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Delivering Freight Specific Traveler Information to Commercial Motor Vehicle Operations

• May 29, 2025

Research Description

Research Idea Description:

The research aims to identify methods of conveying freight-specific traveler information from public agencies to commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). It will investigate how agencies can effectively collect and convey messages about parking, slowdowns, construction, weather conditions, and other events to both independent operators and operators of dispatched vehicles. CMVs present unique challenges as operators are looking for regional or nationwide availability of data. Most CMVs are also independent operators or small fleets less than 10 trucks which limits their ability to invest in advanced technologies. The study will focus on identifying the most effective methods and technologies for delivering timely and relevant information to CMV operators, considering their unique needs and operational constraints. Currently, most CMV operators get their information primarily from crowd-sourced data sources, so agencies need a method of providing authoritative data.

Research Objectives:

● To analyze the current methods used by public agencies to communicate with CMVs. ● To identify what information would be of value to CMVs ● To identify the challenges and limitations in reaching CMV operators with important information. ● To develop a framework for public agencies to provide useful and actionable information to CMVs. ● To evaluate the effectiveness of different communication strategies and technologies in improving the safety and efficiency of CMV operations. ● To identify potential data sources. Key Components: ● Comparative analysis of communication methods for CMVs and private vehicles. ● Identification of best practices and innovative technologies for message delivery to CMVs. ● Stakeholder engagement to gather insights from public agencies, CMV operators, and technology providers. ● Development of a prototype communication framework tailored to the needs of CMV operators. ● Identify various case studies and successful projects, such as the Wyoming freight weather advisory system, and the various initiatives through private information providers such as DriveWyze. ● Note the distinction between informing large fleets with dispatch centers vs. informing independent operators. ● Address the challenge of getting data into CMV cabs without distracting operators, considering the many devices already present, and the prohibition of some dispatch companies against having a mobile phone nearby while operating. ● Explore the challenge of having consistent information across all states versus a subset of states. Expected Outcomes: ● Recommendations for public agencies on the most effective methods and technologies for advising CMV operators. ● Increased awareness among public agencies about the unique communication needs of CMV operators. ● Improved safety and operational efficiency for CMVs through better communication of important freight-specific traveler information.

Expected Outcomes:

● Enhanced ability of public agencies to provide timely and relevant information to CMV operators. ● Reduced incidents and delays caused by slowdowns, weather conditions, and other events. ● Improved collaboration between public agencies, CMV operators, and technology providers. ● Greater adoption of innovative communication technologies in the transportation sector.

Additional Supporting Information

Authored by Blake Hansen, PE, PTOE, PMP TRB ACP10 - Regional TSMO Data for Operations Subcommittee Co-Sponsored by TRB ACP-20 Freeway Operations

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Submitted By

Thomas Jacobs

Center for Advanced Transportation Technology

301-405-7328

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