TransportGooru

Thursday, March 10, 2011 – ISSN 1529-1057

Countdown to IBTTA’s Organization Management Workshop ― April 10-12, Jersey City, NJ

Register today for IBTTA’s Organization Management Workshop and keep current on the latest industry trends in building a better organization. If you are responsible for the communications, marketing, HR, finance, and administration in your organization, this meeting is for you! This popular workshop will focus on emerging issues and practical solutions related to advancing your organization and keeping stakeholders satisfied. Meeting highlights include Gerard Braud, Keynote Speaker and Crisis Communications Expert; general session on regional mobility challenges featuring a power panel of transportation executives and commissioners; communications open house, and more. Visit www.IBTTA.org/JERSEYCITY to view the brochure, register, and learn about sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities. [Meeting Details] To view IBTTA’s entire 2011 Education Series, click here.

AVIATION

1) FAA to Install New ATC System at 11 Major Centers

Link to article in Aviation Daily:

http://goo.gl/dc1FE

2) Air Traffic Overhaul Hinges on ‘Human Factor’

Link to story and video on CNN:

http://edition.cnn.com/2011/TECH/innovation/03/09/nextgen.tech/

3) Airlines Say They Learned of Heathrow Reopening on TV

Link to article in the Financial Times:

http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/66ad707e-49b8-11e0-acf0-00144feab49a.html

4) Aircraft Wi-Fi Fears Won’t Fly

Link to article on CNET News:

http://news.cnet.com/8301-1035_3-20041542-94.html

5) Jetstar’s iPad Plans Leak

Airline plans to use units for in-flight entertainment.

Link to article on CNET Australia:

http://www.cnet.com.au/jetstar-s-ipad-plans-leak-339311007.htm

6) Flying on a Wing and a Prayer

Airport chaplains serve travelers and aviation employees.

Link to article and audio in The Wall Street Journal:

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704629104576190532886033882.html

OTHER

7) Weare, New Hampshire Police Charge Man for Recording Traffic Stop

Link to article in the New Hampshire Union Leader:

http://gamma.unionleader.com/article.aspx?headline=Weare+police+charge+man+for+recording+traffic+stop&articleId=192f30ad-3c32-4033-9743-8b048ae97170

8) Chrysler Fires Social Media Agency After Twitter F-bomb

Link to article in Automotive News:

http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110310/RETAIL03/110319995/1492

PARKING

9) Apps to Cut Through the Bother of City Parking

Link to article in The New York Times:

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/03/10/technology/personaltech/10smart.html

PUBLIC INFORMATION / EDUCATION

10) Outreach Key to Transportation Sector

Link to article in the Green Bay Press-Gazette:

http://www.greenbaypressgazette.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2011103100603

RAILROADS

11) NJ Transit OKs Positive Train Control System

Link to article in the Asbury Park Press:

http://www.app.com/article/20110309/NJNEWS10/103090383/1007/NJNEWS10/NJ-Transit-OKs-anti-collision-system

ROADWAYS

12) Suggested Variable Speed Limits Coming to I-270 in Missouri

Link to article on Town and Country-Manchester Patch:

http://townandcountry-manchester.patch.com/articles/suggested-speed-limits-coming-to-i-270

13) Are Electronic Signs on Highways a Money Maker?

Link to story and video on WFTV-TV:

http://www.wftv.com/news/27138347/detail.html

14) GPS-Equipped Street Lights Ready for Road Test

Link to article in The Chronicle Herald:

http://thechronicleherald.ca/Business/1232234.html

15) You Could be the Next Goethals

Staten Island borough president calls for name of new bridge to go to highest bidder.

Link to blog in The New York Times:

http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/03/10/you-could-be-the-next-goethals

SAFETY / SECURITY

16) App Puts First Responder Network in Your Mobile

Link to article in Government Security News:

http://www.gsnmagazine.com/node/22657

SPACE

17) NASA Seeks Deep Space Communications Tech

Link to article in Government Computer News:

http://gcn.com/articles/2011/03/09/nasa-space-communications.aspx

TRANSIT

18) NJ Transit Launches ‘Scorecard’ Customer Satisfaction Surveys

Link to article in The Star-Ledger:

http://www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2011/03/nj_transit_launches_scorecard.html

Link to news release from NJ Transit:

http://www.njtransit.com/tm/tm_servlet.srv?hdnPageAction=PressReleaseTo&PRESS_RELEASE_ID=2667

19) Are Public Tweetings in Your Future?

Link to blog in Metro:

http://www.metro-magazine.com/Blog/Transit-Dispatches/Story/2011/03/Are-public-tweetings-in-your-future-.aspx

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

20) Push for Dial-In Traffic Information

Australian Information Industry Association looks to get access to public transport data.

Link to article in the City Messenger:

http://city-messenger.whereilive.com.au/news/story/push-for-data-on-transport/

News Releases

1) ‘Coalition to Save Our GPS’ Launched

2) Kapsch TrafficCom to Deploy Real-Time, 5.9 GHz DSRC Wireless Roadside Inspection System for New York State Energy Research and Development Authority

3) New York City Subway Countdown Clocks Go Express … or Local

4) NJ Transit Service Updates Now Available on Twitter

5) Operation Lifesaver Notes Rise in 2010 US Crossing Collisions, Pedestrian-Train Incidents

6) NEC and Australian Federal Government Sign Knowledge Partnership to Address Key Societal Issues, Including Urban Transportation

7) TidalTV Unveils Mobile Video Advertising Platform

8) Access to Information is Good Governance: VIA Rail Recognized for Best Practice by Information Commissioner

9) Mad Men Make Online Pitch for High-Speed Rail

10) Winner of 2011 APTA Call Center Challenge Announced

11) SITA Enables India’s Air Traffic Control to Move to Safer Digital Data Communications

Upcoming Events

Workshop: Traffic and Travel Information: Access to Public Data for Digital Road Maps – March 29 – Brussels

http://ec.europa.eu/transport/its/events/2011_03_29_traffic_and_travel_information_en.htm

Today in Transportation History

1961 **50^th anniversary** Astronaut and MD Laurel Blair Salton Clark was born in Ames, Iowa.  Clark died during re-entry of the Space Shuttle Columbia.

http://www.jsc.nasa.gov/Bios/htmlbios/clark.html

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

The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically Monday through Friday.

