Comprehensive Guide to the Use of IP-Based Video for Traffic Operations (0-5942-S)

This project summary report summarizes the research performed in Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Project 0-5942. Video is a critical component of traffic management centers (TMCs). Operators use video surveillance to monitor roadways, identify incidents, assist in operations, and support operational decisions. Overall, video deployments face challenges in integration, standards, functional sufficiency, sufficient quality, and cost efficiency. The objective of this research project was to develop a consistent and structured approach for video solutions including the definition of concepts, needs, requirements, technologies, testing, and ongoing operations. The research team developed a video solutions approach based on systems engineering. While the basic concepts of systems engineering provided a starting point, the modifications made by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to support intelligent transportation systems (ITS) deployments provided an extensive base of information for video deployments. Some modifications to the systems engineering process developed for ITS have been employed for this project. A guidebook and a supplemental CD-ROM document this research and provide a consistent and systematic standards-based process for developing and assessing digital video solutions and deployments.