Highway Advisory Radio (HAR) is a communication tool that has been used since the late 1970s by government organizations to deliver public information over short ranges by radio. Systems typically consist of a transmitter, antenna, recording device and power. Most modern systems use control software and wireless communication options that allow messages to be recorded or activated remotely. HAR is often used by departments of transportation, in particular, to deliver information about road conditions, construction and other traffic conditions.
The overall intent of this project was to provide ENTERPRISE member states with guidance to help them better understand how they should pursue HAR technologies and approaches in the future. To accomplish this, the project goals of the project were defined as follows:
- Goal #1: To help members understand how HAR is being used by transportation agencies today;
- Goal #2: To help members understand the potential value of HAR; and
- Goal #3: To help members understand the current and potential future state of HAR technology practices.
The final document for this project presents a general background of HAR, a summary of HAR uses and value, as well as the state of HAR technology and operational practices. Information for this project was gathered through literature reviews and interviews with transportation agencies operating HAR and manufacturers of HAR systems.