Presenter
Presented by Mr. Cohen
Recommendation
AFFIRMATIVE RECOMMENDATION
Title
Resolution authorizing the Director of General Services to enter into the appropriate agreement(s) with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (Penn DOT) to provide for the broadcast on the city's cable channel of televised views of traffic conditions in and around the city as a public service to commuters; and, to enhance the capabilities of the city's Emergency Operations Center to monitor traffic conditions during times of various emergencies and other events.
Body
WHEREAS, the Penn DOT's Engineering District 11-0's Traffic Management Center has in place over 40 cameras displaying real time views of various roadways throughout region, allowing for the observation of current traffic conditions and to respond to incidents from the PA Turnpike in Monroeville to the Airport on State Route 60 as well as points south and north of the city; and,
WHEREAS, from 5:00 A.M. until 8:00 PM. a Penn DOT Technician/Observer monitors traffic and responds to incidents - dispatching emergency response personnel, controlling electronic message signs for warnings or alternate routing and, broadcast of information on the state's Highway Advisory Radio System; and,
WHEREAS, broadcast quality cameras give accurate views of traffic conditions associated with highway congestion. The system is part of a $20 million investment in cameras, wiring, computer hardware and software along with message signs and advisory radio system; and,
WHEREAS, providing public access to this visual information on a daily basis would be of great benefit through a broadcast link with the City of Pittsburgh's Cable Channel. Beyond routine traffic information, the city's Emergency Operation Center can better manage responding police, fire and emergency medical services. It would also provide critical information in times of snow emergencies or large-scale evacuations of the downtown business ...
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