If you drive in northeastern Illinois, chances are that you take advantage of I-Pass to avoid toll plaza delays. The 2009 Illinois Tollway annual report informs us that there are over 3.8 million transponders in circulation. Millions of drivers are using this popular technology to reach their destinations more quickly and safely each day. I-Pass is a prominent example of ITS, or Intelligent Transportation Systems.
CMAP promotes the use of ITS, including a wide range of technologies that improve the movement of people and goods. The goal of ITS deployment is to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the transportation system through such actions as increasing traveler safety and reducing congestion. These tools improve the operations and management of our existing transportation facilities.
Northeastern Illinois has been a leader in ITS applications for decades, and CMAP's Transportation Technology and Operations Coalition (TTOC) is a strong advocate for ITS applications. The coalition, also previously known as the Advanced Technology Task Force (ATTF), has prepared a number of useful resources (see below).