To subscribe (for free) or unsubscribe, please contact me at bernie@bwcommunications.net.

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

Become a TCN fan on Facebook!

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

© 2011 Bernie Wagenblast  www.bwcommunications.net

Job at a Glance

• Job Category: Transportation Planning
• Job Level: Mid I (1-4 years)
• Salary Range: $45,286-$66,406 DOQ
• AICP Certification: Not Required

Job Description

• Transportation Planner II (Grade 6): $45,286-$60,369
• Transportation Planner III (Grade 7): $49,814-$66,406

POSITION SPECIFICATIONS:

The Department of Transportation Planning of the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments is seeking a Planner II or III for the Program Coordination Team. The Program Coordination Team supports the National Capital Region Transportation Planning Board (TPB), the federally designated metropolitan planning organization (MPO) for the Washington, D.C. region. The TPB plays an important role as the regional forum for transportation planning in the National Capital region, and prepares plans and programs that the federal government must approve in order for federal-aid transportation funds to flow to the Washington region. The successful candidate will perform professional level planning activities on a wide range of activities, such as:

(1) Support the development, analysis and documentation of the Financially Constrained Long Range Transportation Plan (CLRP) which could include:

• Updating regional maps showing the major projects in the CLRP;
• Analyzing travel demand data to describe the performance of the plan and creating clear and concise charts and graphics;
• Writing content for websites, brochures and reports; and
• Providing website support for on-line public comment periods.

(2) Assist with regional transportation and land use scenario planning which could include:

• Analyzing additional scenarios with travel demand output data, developing high-level maps and graphics, and writing reports and website content; and
• Conducting cost-benefit analysis of additional transportation and land use scenarios.

(3) Support the environmental consultation and mitigation efforts, which could include:

• Assisting with efforts to meet federal requirements for environmental consultation on the development of the Financially Constrained Long Range Transportation Plan (CLRP) with environmental resource agencies which includes research, data collection, mapping of natural resources and transportation projects and getting feedback from environmental agencies;
• Researching climate change and adaptation issues for MPOs; and
• Assisting with expanded environmental consultation activities such as helping form a task force to better coordinate transportation and environmental planning and the research for and creation of a toolkit on advanced mitigation;

(4) Provide staff support to the other TPB activities and committees as needed, such as:

• Quarterly meetings of the TPB Regional Taxicab Regulators Task Force and the Access for All Advisory Committee;
• Assisting with the monthly TPB electronic mail-out;
• Developing regional transportation grant applications; and
• Promoting regional bike sharing.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

Requires (1) knowledge in the principles and practices of metropolitan transportation; knowledge in environmental planning or science a plus; (2) strong software skills in Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), ArcGIS, and the Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, InDesign, Dreamweaver, Photoshop); experience with travel demand modeling software and Microsoft Access a plus, (3) strong analytical and writing skills; presentation skills a plus; and (4) ability to maintain effective working relationships with other employees, elected officials and the public.

Transportation Planner II: Requires a master’s degree in urban planning, environmental or natural science, public administration, or an appropriate related field and two years’ of working experience in planning or a related field. Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, analytical and writing skills, and abilities will be considered.

Transportation Planner III: Requires at least three years’ working experience in planning or related field, and master’s degree in urban planning, environmental or natural science, public administration, or an appropriate related field. Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, analytical and writing skills, and abilities will be considered.

Contact Information

Phone 202-962-3200
Fax 202-962-3715
Email resumes@mwcog.org
Website www.mwcog.org
Postal Address Human Resources – MWCOG
777 North Capitol Street
Suite 300
Washington, DC 20002

Wednesday, March 9, 2011 – ISSN 1529-1057

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Free INRIX Webinar on the State of Traffic Congestion Across America in 2010

America is back on the road to gridlock according to the just published INRIX National Traffic Scorecard 2010 Annual Report. The 150-page Scorecard provides a comprehensive analysis of the state of traffic congestion in 2010 and how it has changed versus 2009. Extensively analyzing traffic congestion on major roads across America, the Scorecard ranks the nation’s 100 largest metropolitan areas and identifies the nation’s worst traffic corridors. The Scorecard also provides a comparison of 2010 traffic congestion in U.S. cities versus major cities in the U.K., France, and Germany. Additionally, leveraging unique analysis from its vast data warehouse, INRIX provides a snapshot of commercial freight traffic concentration across America.

Hosted by Rick Schuman, the report author and INRIX VP of Public Sector, this webinar will provide an executive summary of the report findings and analysis of issues to watch in 2011. Download the complete, free Scorecard report in advance at http://scorecard.inrix.com

Webinar: INRIX National Traffic Scorecard 2010 Annual Report

Date: Thursday, March 17, 2011 Time: 9:00AM (PDT); 12:00PM (EDT)

Register now: http://www.inrix.com/webinars.asp

AVIATION

1) US, EU Near Air Safety Pact

Agencies would share information and avoid duplicating efforts.

