What is ITS?

The AZTech system uses a number of traffic control and traffic information technologies collectively known as Intelligent Transportation Systems, or ITS. These computer and communication tools provide real-time information to traffic control centers about traffic flow changes and emergency incidents, and enable these centers to adjust traffic signals and provide motorist information about roadway conditions via dynamic message signs.

Historically, governments have responded to heavy and recurring traffic congestion by building or expanding highway and street systems. But the costs to implement these public works projects are enormous, and time consuming as well. Implementing ITS tools for traffic management --- on the existing system --- can be one alternative. Using traffic sensors along highways and streets, connected to communication networks that are integrated into traffic control centers located throughout a region, traffic managers can permit motorists to move more quickly, safely, and efficiently through the existing transportation system. And the costs to design and install these automated traffic management tools are often a fraction of new construction.

AZTech is all about using the many tools of ITS to equip traffic managers with new traffic control strategies and, at the same time, benefit travelers with timely travel information. Traffic detectors, emergency notification and management systems, dynamic message signs, and closed circuit television systems all work together to make the benefit real. Whether sensing traffic congestion and instantly alerting oncoming motorists of alternate routes, or providing the communication integration across city boundaries in order to improve traffic flow, AZTech provides useful, up-to-the-minute traffic information for all citizens of the Phoenix metropolitan area.