To best keep all 80 cameras across the PA Turnpike operating at 100 per cent efficiency, yet not burden the Turnpike users with lane closures and numerous hazards of bucket trucks on the travel way, PTC installed the camera lowering technology of MG Squared (MG2). Now, camera maintenance can take place at ground level in a much safer work environment for both technicians and drivers along the Turnpike.
The PTC recently approved a project to convert all of its roadside ITS cameras and lowering devices from analogue to ethernet. “This project is part of our comprehensive strategy to further improve safety, infrastructure and surveillance along our roadway,” explains Jeffrey Beard, PA Turnpike transportation technologies manager. Beard adds, “With the assistance and advice of the team at Signal Service, this fall we begin replacing 80 cameras along I-76 and I-476 utilising the latest MG2 CAT6a Ethernet Lowering Devices and Bosch Starlight Digital IP cameras.”
Pennsylvania headquartered Signal Service and particularly its ITS director, Steve Dowdall, have been a tremendous asset with their hands-on “in the field” approach, ensuring that PTC achieves its goals of safety, innovation and customer service.
When this upgrade is completed in 2021, the PTC operations centre will have unsurpassed video analytics with high-definition views of the Turnpike along with continued safe ground-level access to all of its cameras which will improve the safety of both PA Turnpike patrons and employees.
