ITS: A short history and perspective on the future

Abstract

This article describes the dynamic but short history of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS). ITS combines high technology and improvements in information systems, communication, sensors, and advanced mathematical methods with the conventional world of surface transportation infrastructure. In addition to technological and systems issues, there are a variety of institutional issues that must be carefully addressed. Substantial leadership will be required to implement ITS as an integrator of transportation, communications and intermodalism on a regional scale.