Link to article in The Wall Street Journal:

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703662804576188622512907848.html

2) Emerging Mobile Technology Could Untangle Airport Processing

Link to article on Tnooz:

http://www.tnooz.com/2011/03/09/mobile/emerging-mobile-technology-could-untangle-airport-processing

3) AeroSafety World – February 2011

Link to magazine:

http://flightsafety.org/asw/feb11/asw_feb11.pdf

BICYCLES

4) Traffic Reports from the Bike Path

Link to blog in the Journal Sentinel:

http://www.jsonline.com/blogs/lifestyle/117650608.html

GPS / NAVIGATION

5) Interview with David Murphy of Telmap

Link to interview in Mobile Marketing:

http://www.mobilemarketingmagazine.co.uk/content/pillar-talk

MARITIME

6) Sharing of Data for Maritime Security Stressed at International Conference

Link to article in Dawn:

http://www.dawn.com/2011/03/09/sharing-of-data-for-maritime-security-stressed.html

7) Antwerp Pilots Barge ID System

Link to article in Heavy Lift & Project Forwarding International:

http://www.heavyliftpfi.com/content/NewsItem.aspx?id=2626

OTHER

8) Uber App Hails a Town Car for You

Link to article and video in USA Today:

http://www.usatoday.com/tech/products/2011-03-08-uber-car-app_N.htm

9) Sabre Debuts Social Networking Site for Travel Agents in Germany

Link to article on Tnooz:

http://www.tnooz.com/2011/03/09/news/sabre-debuts-social-networking-site-for-travel-agents-in-germany

10) ERTICO Input to European Commission Consultation on ‘Strategic Transport Technology Plan’

Link to thematic paper:

http://www.ertico.com/assets/NewFolder-2/ERTICO-input-to-Strategic-Tranport-Technology-Plan.pdf

ROADWAYS

11) Study: Elderly Drivers Need More Traffic Signs

Link to story from ABC News Radio:

http://www.kgoam810.com/rssItem.asp?feedid=116&itemid=29642339

Link to news release from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev:

http://bgu.ac.il/Eng/home/News/Elderly+Drivers.htm

SAFETY / SECURITY

12) Amtrak Passenger Upset by Early Morning Questioning

Nebraska State Patrol checks sleeping car passengers.

Link to story and video on WOWT-TV:

http://www.wowt.com/news/headlines/Amtrak_Passenger_Upset_By_Patrol_Questioning_117620619.html

13) Local Radio Interoperability Solved with High-Tech Trailers

Link to article in Government Technology:

http://www.govtech.com/public-safety/Local-Radio-Interoperability-Solved-High-Tech-Trailers-030811.html

TELEMATICS

14) Q&A with TRW: Driver Assistance Systems

Link to interview on just-auto:

http://www.just-auto.com/interview/driver-assistance-systems_id109615.aspx

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

15) Hong Kong to Develop Traffic and Incident Management System

Link to article in FutureGov:

http://www.futuregov.asia/articles/2011/mar/10/hong-kong-develop-traffic-and-incident-management-/

16) Predicting Your Future Commute

Link to story and audio report on KIRO Radio:

http://www.mynorthwest.com/category/local_news_articles/20110308/Predicting-your-future-commute/

17) South Jersey Transportation Authority Looks to Expand Communications Command Center

Link to article in Shore News Today:

http://www.shorenewstoday.com/index.php/regional/atlantic-county/9602-state-police-barracks-envisioned-for-larger-farley-plaza-command-center.html

VEHICLES

18) Connecting Trucks, Improving Safety

Link to blog from RITA Administrator Peter Appel in The Journal of Commerce:

http://www.joc.com/mublog/20110308

19) BMW ConnectedDrive – Paving the Way to Total Integration

Link to blog on Paul Tan’s Automotive News:

http://paultan.org/2011/03/09/bmw-connecteddrive-paving-the-way-to-total-integration/

News Releases

1) Globecomm Launches Globecomm Maritime

2) Telmap Enables Mobile Operators to Offer Free Location-Based Services to Subscribers

Upcoming Events

2011 Iowa Aviation Conference – April 20-21 – West Des Moines, Iowa

http://www.iowaairports.org/conference/index.htm

Today in Transportation History

1961 **50^th anniversary** Korabl-Sputnik 4, known in the West as Sputnik 9, was launched.

http://www.astronautix.com/details/korik479.htm

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

The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically Monday through Friday.

To subscribe (for free) or unsubscribe, please contact me at bernie@bwcommunications.net.

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

Become a TCN fan on Facebook!

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

© 2011 Bernie Wagenblast  www.bwcommunications.net

Tuesday, March 8, 2011 – ISSN 1529-1057

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Countdown to IBTTA’s Organization Management Workshop ― April 10-12, Jersey City, NJ

Register today for IBTTA’s Organization Management Workshop and keep current on the latest industry trends in building a better organization. If you are responsible for the communications, marketing, HR, finance, and administration in your organization, this meeting is for you! This popular workshop will focus on emerging issues and practical solutions related to advancing your organization and keeping stakeholders satisfied. Meeting highlights include Gerard Braud, Keynote Speaker and Crisis Communications Expert; general session on regional mobility challenges featuring a power panel of transportation executives and commissioners; communications open house, and more. Visit www.IBTTA.org/JERSEYCITY to view the brochure, register, and learn about sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities. To view IBTTA’s entire 2011 Education Series, click here.

AVIATION

1) FAA Moves to Limit Blockout System Hiding Private Jet Flights

Link to article on ProPublica:

http://www.propublica.org/article/faa-moves-to-limit-secrecy-for-private-jets

Link to news release from the National Business Aviation Association:

http://www.nbaa.org/news/pr/2011/20110304-019.php

2) Uniform Format for Airline E-tickets in India Soon

Link to article in The Economic Times:

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics/nation/uniform-format-for-air-e-ticket-soon/articleshow/7651531.cms

3) Getting the Required Navigation Performance Out of Your Aircraft

Link to article in Aerospace Engineering:

http://www.sae.org/mags/AEM/9475

CAMERAS

4) Ohio Abandons Plans for Security Camera Network

Link to AP article:

http://www.businessweek.com/ap/financialnews/D9LQNEUO1.htm

GPS / NAVIGATION

5) GPS Outage ‘Could Floor’ Some Services, Industries

Emergency services and public transport among those which would be seriously impacted.

