UMass Transit at hub of traveler data project

The Transit Operations Facility at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst (UMass) will be the hub of the Regional Traveler Information Center (RTIC), a federally funded project that includes the participation of the Massachusetts Highway Department.

The RTIC will collect, analyze, and disseminate traffic, public transportation and tourism information for use by state and local agencies, private entities and the general public. It will also access bus route, schedule and related information provided by UMass Transit and parking conditions provided by UMass Parking Services.

In addition to housing the operation at its facility, Al Byam, general manager of UMass Transit, said his department will employ a project technician and have direct involvement with collecting and utilizing the data.

The initial focus of the RTIC’s operations will be on local highway corridors. Eventually, the RTIC will serve as the hub for coordinating and disseminating a broad range of traffic and travel information for all of western Massachusetts. The information will be disseminated via the Internet to the general public and also spot broadcast over UMass’ campus radio stations.

The RTIC will also be used by appropriate academic departments within UMass for ITS research and as a training opportunity for students who are being prepared to work in ITS.