The eSTORM System (Electronic Signals and Traffic Operations Response Management System) Implemented in Florida Contributed to a 10 to 20 Minute Savings in Peak Period Detour Route Travel Times During Hurricane Sally.
The Florida DOT Enhanced Their Existing Databases with Attribute Fields for Pictures and Emergency Status Allowing for Improved Response and Signal Control.
Florida, United States
eSTORM
Summary Information
Florida faces frequent hurricane threats. These hurricanes can damage coastal road infrastructure and lead to widespread power outages. Restoration efforts, which include fixing traffic signals, restoring bridges, and clearing debris, are critical for emergency response and recovery. District 3 of Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) which experienced severe damage from Hurricane Michael in 2018, recognized the need for more efficient tools to manage storm-related traffic issues. The objective of this project was to demonstrate how FDOT enhanced severe storm and hurricane response through use of an Electronic Signals and Traffic Operations Response Management System (eSTORM) developed for the 2020 hurricane season.
METHODOLOGY
The eSTORM system included an enhanced statewide traffic signal database and a mobile data collection app, both using the latest technology to improve emergency and traffic management. The database featured status updates and real-time dashboards for better monitoring and response by emergency managers. Additionally, the mobile app allowed for immediate data entry on signal status and damage, which was crucial for quick repair and recovery operations.
In preparation for and in response to Hurricane Sally, which hit the Florida Gulf Coast on September 16, 2020, as a Category 2 storm, District 3 activated a team who used the eSTORM mobile app to gather and store information about the damage done by the storm. US Route 98 had a bridge damaged which needed to be closed which pushed traffic onto a detour route.
FINDINGS
- Travel times on the US 98 detour route were reduced by 20 minutes in the AM peak and 10 minutes in the PM peak after implementation of eSTORM and other transportation system management and operation strategies.
- About 450 traffic signals were evaluated within 48 hours after the storm. Of which, 69 were found damaged. With this information, several agencies worked together to implement temporary signals, timing adjustments, channelization, and CCTVs to further monitor the situation.
- Due to its successful implementation, this tool was scaled up to be active in every FDOT district.