Link to article in Computerworld UK:

http://www.computerworlduk.com/news/it-business/3264102/gps-outage-could-floor-emergency-services-oil-exploration-and-financial-trading/

Link to news release from The Royal Academy of Engineering:

http://www.raeng.org.uk/news/releases/shownews.htm?NewsID=633

6) Iditarod Mushers Allowed Use of GPS for the First Time

Link to article in the Anchorage Daily News:

http://www.adn.com/2011/03/07/1742131/some-like-to-use-gps-others-disdain.html

MARITIME

7) Tug’s Mate on Phone at Time of Deadly Duck Accident in Delaware River, NTSB Report Says

Link to article in The Philadelphia Inquirer:

http://www.philly.com/philly/news/politics/city/117567398.html

OTHER

8) Whetting Your Travel App-etite

A sampler of useful transportation-related tools for smart phones.

Link to article in InTransition:

http://intransitionmag.org/Winter_2011/transportation_apps.aspx

9) How to Leverage Technology to Improve Transportation Cheaply

Link to commentary in The Providence Journal:

http://www.projo.com/opinion/contributors/content/CT_giglio8_03-08-11_RMMQQLP_v6.1f41be2.html

PUBLIC INFORMATION / EDUCATION

10) A New Way to Talk About Transportation

Link to publication from AASHTO:

http://downloads.transportation.org/ANewWayToTalkAboutTransportation/ANewWayToTalkSummary.pdf

SAFETY / SECURITY

11) The Responder – March 2011

Link to newsletter of the TIM Network and National Traffic Incident Management Coalition:

http://goo.gl/0aZ08

TRANSIT

12) New App for Calgary Transit

Link to article in the Calgary Herald:

http://www.calgaryherald.com/technology/Where+There+that/4400710/story.html

13) The Bright Ride: Twitter Account Extols Virtues of WMATA

Link to blog in Express:

http://www.expressnightout.com/content/2011/03/new-twitter-extols-positives-of-wmata-dc-rider.php

14) How Businesses Can Use NexTrip

Link to blog on +Metro:

http://www.plusmetro.com/archive/all/2011/03/04/how-businesses-can-use-nextrip

News Releases

1) America Back on the Road to Gridlock According to the Inrix National Traffic Scorecard

2) TrafficLand Launches Live Traffic Video in Los Angeles and Orange County, California

3) New System to Improve Process for Routing Oversize Truck Loads in Kansas

4) US Department of Transportation Releases New ‘Faces of Distracted Driving’ Video

5) Mitsubishi, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Hitachi Selected for Smart Community Project in Spain

6) Nav Canada Boosts Technology Solutions with NAVCANatm

Solicitation

–  Media Travel Grant – 2011 International Transport Forum

http://internationaltransportforum.org/2011/mediatravel.html

Upcoming Events

Taxicab, Limousine & Paratransit Association Spring Conference & Expo – April 19-22 – Charleston, South Carolina

http://www.tlpa.org/meetings/springconference2010.cfm

Today in Transportation History

1911 **100^th anniversary** Ford Motor Company (England) Limited was incorporated.

http://www.ford.co.uk/AboutFord/News/CompanyNews/CountDown

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

The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically Monday through Friday.

To subscribe (for free) or unsubscribe, please contact me at bernie@bwcommunications.net.

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

Become a TCN fan on Facebook!

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

© 2011 Bernie Wagenblast  www.bwcommunications.net

Monday, March 7, 2011 – ISSN 1529-1057

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Solve your corridor congestion and signal timing challenges with InSync adaptive traffic control

Free webinar with the facts on adaptive traffic control results.  Visit http://rhythmtraffic.com/facts

For decades, public works departments and traffic engineers struggled to reduce congestion, delay, stops and accidents on busy arterial roadways.  Now state and local agencies across the U.S. are running the InSync adaptive traffic control solution on dozens of corridors and realizing unprecedented benefits.  It is common to see stop reductions of 90%, delay reductions of 75%, travel time reductions of 40%, and significant reductions in fuel usage and emissions.

Join us for an information-packed webinar to see how adaptive traffic control can benefit your roadways and communities.  In only a few minutes you will see and hear before-and-after results reported by independent engineering firms, experiences of traffic professionals who installed InSync and other systems, details on the artificial intelligence and hardware components which make up the InSync system and more.  Get the facts at http://rhythmtraffic.com/facts

AVIATION

1) Cyndi Lauper Calms Angry Travelers at Buenos Aires Airport with Impromptu Song

Link to article and video in the Toronto Star:

http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/music/article/949743–video-cyndi-lauper-entertains-stranded-airport-passengers

2) Yes, That’s an Ad in the Airport Bathroom Mirror

Link to commentary on CNN:

http://www.cnn.com/2011/OPINION/03/06/greene.bathroom.advertising

3) Can the FAA Get Rid of Air Traffic Controllers?

