Portable Changeable Message Sign (PCMS) systems used in highway work zones are programmable supplementary traffic control devices that display messages composed of letters, symbols or both and provide information and instructions to the traveling public approaching work-zone activities. This paper discusses the impacts of these systems on motorists' behavior, as well as warrants and criteria for deployment. The paper also stresses the need to (a) develop a comprehensive standardized statewide database of messages and message abbreviations, (b) develop a comprehensive repository with information about the technology of the various components of the PCMS units, (c) coordinate PCMS units used in highway work zones with a corridor or regional advanced traffic measurement system (ATMS) system, and (d) maintain information about the use of PCMS units in a work-zone project and possibly integrate it with other relevant information in a management system. (A*)
Abstract