About ITS

According to the U.S. DOT, intelligent transportation systems represent the next step in the evolution of the nation's transportation system. As information technology and advances in electronics continue to revolutionize all aspects of our modern-day world, from our homes and offices to our schools and even recreation, they also are being applied to our transportation network.

Our transportation systems suffer from ever-increasing demands. Motorists will have to travel smarter. Crashes and congestion can result in heavy tolls on productivity and resources. Integrating ITS technologies into our transportation systems enables people and goods to move more efficiently and safely. ITS technology can also be used to improve and manage how transportation providers, such as government, transit agencies and private haulers, offer services to the public.

ITS technology can be applied to the vast transportation infrastructure of highways, streets and bridges, as well as to a growing number of vehicles. Intelligent infrastructure is the system of cameras, sensors, dynamic message signs (DMS) and traveler information systems such as 511 and highway advisory radio (HAR).  Intelligent vehicles complement the ITS infrastructure by focusing on safety and information systems for cars, trucks, buses, and trains. The Iowa DOT programs and coordinates ITS projects through the Bureau of Research & Technology. Projects are funded primarily through the U.S. DOT’s Congestion Management & Air Quality (CMAQ) program