Link to blog in The Atlantic:

http://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2011/03/can-the-faa-get-rid-of-air-traffic-controllers/72019/

CAMERAS

4) Covert Cameras Likely to be Installed in Indian Passenger Planes

Link to article in The Economic Times:

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/news-by-industry/transportation/airlines-/-aviation/covert-cameras-likely-to-be-installed-in-passenger-planes/articleshow/7638368.cms

GPS / NAVIGATION

5) North Korea Behind GPS Signal Disruption in South: Reports

Link to Reuters article:

http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/03/06/us-korea-north-hacking-idUSTRE7250Z120110306

6) Google Update Adds Automatic Traffic Info to Maps Navigation

Link to article in Computerworld:

http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9213639/Google_update_adds_automatic_traffic_info_to_Maps_Navigation

7) GPS Chaos: How a $30 Box Can Jam Your Life

Link to article in New Scientist:

http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn20202-gps-chaos-how-a-30-box-can-jam-your-life.html

8) GPS Helping Companies Save on Fuel Costs

Link to story and video on WMAQ-TV:

http://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/gps-fuel-costs-117433663.html

MARITIME

9) High-Tech Gear Helps Reel in Fish Poachers

Link to article in USA Today:

http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/environment/2011-03-07-poachingfish07_ST_N.htm

OTHER

10) Man Apologizes for Traffic Jam Via Twitter

Link to story and video on KING-TV:

http://www.king5.com/home/Man-apologizes-for-traffic-jam-via-Twitter-117452583.html

11) Why Data is the Next Game-Changer in Travel

Link to article on Tnooz:

http://www.tnooz.com/2011/03/07/news/why-data-is-the-next-game-changer-in-travel/

12) What Do You Do When Trapped in a Tunnel?

An accident inside the Lincoln Tunnel presented communication challenges for those caught in the backup.

Link to column in The Record:

http://www.northjersey.com/news/117480188_Hours_in_tunnel_on_bus_and_no_explanation.html

13) Is There a Downside to ‘Intelligent Cities’ or ‘Smart Cities’?

Link to blog from the National Resources Defense Council:

http://switchboard.nrdc.org/blogs/kbenfield/is_there_a_downside_to_intelli.html

RAILROADS

14) US to Scale Back Rules on Train Safety Technology

Link to Dow Jones Newswires article:

http://www.nasdaq.com/aspx/stock-market-news-story.aspx?storyid=201103041512dowjonesdjonline000536

TRANSIT

15) Toronto Transit Commission Drivers Fired for Harmless Cell Phone Use, Union Says

Link to article in the Toronto Star:

http://www.thestar.com/news/transportation/article/949724–ttc-drivers-fired-for-harmless-cellphone-use-union-says

16) Facebook Page for Pune, India Transport Agency Finds Few Takers

Link to article in The Indian Express:

http://www.indianexpress.com/news/two-months-on-transport-utilitys-facebook-page-finds-few-takers/758560/

17) New York MTA Looks to Sell Ads in Subway Tunnels

Link to story on WNYC Radio:

http://www.wnyc.org/articles/wnyc-news/2011/mar/06/mta-looking-sell-ads-subway-tunnels/

18) Fares and the Future of Transit: Wireless, Smart and Connected

Link to blog on SmartPlanet:

http://www.smartplanet.com/business/blog/smart-takes/fares-and-the-future-of-transit-wireless-smart-and-connected/14708/

19) Transit Data Drives Economic Engine for Open Government

Link to blog on The Huffington Post:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/alexander-howard/transit-data-drives-econo_b_831812.html

20) Technology in Transit

Transit planning and real-time information technology could get drivers on the bus.

Link to blog in Sightline Daily:

http://daily.sightline.org/daily_score/archive/2011/03/04/technology-in-transit

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

21) FCC Eyes Expanding Role of Travelers’ Information Stations

Link to article in Radio World:

http://radioworld.com/article/114868

22) Pune Traffic Police to Launch Pilot Run of Free SMS Alert Service
Link to article in The Times of India:

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/pune/Traffic-police-to-launch-pilot-run-of-free-SMS-alert-service/articleshow/7630384.cms

23) Lake County, Illinois has Live Traffic iPhone App

Link to article on Libertyville Patch:

http://libertyville.patch.com/articles/lake-county-has-live-traffic-iphone-app-5

Link to further information from Lake County PASSAGE:

http://www.lakecountypassage.com/about/iphone.html

VEHICLES

24) The Future of In-Car Infotainment Systems

Link to article in Popular Mechanics:

http://www.popularmechanics.com/cars/news/industry/the-future-of-in-car-infotainment-systems

News Releases

1) US Department of Transportation and Consumer Reports Launch Partnership to Fight Distracted Driving

2) Nearest 1.0.1 Provides Useful Airport GPS Information for Pilots

3) Fair Glass Bead Market Access Coalition Expresses Support for AASHTO and FHWA Efforts to Address Glass Bead Safety Issue

4) The Gulf Satellite-Aided Search and Rescue Seminar Starts with High-Level Regional and International Participation

5) SITA Steps Closer to FAA NextGen with USA VDL Coverage

6) Sensys Networks Awarded ISO 9001:2008 Certification

7) Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport Introduces Visual Paging Services for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Customers

8) GM’s OnStar to Tally 7.9 Million Subscribers in 2017

9) How the Public Perceives Community Information Systems

10) Chevrolets Tweet to SXSW Using Futuristic OnStar Technology

Upcoming Events

Webcast: Positive Train Control and Its Impact on Short Lines – March 22

http://www.progressiverailroading.com/Webcasts/ptc_032211/default.asp

Today in Transportation History

1961 **50^th anniversary** Max Conrad set a world record for circumnavigating the globe in a light airplane.  His plane landed in Miami after flying for eight days, 18 hours and 49 minutes.

http://www.maxconrad.com/

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

The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically Monday through Friday.

To subscribe (for free) or unsubscribe, please contact me at bernie@bwcommunications.net.

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

Become a TCN fan on Facebook!

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

© 2011 Bernie Wagenblast  www.bwcommunications.net

Thursday, March 3, 2011 – ISSN 1529-1057

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Solve your corridor congestion and signal timing challenges with InSync adaptive traffic control

Free webinar with the facts on adaptive traffic control results.  Visit http://rhythmtraffic.com/facts

For decades, public works departments and traffic engineers struggled to reduce congestion, delay, stops and accidents on busy arterial roadways.  Now state and local agencies across the U.S. are running the InSync adaptive traffic control solution on dozens of corridors and realizing unprecedented benefits.  It is common to see stop reductions of 90%, delay reductions of 75%, travel time reductions of 40%, and significant reductions in fuel usage and emissions.

