Frequently Asked Questions Regarding VDOT CCTV Cameras
- When will traffic cameras for the various bridge tunnels be accessible
on the internet?
VDOT has implemented an alternative technology solution that
enables us to access area tunnel traffic cameras through the
Department's internal communications network. With the installation of
new hardware, select traffic cameras from the Downtown and the Monitor
Merrimac Memorial Bridge Tunnels should be available on the internet in
August, 99. This alternative method made it possible to bring traffic
cameras for the Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel online prior to the 1999
Memorial Day Weekend. The availability of these bridge tunnel images is
occurring a year to year and half earlier than projected.
- What is the Smart Traffic Center of Hampton Roads?
The Smart Traffic Center (STC) is the Virginia Department of
Transportation's (VDOT) high-tech, customer service approach to regional
freeway traffic management and communications. The goal of the STC is
to use technology to improve motorist safety & convenience, reduce area
traffic congestion and decrease motorist travel time in the Hampton
Roads area.
The Freeway Traffic Management System installed at STC consists
of an extensive computer controlled, fiber-optic based communications
and control network installed along 19 miles of the area freeways (I-64,
-264 and I-564), 38 closed circuit television cameras, over 60 dynamic
message signs strategically positioned across the entire Hampton Roads
region, Wide-Area Highway Advisory Radio System (HARS), and Freeway
Incident Response Teams patrolling over 70 miles of interstate in the
region. From Inside the STC itself, experienced Traffic Controllers
monitor the cameras, dispatch FIRT crews for roadside assistance to
stranded motorist and to assist State Police at accident scenes, change
messages on the dynamic message signs to reflect current conditions, and
update broadcasts on the AM 610 HARS.
To learn more about VDOT's Smart Traffic Centers and its Smart
Travel Program: http://www.vdot.state.va.us/smart/smart.html
- What are the cameras on the freeway used for?
Traffic management. The cameras are monitored 24 hours a day/7 days a week/365 days a year at the Smart Traffic Center (STC) in Virginia Beach, VA. Traffic controllers are able to view any particular traffic situation, whether it be an accident, heavy traffic, or a disabled vehicle in the roadway, assess the scene and then aid in providing appropriate assistance.
- How can I use this new service to benefit my commute?
The ability to visualize real-time highway traffic conditions BEFORE heading out the door offers immeasurable benefits. Perhaps one of the greatest is being able to identify real-time conditions that exist along the route you, as a commuter, are going to take. By viewing camera images that are specific to your destination, you will be able to make a conscious choice in navigating the route.
- How many cameras are there?
There are 40 viewable camera images on-line at this time. 38
are currently located long 19 miles of freeway in Southside Hampton
Roads along I-64(Bay Avenue, Norfolk to Indian River Road, Virginia
Beach), I-264 (Military Highway, Norfolk to Rosemont Road, Virginia
Beach), and I-564 (HOV entrance to Terminal Boulevard, Norfolk). The
cameras are located approximately 1/2 miles apart so that STC traffic
controllers can assess incidents within camera ranges from various
angles. Camera proximity also helps when assessing any resulting
traffic tie-ups. In addition, there are 2 cameras that monitor traffic
flow at the Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel. These cameras are located
approximately 1/2 mile from the east and westbound tunnel entrances for
optimum viewing of traffic approaching the I-64 tunnels.
- What computer capabilities are required to view these traffic camera images?
Any computer with an Internet browser (ie: Netscape Navigator or MS Internet Explorer), capable of downloading and viewing images. Although a 14.4 baud (Kbps) modem will work, we recommend a minimum 28.8 baud (28.8 Kbps) modem.
- Am I able to view camera images from a previous date?
Sorry, we do not archive any of the images from the cameras.
- During what hours of the day/night can I access these camera images?
At the Smart Traffic Center of Hampton Roads (STC), we monitor the CCTV images 24 hours a day/7 days a week/365 days per year. Therefore, notwithstanding severe conditions that compromise electricity to and from the cameras, you should be able to access the images any time of day or night.
- How can I tell in what direction the camera is pointed?
At first sight, it's not always easy to determine camera
direction. It takes time to get acclimated to the high perspective of
the tower mounted cameras. STC's traffic controllers move the cameras to
monitor traffic, access incidents and reported incidents, as necessary.
Current cameras do not have compasses built-in and can not
automatically identify camera direction. With the expansion of the
Traffic Management System underway, VDOT is evaluating the purchase of
more sophisticated cameras that can.
In the meanwhile, here's a hint from STC staff members, take
note of which way the HOV lanes are traveling - it's westbound in the
morning and eastbound in the afternoon (weekdays). This will be helpful
on I-64 segment but it's a bit trickier on I-264 HOV Diamond lanes. Try
it, see how you do.
- When can we expect additional camera coverage?
Phase II expansion of the Traffic Management System (TMS) has begun. There will be 80 additional cameras raised over 31 miles of interstate by the summer of the year 2000. Again, when complete, there will be over 275 cameras located along 113 miles of interstate on the Southside and Peninsula.
- Are the camera views used in law enforcement?
No, they are not. Our controllers position the camera view to a point of assessment, not surveillance. Most of the time traffic is moving, making it impossible to view the license plate of a vehicle from any one particular camera, as image resolution (clarity) does not allow for collection of specific information on a moving vehicle. Again, our mission is to monitor general traffic flow.
- Do these cameras only reflect traffic conditions?
Yes. The purpose of the cameras along our highway system is for traffic management. We are committed to Keep Virginia Moving!
- How can I get more information about the Traffic Management System (TMS)?
Located at 970 Reon Drive in Virginia Beach, the Smart Traffic Center of Hampton Roads offers tours. Call 757 424-9903 and ask to speak with one of our Public Relations Technicians. The PR staff is available for outside presentations to any group interested in learning about how Intelligent Transportation System technologies will influence future driving behaviors.
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