Technology Improving Travel

Two new federal-provincial agreements will use technology to make travel safer on Nova Scotia highways.

The agreements will almost double the number of camera- equipped road weather information systems (RWIS) stations in the province, and bring a state-of-the-art weigh station to a busy highway.

Transportation and Public Works Minister Ron Russell and Transport Canada Minister Jean Lapierre announced two Intelligent Transportation Systems projects today, Sept. 2, in Halifax.

"These technologies will improve road safety and travel efficiency," said Mr. Russell. "The highway cameras installed on the new RWIS stations will be especially welcome news to the many Nova Scotians who use them to check winter road conditions."

"This agreement for the acquisition and installation of road weather information systems stations is one of several that will establish a cross-Canada network of information systems providing critical weather information for road maintenance crews," said Mr. Lapierre. "Intelligent transportation systems can enhance the safety, security, efficiency and sustainability of Canada's transportation system."

Under the agreement, Nova Scotia will spend $346,500 for the acquisition and installation of up to 14 RWIS stations along the national highway system in the province. Another five RWIS stations will be installed on roads that are not a part of the national highway system at a cost to Nova Scotia of $132,000. This will bring the total number of RWIS stations to 39 from 20.

Each station will use sensors to measure atmospheric and pavement temperatures. The data obtained from these sensors allows provincial staff to make informed decisions on the best time to apply de-icing chemicals to the road and how much to use, leading to improved driving conditions and enhanced safety for all travellers.

Road weather information systems are automated weather reporting stations with special sensors embedded in and below the road, and on nearby towers. These systems collect detailed data on weather conditions at and near the road surface, which can assist weather forecasters in predicting icing conditions. The stations are mounted with web cameras that provide staff and travellers with real-time images of highways.

The second project involves the installation of weigh-in- motion (WIM) technology on TransCanada Highway 104 at the Auld's Cove weigh station. Weigh-in-motion technology automatically detects overweight vehicles and does not interrupt the flow of traffic. The system should result in improved safety by screening commercial vehicles for weight compliance.

The total cost of this project is $600,000, equally shared by the two levels of government.

Transport Canada has started, and in some cases concluded, funding negotiations with the provinces and territories for the development of a cross-Canada RWIS network. The department will pay up to 50 per cent of eligible costs for the acquisition and installation of the system components, subject to the successful conclusion of contribution agreements with the provinces and territories. Provinces and territories are expected to pay the balance, as well as the ongoing operation and maintenance costs. As a condition of funding, provinces are also required to enter into a data- sharing agreement with Environment Canada.