transport-communications

Questions, comments about the TCN?  Please write the editor, Bernie Wagenblast atbernie@bwcommunications.net.

© 2010 Bernie Wagenblast  http://www.bwcommunications.net