The North/West Passage Corridor, which includes states along I-94 and I-90 from Wisconsin to Washington, is in its second year as Transportation Pooled Fund (TPF) Study. The Corridor coalition is now soliciting participation in Phase II of the TPF Study, the focus of which is the integration on traveler information across state borders. Today in the North/West Passage Corridor states (North Dakota, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Washington, Idaho, Wyoming, Montana, and South Dakota) there are numerous systems for collecting, processing, and integrating transportation data, and for delivering the information to users. However, this information is not easily shared across state borders. Through their participation in the Pooled Fund Study, North Dakota, Minnesota, and Wisconsin sponsored the development of the North/West Passage Phase I projects, which were selected and approved by the membership. The initial focus of Phase I projects was on the I-94 Corridor within the three funding states. It is envisioned that commitment from other states will expand the geographic focus of Phase II. Phase I projects, which started in March 2004, included development of an Interface Control Document to facilitate the exchange of traveler information data between North Dakota and Minnesota for delivery via each states 511 traveler information service. Also included is the development of plans for integrating Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) operations and bridge deck anti-icing systems across state lines in preparation for a planned system deployment. Focus was also placed on the development of a website for communication of North/West Passage information. For additional information on Phase I projects please visit: http://www.nwpassage.info.

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 utilize effective methods for sharing, coordinating, and integrating traveler information across state borders and to influence ongoing standards development.

The North/West Passage TPF study is pursuing issues and proposed projects that were identified and selected by the membership for Phase II. This membership driven process is intended to ensure that members benefit from their investment in the North/West Passage TPF study. The objective of Phase II of the North/West Passage TPF Study Projects is to develop a North/West Passage ITS Integrated Corridor Strategic Plan. The key elements of this plan are; · Development of a corridor architecture with a focus on center-to-center data sharing across state borders, · Inventory of communication infrastructure for the entire corridor, · Development of a coordinated concept of operations for the sharing of traveler information across state borders. Suggested projects for the corridor to pursue will be identified. For your information, the Phase II Work Plan approved by the membership is included in the Study Documents section below.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has taken the initial lead in the development of the coalition. We strongly encourage all states along the corridor to participate in Phase II. The estimated cost of the ITS Integrated Corridor Strategic Plan is $200,000. The recommended contribution for each state is $25,000 per year. We are also encouraging states to make a two-year commitment. To join the North/West Passage TPF Study, complete the online commitment form at www.pooledfund.org. 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 online commitment form is encouraged to enable all states to participate in the selection of projects to be initiated in FY 2005. For additional information on joining the North/West Passage TPF Study, contact Mark Nelson, 651-284-3484 mark.nelson@dot.state.mn.us