The North/West Passage Corridor, including I-94 and I-90 from Wisconsin to Washington, is soliciting participation in a new Transportation Pooled Fund (TPF) study focused on traveler information across state borders. Today in the North/West Passage Corridor states there are numerous systems for collecting transportation data, for processing and integrating the data, and for delivering the information to users. However, this information is not easily shared across state borders. The states of North Dakota, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Washington, Idaho, Wyoming, Montana, and South Dakota have been in contact since February 25, 2002 discussing the development of a coalition for the North/West Passage Corridor. Currently North Dakota, Minnesota and Wisconsin have secured funding for initiating the development of a North/West Passage TPF study.

The goals of this TPF study are to implement and evaluate integrated traveler information systems and coordinate maintenance operations across state borders. Using appropriate delivery systems, traveler information will be made available to internal staff and the traveling public via 511, dynamic message signs and other systems. The long-term vision of the North/West Passage Corridor states is to influence ongoing standards development; operate database systems that can transmit and receive multiple data streams; and, utilize effective methods for sharing, coordinating, and integrating traveler information across state borders.

The North/West Passage TPF study will pursue issues and proposed projects that are identified and selected by the membership. The memebership will meet annually to complete the process of selecting new projects and conduct periodic telephone conferences to monitor the status of the projects. This membership driven process is intended to ensure that members benefit from their investment in the North/West Passage TPF study. Base on initial commitment from North Dakota, Minnesota and Wisconsin, a Preliminary Work Plan has been developed. The Preleiminary Work Plan focuses on integrating traveler information and coordinating maintenance operations among the three states. However, it is envisioned that commitment from other states will expand the Preliminary Work Plan across additional state boundaries.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has taken the initial lead in the development of the coalition. Additional agencies interested in joining the North/West Passage TPF study should have the appropriate personnel complete the online commitment form. State Departments of Transportation and others may become participants at any time during the year by committing funds to the North/West Passage TPF study. Early submission of the on-line commitment form is encouraged to enable participation in the process to identify and select projects to be initiated in FY 2004. For additional information on joining the North/West Passage TPF Study, contact Ginny Crowson at 651-284-3454, or ginny.crowson@dot.state.mn.us.