Join us for an information-packed webinar to see how adaptive traffic control can benefit your roadways and communities.  In only a few minutes you will see and hear before-and-after results reported by independent engineering firms, experiences of traffic professionals who installed InSync and other systems, details on the artificial intelligence and hardware components which make up the InSync system and more.  Get the facts at http://rhythmtraffic.com/facts

CAMERAS

1) Arizona State Senate Rejects Ban on Photo Traffic Enforcement

Link to article in the East Valley Tribune:

http://www.eastvalleytribune.com/arizona/politics/article_e13f2b7a-4549-11e0-bc79-001cc4c03286.html

ELECTRONIC TOLLING

2) ExpressLanes – A ‘HOT’ Topic – ACS Discusses ‘High Occupancy Toll’ Lanes

Link to podcast from Xerox Real Business Radio:

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/show.aspx?userurl=xeroxradio&year=2011&month=02&day=24&url=expresslanes–a-hot-topic-acs-discusses-high-occupancy-toll-lanes

GPS / NAVIGATION

3) European GPS Overlay ‘Ready for Plane Use’

Link to BBC News story:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-12631742

Link to news release from the European Space Agency:

http://www.esa.int/esaNA/SEM98MUTLKG_egnos_0.html

4) TomTom Partners with A1; HD Traffic Gets to Austria

Link to article on GPS Business News:

http://www.gpsbusinessnews.com/TomTom-Partners-with-A1-HD-Traffic-Gets-to-Austria-UPDATED_a2870.html

OTHER

5) iMobility Newsletter – February 2011

Link to newsletter from ERTICO:

http://www.ertico.com/assets/NewFolder-2/FebNLfinal.pdf

ROADWAYS

6) Highway Signs Go Live in British Columbia

Message boards are first in the province to be directly linked to a weather station.

Link to article from the Westerly News:

http://www.canada.com/Highway+signs+live/4378103/story.html

7) The GTT Connection – March 2011

Link to newsletter from Global Traffic Technologies:

http://goo.gl/phDtT

SAFETY / SECURITY

8) MEP Calls for Creation of EU Road Safety Coordinator

Link to article on EurActiv:

http://www.euractiv.com/en/transport/mep-calls-creation-eu-road-safety-coordinator-news-502699

TRANSIT

9) Los Angeles Metro Begins Testing Real-Time Bus Arrival System

Link to article in The Source:

http://thesource.metro.net/2011/03/02/metro-begins-testing-real-time-bus-arrival-system/

10) Cleveland RTA Apologizes for Lagging Alert to Rail Riders After Ice Storm

Link to blog in The Plain Dealer:

http://blog.cleveland.com/metro/2011/03/post_440.html

Link to message from the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority:

http://www.riderta.com/nu_ridersalerts_list.asp?listingid=1485

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

11) Beijing to Monitor Real-Time Traffic Through Mobile Platform

Link to article on FutureGov:

http://www.futuregov.asia/articles/2011/mar/03/beijing-monitor-real-time-traffic-through-mobile-p/

VEHICLES

12) How We’ll Beat Traffic and Find Parking Spots in the Future

Link to article on Mashable:

http://mashable.com/2011/03/02/bill-ford-jr-ted-talk/

13) Battle for the Dash is On

Automakers, OEMs expand HD Radio offerings as other media options proliferate.

Link to article in Radio World:

http://radioworld.com/article/114760

News Releases

1) Proposed FRA Rule Would Require Railroads to Establish Emergency Notification Systems for Reporting of Unsafe Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Conditions

2) Over 35 Million In-Vehicle Infotainment Systems Expected to Ship in 2015

3) Airservices Australia and RAAF Committed to Greater Harmonization

Job Postings

–  Transportation Specialist – Federal Highway Administration – Washington, DC

http://goo.gl/zN83q

Upcoming Events

Webinar: The Next Generation of Parking Guidance Solutions – March 4

Link to further information from Amano McGann:

https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/244608915

Today in Transportation History

1911 **100^th anniversary** Congress made its first appropriation for the purchase of aircraft by the US Army Signal Corps.

http://www.afhso.af.mil/topics/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=15193

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

The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically Monday through Friday.

To subscribe (for free) or unsubscribe, please contact me at bernie@bwcommunications.net.

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

Become a TCN fan on Facebook!

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

© 2011 Bernie Wagenblast  www.bwcommunications.net

The Research and Innovation Technology Administration (RITA) is looking for a highly talented Transportation Specialist with a passion for transportation data and analysis to join the Intelligent Transportation Systems Joint Program Office (ITS JPO) as the Connected Vehicle Data and Weather Program Manager. This is an opportunity to w

ork on one of the most exciting multimodal programs at the U.S. Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT).  Located at the U.S. DOT headquarters in Washington, DC, the ITS-JPO manages, coordinates and supports research programs focused on applying advanced technologies to transform the performance of our Nation’s surface transportation system.

The vacancy announcement closes on Wednesday, March 16, 2011

We are seeking a talented transportation leader who can work with all levels of the ITS-JPO staff, high-ranking officials, and others outside the agency to explore the innovative methods of data collection and use of advanced data applications in the transportation environment.  A self-starter with expert knowledge of data capture and proven program management principles is a must.  Strong coordination and leadership capabilities are needed to be successful in this important role.  A mix of strong creativity combined with institutional and technical knowledge is a must.  Ability to identify strategic program needs and develop objectives based on Administration and U.S. DOT policy, Congressional direction, and knowledge gained through the national ITS program planning process is required.

