Governments begin next phase of ITS border project

WINDSOR, Ont. (Sept. 22, 2004) – The governments of Canada and Ontario have selected Delcan Corp. to research Intelligent Transportation Systems technology to improve traffic flow and reduce gridlock leading to border crossings between Ontario and the U.S.

The initiative stems from the Let’s Get Windsor-Essex Moving strategy announced this past spring, but will be applicable at other border crossings in Ontario.

A team of consultants will evaluate existing technology and to determine how it can best be used to keep drivers informed and better manage traffic during busy travel times. Such technologies include cameras to monitor traffic, weather and road conditions. The system also includes electronic sensors and detectors embedded in the roadway to gauge the speed of traffic. All of this information is passed along to drivers through real-time changeable message signs.

“Fifty million vehicles use Ontario-U.S. border crossings every day,” said Ontario Transportation Minister Harinder Takhar in a press release. “Almost $900 million dollars worth of goods move through our borders daily. Using technology to make our borders more efficient will benefit us all. It’s good for the economy, and it’s good for tourism.”

The 18-month project will cost approximately $1.3 million, to be shared equally by the federal and provincial governments. Federal funding for the project comes from the Border Infrastructure Fund. Regularly updated project information will be available to the public at: www.intelligentborder.ca.

Earlier this year, a company had begun field-testing high resolution cameras on the primary artery leading to and from the Ambassador Bridge.

Windsor-based Border Gateways Inc. stationed the cameras along Huron Church Road, Today’s Trucking reported. The camera system would gives us the company the ability to monitor and react to real-time traffic conditions on truck routes leading to the crossings, which would enable truck traffic controllers to determine if any impediments exist to traffic flow.