Dynamic Message Sign (DMS)

Variable Message Sign (VMS)

Changeable Message Sign (CMS)

Dynamic Message Sign (DMS)

General Description:

This family of signs can change the message that they display to reflect conditions or inform motorists of important information.  The signs can convey information about roadway conditions, alternate routes, construction activities, or any information that will assist motorists in making decisions.  It is common to place a series of signs within a region or corridor for improved traffic impacts.  Areas with low power may use Solar Power to supplement or completely run the sign.

 

Effects of Solution:

 

¨     Increase Passenger Throughput

¨     Increase Roadway Capacity

¨     Manage System Efficiency

¨     Reduce Local Demand

 

These signs are not solutions in themselves.  They require an information source such as Road Weather Information System (RWIS), Closed Circuit Television (CCTV), Environmental Sensing Stations (ESS), or any kind of Roadside Detection (RS-D) in order to be effective.

 

Examples of Implementation:

Gateway National Recreation Area

Billy G. Garrett, Assistant Superintendent

Lynn Pilgrim, Director of Planning and Professional Services

 

Cost/Financial Information:

Source: 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

 

Dynamic Message Sign

$47-117K 

$2.4-6K

 

Dynamic Message Sign Tower 

$25-120K

 

 

Dynamic Message Sign – Portable

$18-25K

$1.2-2K

 

The low capital cost for the DMS is for a smaller DMS installed along arterial.  The high capital cost is for a full matrix, LED, 3-line, walk-in DMS installed along a freeway.  These costs do not include installation.  DMS Tower costs include a low capital cost associated with a cantilever structure. The high capital cost is for a truss structure that spans across 3-4 lanes.  The portable DMS sign includes a trailer mounted DMS (3-line, 8" character display) and may include trailer, solar or diesel power.

 

Additional Resources:

Tennessee Department of Transportation Smartway: http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/tdotsmartway/dms.htm