The ITS-JPO Connected Vehicle Data and Weather Program Manager will manage multimodal programs such as congestion relief, road weather management, and data capture and data management applications to provide technical leadership for state-of-practice and state-of-the-art data collection methods for continuous improvement of our nation’s surface transportation system.

If you know someone interested in this Washington, DC based position that has the experience and proven results in the above requested areas, please encourage them to apply under the attached vacancy announcement.  We are looking for a diverse pool of qualified candidates.

Please keep in mind that the new hiring reforms recently announced by President Obama will shorten the hiring timeline and will eliminate essay-style questions during the initial application submission. Therefore please spread the word about this exciting opportunity and encourage anyone interested to apply quickly.

To review the job qualifications and to apply, please see the vacancy announcement at USAjobs, direct link:

FHWA.JPO-2011-0001 – Open to Current Federal and Former Federal Status Employees: (Federal employees are encouraged to apply under this announcement number to maximize consideration).

FHWA.JPO-2011-0002 – Open to all U.S. Citizens

Wednesday, March 2, 2011 – ISSN 1529-1057

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Solve your corridor congestion and signal timing challenges with InSync adaptive traffic control

Free webinar with the facts on adaptive traffic control results.  Visit http://rhythmtraffic.com/facts

For decades, public works departments and traffic engineers struggled to reduce congestion, delay, stops and accidents on busy arterial roadways.  Now state and local agencies across the U.S. are running the InSync adaptive traffic control solution on dozens of corridors and realizing unprecedented benefits.  It is common to see stop reductions of 90%, delay reductions of 75%, travel time reductions of 40%, and significant reductions in fuel usage and emissions.

Join us for an information-packed webinar to see how adaptive traffic control can benefit your roadways and communities.  In only a few minutes you will see and hear before-and-after results reported by independent engineering firms, experiences of traffic professionals who installed InSync and other systems, details on the artificial intelligence and hardware components which make up the InSync system and more.  Get the facts at http://rhythmtraffic.com/facts

AVIATION

1) Air Traffic Control System is ‘Not Safe,’ Say UK Controllers

Link to article on ZDNet UK:

http://www.zdnet.co.uk/news/security-threats/2011/03/02/air-traffic-control-system-is-not-safe-say-uk-controllers-40091970/

CAMERAS

2) Red Light Cameras Put States and Locals at Odds

Link to article in Government Technology:

http://www.govtech.com/public-safety/Red-Light-Cameras-Put-States-and-Locals-at-Odds.html

GPS / NAVIGATION

3) Expert: China to Establish Global Satellite Navigation System by 2020

Link to Xinhua article:

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english2010/china/2011-03/02/c_13757203.htm

4) Satellite Navigation a Political Act

Link to article in GPS World:

http://www.gpsworld.com/gnss-system/galileo/news/satellite-navigation-a-political-act-11149

OTHER

5) ITS Bill Being Introduced in US House

Bill would establish several competitively selected communities to serve as model deployment sites for the large-scale integration of 21^st century technology to solve critical transportation challenges.

Link to bill:

http://www.itsa.org/itsa/files/pdf/092910%20Smart%20Technologies%20for%20Communities%20Act.pdf

PUBLIC INFORMATION / EDUCATION

6) NASA Hosts ‘Tweetups’ to Spread the Word About Its Missions

Link to article on Nextgov:

http://www.nextgov.com/nextgov/ng_20110301_9643.php

7) Transportation Transparency Act Passes Oklahoma House

Bill increases public scrutiny of state road revenue.

Link to article in the Pauls Valley Daily Democrat:

http://paulsvalleydailydemocrat.com/statenews/x651388601/Transportation-Transparency-Act-Passes-House

8) ‘On the Go with Ray LaHood’ Promises Your Lively Questions, My Honest Answers

Link to US DOT’s Fast Lane blog:

http://fastlane.dot.gov/2011/03/on-the-go-with-ray-lahood-promises-lively-questions-honest-answers.html

SAFETY / SECURITY

9) Israeli iPhone App Reports ‘Bad Drivers’

Link to article from The Media Line:

http://www.jpost.com/Sci-Tech/Article.aspx?id=209253

TRANSIT

10) Twin Cities’ Metro Transit Upgrades Its Mobile Site

Link to article from The Legal Ledger:

http://www.masstransitmag.com/publication/article.jsp?siteSection=3&id=13812

11) The Negative Side of Social Media: What to Expect

Link to article in Mass Transit:

http://www.masstransitmag.com/publication/article.jsp?siteSection=5&id=13732

TRAVELER INFORMATION / TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

12) New York City Subway Information Network is Over Budget, Almost Done and Already Obsolete

Link to article in the Daily News:

http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/2011/03/02/2011-03-02_subway_information_network_is_overbudget_almost_done_and_already_obsolete.html

13) Las Vegas Speedway Officials: Race Weekend Traffic to be Better than Past Years

Signs, cones and personnel will be supplemented by app with travel and parking information.

Link to article in the Las Vegas Sun:

http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2011/mar/02/speedway-officials/

14) Collaboration on Traffic Information Across National Borders

Link to article on Viasuisse:

http://www.viasuisse.ch/Aktuell/10_jahre_viasuisse.aspx

15) Transport is Key in Swedish Science Hub.

A center of information and communications technology known as Kista Science City in Stockholm, has focused on intelligent transportation to fuel its success.

