5.2.3 Power

“Allocate Ample Resources for the Restoration of Traffic Signals and Other Communications Devices – A plan that prioritizes restoration activities, with available staff resources and placement of backup generators where they are most needed, would assist in this process. Representatives of the Michigan Department of Transportation and the Road Commission for Oakland County mentioned the significant amount of time involved in ensuring that when power was restored, signals were actually working properly. Rolling blackouts also caused signals to be re-timed more than once.”
Effects of Catastrophic Events on Transportation System Management and Operations: August 2003 Northeast Blackout Great Lakes Region
“Establish Reliable Backup Power to Maintain Normal ITS Functions – The agencies that used advanced technologies during the blackout had acquired independent power sources to support their equipment. Generators provided power and a holdover dialup modem filled in when the Internet service provider connection was lost.”
Effects of Catastrophic Events on Transportation System Management and Operations: August 2003 Northeast Blackout Great Lakes Region
“Provide Power to ITS Equipment at Both the Traffic Management Center and in the Field – The New York City Department of Transportation is looking at prioritizing critical intersections and installing backup capacity to the signals.”
Effects of Catastrophic Events on Transportation System Management and Operations: August 2003 Northeast Blackout New York City

February 7, 2006
Publication #FHWA–HOP-08-015