Each year, more than 100 million vehicles travel the George Washington Bridge, making it the busiest motor vehicle bridge in the world. The double-decked suspension bridge stands above the Hudson River and is a vital link for the region. Michael Baker prepared engineering drawings, specifications and construction cost estimates for the installation of more than 300 intelligent transportation system (ITS) devices along the 4,760-foot bridge and over 10 miles of the regional highway network.
The scope of the project included the removal, replacement and installation of new field devices including dynamic message signs, variable speed limit signs, roadway weather information systems, travel time readers, vehicle detection systems, a weigh-in-motion system, lane use control signals, CCTV cameras, and static guide signs. In addition, Michel Baker designed a new Operations Control Center to provide 24/7 operations for traffic management, safety, and security functions. These improvements will allow for the remote monitoring of traffic conditions and the dissemination of regional traveler information to motorists and transportation system operators
Leveraging various ITS solutions for a crossing as busy as the George Washington Bridge not only maximizes throughput and minimizes travel time for travelers but also helps to improve their safety.