Environmental Sensing Station (ESS)

General Description:

Environmental Sensing Station (ESS), also known as a weather station, consists of pavement temperature sensor, subsurface temperature sensor, precipitation sensor (type & rate), wind sensor (speed & direction), air temperature and humidity sensors, visibility sensors, and remote processing unit (RPU).  An ESS provides condition data and are basic components of larger Road Weather Information Systems.  Solar Power may be used in low power areas.

Effects of Solution:

¨ Increase Passenger Throughput

¨ Increase Roadway Capacity

¨ Manage System Efficiency

¨ Reduce Local Demand

Environmental Sensing Stations are not a solution in themselves.  They must be used in conjunction with variable message signs (VMS), highway advisory radio (HAR), or some other method of dissemination that allows motorists to receive the information. 

Examples of Implementation:

See the RWIS fact sheet for more information.   

Cost/Financial Information:

Source: United States Department of Transportation Intelligent Transportation Systems ITS Benefits, Costs and Lessons Learned Databases.  Available at http://www.benefitcost.its.dot.gov (Cost/financial information is estimated, and will vary based on size and scope of project, number of units, etc.)

	Capital Cost	Operating Cost
Environmental Sensing Station	$30-50K	$1.9-4.1K

The RPU must be replaced every 5 years at $6.4K and is not included in the operating cost. Operating and maintenance costs include calibration, equipment repairs, and replacement of damaged equipment.

Additional Resources:

http://www.benefitcost.its.dot.gov

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