Link to article in Next American City:

http://americancity.org/buzz/entry/2918/

VEHICLES

16) Connected Cars Speed Into the Future

Link to article on swissinfo.ch:

http://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/science_technology/Connected_cars_speed_into_the_future.html?cid=29626032

17) Microsoft Wants to be in Your Car

Link to article on Internet Evolution:

http://www.internetevolution.com/author.asp?section_id=1047&doc_id=204463

News Releases

1) Union Pacific Billboard Campaign Reminds Truckers to Stop for Trains

2) Avego Survey Reveals Untapped Consumer Demand for Carpooling to Address Commuting Issues

3) Econolite Canada to Distribute TrafficCast BlueTOAD

4) Winnipeg Transit Introduces New External Route Destination Announcement System

5) CDM and Wilbur Smith Associates Combine

6) TriMet Tests Audible Pedestrian Warning System

7) World First from Saab: Saab IQon – Open Innovation in Car Infotainment

8) TravelCenters of America Offers App for Truckers

9) New inthinc Portal Scores Commercial Drivers in Real-Time, Recognizes Safe Behavior

10) RouteMatch Software Acquires RouteShout

Upcoming Events

Webcast: Leveraging Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC) Software for Public Transportation – March 3

https://oracleevents.webex.com/oracleevents/j.php?ED=152086057&RG=1&UID=0&RT=MiM0

Today in Transportation History

1971 **40^th anniversary** The Canadian Transport Commission ordered the Canadian National to continue operating the Super Continental.

http://trainoftheweek.blogspot.com/2011/01/super-continental.html

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

The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically Monday through Friday.

To subscribe (for free) or unsubscribe, please contact me at bernie@bwcommunications.net.

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

Become a TCN fan on Facebook!

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

© 2011 Bernie Wagenblast  www.bwcommunications.net

Tuesday, March 1, 2011 – ISSN 1529-1057

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U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood and Former Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell to Address IBTTA Legislative Conference – March 7-8, Washington, DC

The interest in new business approaches from all-electronic tolling to distance-based road charging will require new relationships and collaboration as well as new legislative and regulatory support.  Attend IBTTA’s Legislative Conference to better understand and influence federal and state policymaking.  Delegates will have the opportunity to visit with members of Congress during a reception at the U.S. Capitol.  Visit www.IBTTA.org to view the program and register. To view IBTTA’s entire 2011 Education Series, click here.

AVIATION

1) Turkish Civil Aviation Authority Seeks Better English Skills for Pilots and Air Traffic Controllers

Link to article in the Hürriyet Daily News:

http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/n.php?n=civil-aviation-authority-seeks-to-improve-personnel8217s-language-skills-2011-03-01

2) Inside the Busy, Stressful World of Air Traffic Control

Link to article in The Atlantic:

http://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2011/02/inside-the-busy-stressful-world-of-air-traffic-control/71776/

3) Air Traffic Control: How It Started and Where It’s Headed

Link to article on AOL Travel:

http://news.travel.aol.com/2011/03/01/air-traffic-control-how-it-started-and-where-its-headed/

4) Airport Resilience and Preparedness

Airports and airlines need to prepare for high-stress situations, including having a communications plan.

Link to blog on Reuters:

http://blogs.reuters.com/business-traveller/2011/02/28/airport-resilience-and-preparedness/

CARTOGRAPHY

5) Google Creeps Deeper with Street View Trikes

Link to column and video on CNET News:

http://news.cnet.com/8301-17852_3-20037570-71.html

GPS / NAVIGATION

6) Live Traffic Updates Coming to iGo My Way

Link to article in Macworld:

http://www.macworld.com/article/158231/2011/03/igomyway.html

OTHER

7) Florida DOT’s SunGuide Disseminator – March 2011

Link to newsletter:

http://www.dot.state.fl.us/TrafficOperations/Newsletters/2011/2011-003-Mar.pdf

PUBLIC INFORMATION / EDUCATION

8) Salem, Oregon Seeks Better Communication Tools

Graduate students look for ways to increase civic engagement.

Link to article in the Statesman Journal:

http://www.statesmanjournal.com/article/20110301/NEWS/103010331/1001/stayton/Salem-seeks-better-communication-tools

9) Improving US DOT Project Delivery and Planning Through Outreach and Guidance to Tribes

Link to article in Successes in Stewardship:

http://environment.fhwa.dot.gov/strmlng/newsletters/mar11nl.asp

TRANSIT

10) Transgender Riders Want SEPTA to Drop Gender Designation on Passes

Link to article in The Philadelphia Inquirer:

http://articles.philly.com/2011-02-28/news/28637695_1_septa-bus-jerri-williams-major-transit-agencies

VEHICLES

11) Citroën Launches Door-to-Door Travel Search Web Site

Link to article on Tnooz:

http://www.tnooz.com/2011/03/01/news/car-maker-launches-door-to-door-travel-search-website

News Releases

1) ITS America Announces Call for Entries for 2011 Best of ITS Awards

2) Work Zone Safety Clearinghouse Launches Ad Campaign and Unveils New Educational Resources

3) Test Area for Intelligent Transport in Finland to be Built in Tampere

4) Ford Developers Turn Metro Detroit Into Europe to Test European Version of Sync 911 Assist

5) ITIS Delivers Anonymized Signal Data from Over 17 Million Mobile Devices for Navigation Systems in Germany

6) Miami-Dade Transit to Expand Free Wireless Service

7) Variable Speed Limit System to Begin on M4 in Wales

Upcoming Events

Shipping 2011 – March 21-23 – Stamford, Connecticut

http://shipping2011.com/

Today in Transportation History

1936 **75^th anniversary** A strike began on the ocean liner, SS California.  The strike led to the end of the International Seamen’s Union and the creation of the National Maritime Union.

http://www.moore-mccormack.com/images/CaliforniainPanamaCanal.jpg

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

The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically Monday through Friday.

To subscribe (for free) or unsubscribe, please contact me at bernie@bwcommunications.net.

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

Become a TCN fan on Facebook!

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

© 2011 Bernie Wagenblast  www.bwcommunications.net