BROOKINGS, S.D. - June 23, 2005 – (Nasdaq - DAKT) The Lincoln Tunnel and Holland Tunnel, operated by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, are two of the most important transportation links in the world. According to the authority, each tunnel connects New Jersey and Manhattan, and combined they generate traffic volumes exceeding 70 million vehicles a year.
The installation of phase I of the Lincoln Tunnel and Holland Tunnel ITS project is nearly complete. The project is necessary for enhanced traffic management at both the Lincoln Tunnel and Holland Tunnel. During the first phase, 25 Daktronics Vanguard® VF-1350 variable message signs (VMS) with either 12-inch or 18-inch character heights will be installed at each of the tunnel’s entrances and exits.
This project includes many firsts for the Daktronics ITS team. For the controller team, led by Todd Smetana, this is the first project to include new VFC-3000 sign controllers and local control panels. This is also the first installation of the newly designed Vanguard VF-1300 series front-access VMS, which use 20mm center-to-center pixels. According to Daktronics Mechanical Engineer Kory Kludt, the front and back sheets of these signs were attached using a structural adhesive rather than traditional seam welding. For smaller sign units this method achieves tighter mechanical tolerance and higher quality than continuous seam welding.
The construction delivery method was design-build and is a 28-month joint venture contract led by Transdyn Controls of Duluth, Ga. The ITS project includes the new control software and communication systems, sensors and electronic signs. Software at the Lincoln Tunnel and Holland Tunnel monitors traffic and roadway conditions and provides real-time traffic control and motorist advisories. Variable message signs advise motorists on travel, safety conditions, lane closures, amber alerts and travel times.
