The integration of weather information collection and dissemination facilities, based on open, non-proprietary communications standards, was a logical step towards deployment of better systems for cost-effective highway maintenance and improved traveler information.
This project developed common specifications and promoted practical solutions for integrating weather information from Road and Weather Information Stations (RWIS) monitors, aviation weather sensors and other available sources. Standard formats are utilized for information exchange, making information available to users via existing and emerging traveler information systems. The objectives of the project helped to address and resolve institutional issues which constitute barriers to the creation of the necessary public-public and public-private partnerships.
Specifically, the results of WRIC were as follows:
- Organized, support and follow-up on a user needs and partnering workshop which provided input to all the ENTERPRISE states’ programs;
- Coordinated with and built on related work in other states;
- Examined the quantity and quality of weather information provided by R/WIS and aviation weather systems, either installed or scheduled to be throughout Iowa, Colorado and Arizona;
- Assessed the transferability of data produced by these systems to highway maintenance and traveler information applications;
- Reviewed institutional issues among public and private agencies regarding the operation and dissemination of data from these systems;
- Worked with participating states in resolving issues and moving forward with compatible, integrated solutions; and
- Contributed to and supported the development and acceptance of protocol(s) for transmitting weather information between sensors and data fusion points, and between multiple collection and dissemination centers.
The WRIC project supported the state of Minnesota’s needs for procuring R/WIS vendors. In addition, standards development agencies were invited to participate, and the results were fed to the standards agencies actively working on standards development.
Project Duration: 1995-1996