Developing an active traffic management strategy
CDM Smith researched U.S. and European systems, analyzing successes and failures to guide the decision-making process.
Priorities
Rebuilding a major corridor for a smarter future
The Tollway needed a new approach to upgrade its aging Jane Addams Memorial Tollway. With help from CDM Smith, the Tollway began to study global active traffic management systems, analyze driver behavior and shape a strategy to enhance safety, improve mobility and prepare for future vehicle technologies.
Optimizing driver communication
The team used field tests to evaluate symbols, visibility and reaction times, developing displays that optimize clarity.
Deploying SmartRoad systems
Gantries, sensors, cameras and signs deliver real-time conditions, enabling faster responses and safer multimodal travel.
Preparing for future technologies
Fiber optics, power utilities and concrete footings built into the roadway provide flexibility for future connected systems.
SmartRoad began operating in 2017, bringing safer, more reliable travel to one of Illinois’ busiest corridors. Continuous data from sensors, weather stations and cameras now supports real-time operations and improved incident response. By integrating flexible infrastructure, the Tollway positioned I-90 for future mobility advances. “We knew the opportunity to rip up I-90 and put it back down wasn’t going to come along again soon,” said senior ITS engineer Jeff Hochmuth, “so we thought about all the ways we could prepare the road for the next 30 years.”
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