Topic split from ICC Intercounty Connector thread after a suggestion that the road use variable speed limits.
CPZ, this is going a bit off topic, but I-80 between Cheyenne and Laramie features variable speed limit signs.
Quote from: Zmapper on August 11, 2012, 03:46:23 PM
CPZ, this is going a bit off topic, but I-80 between Cheyenne and Laramie features variable speed limit signs.
Thank you. Never been in Wyoming (though I have flown over it a few times). Would love to drive there sometime.
Quote from: Zmapper on August 11, 2012, 03:46:23 PM
CPZ, this is going a bit off topic, but I-80 between Cheyenne and Laramie features variable speed limit signs.
I-255/I-270 in Missouri have them as well.
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm6.staticflickr.com%2F5309%2F5792173934_1a8fe68d71.jpg&hash=30b9a062e7b6b878d6c924668c0f6c46138b1ed7)
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm3.staticflickr.com%2F2289%2F5791645645_ccc0af662d.jpg&hash=625906016fbdec6cf87d77aa10774e755b2a5e43)
Quote from: hbelkins on August 11, 2012, 11:15:47 PM
I-255/I-270 in Missouri have them as well.
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm6.staticflickr.com%2F5309%2F5792173934_1a8fe68d71.jpg&hash=30b9a062e7b6b878d6c924668c0f6c46138b1ed7)
Thanks for sharing that.
I see you caught a shot of the actual variable speed limit sign in the background of your image from I-270. Looks pretty legible to me (perhaps a
little better than the speed limit signs on the New Jersey Turnpike).
I've been to Laramie on a football trip back in 2007, but we drove up US-287 instead of the Interstate. No variable limits on that route.
Apart from a number of bridges, tunnels, etc., I know that I-495 in Delaware has variable limits (I believe the only usual change is between 65 and 55 dependent on air quality), and NHDOT recently installed some awesome variable speed limit signs around Manchester, NH, on NH 101, I-93, and I-293. Looking at them straight on, you can barely tell they're not a standard speed limit sign. Very high-resolution with black numbers on a white background, and no border around the variable part. Seamless transition to the rest of the sign. Do not have any pics though, unfortunately.
Quote from: deathtopumpkins on August 13, 2012, 11:09:37 AM
Apart from a number of bridges, tunnels, etc., I know that I-495 in Delaware has variable limits (I believe the only usual change is between 65 and 55 dependent on air quality), and NHDOT recently installed some awesome variable speed limit signs around Manchester, NH, on NH 101, I-93, and I-293. Looking at them straight on, you can barely tell they're not a standard speed limit sign. Very high-resolution with black numbers on a white background, and no border around the variable part. Seamless transition to the rest of the sign. Do not have any pics though, unfortunately.
I have not driven on I-495 in Delaware for quite some time, but will look for them the next time I am up that way.
The New Jersey Turnpike's variable speed limit signs are not bad (though I wish New Jersey's lawmakers would allow the Turnpike Authority to set the signs to display a speed limit of 70 or even 75 MPH ;-) ).
The New Hampshire speed limit signs sound intriguing. Have not been in the Granite State for many decades, though that's motivation for a roadgeeking trip up there.
Quote from: cpzilliacus on August 13, 2012, 11:44:03 AM
The New Jersey Turnpike's variable speed limit signs are not bad (though I wish New Jersey's lawmakers would allow the Turnpike Authority to set the signs to display a speed limit of 70 or even 75 MPH ;-) ).
this just reinforces my belief that congressdolts should not be in charge of engineering tasks like defining speed limits.
Just did some research and I found the signs that NHDOT used - they're Daktronics, of course: http://www.daktronics.com/ProductsServices/Products/ITS-Dynamic-Message-Signs/Variable-Speed-Limit-Signs/Pages/default.aspx
Turns out that they're the new variable signs used on the NJTP, and are also used by Florida in Orlando, and on the Throgs Neck Bridge in New York.
Here is one of Delaware's signs (from AARoads.com). I've seen these signs, including in bad weather, and they were very easy to read.
(https://www.aaroads.com/delaware/delaware200/i-495_sb_exit_002_05.jpg)
Those Daktronics signs "deathtopumpkins" linked look similar to the ones that were used on the Beltway in Alexandria a few years ago through the Wilson Bridge work zone. While they looked nice, I found that the numbers sometimes got a bit washed out in the afternoon sun; in that respect, the Delaware ones are easier to read, although uglier.
I don't have any pictures of the Beltway signs turned on and I don't have the time just now to try to find an image, but here's one when they weren't yet in use:
(https://encrypted-tbn3.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQf5LYkuMvGtHCGiO6p4hI7KEa4rE54LSclQT2t227GwAyw2OkGrg)
Quote from: deathtopumpkins on August 13, 2012, 11:51:14 AM
Just did some research and I found the signs that NHDOT used - they're Daktronics, of course: http://www.daktronics.com/ProductsServices/Products/ITS-Dynamic-Message-Signs/Variable-Speed-Limit-Signs/Pages/default.aspx
Turns out that they're the new variable signs used on the NJTP, and are also used by Florida in Orlando,
Specifically on I-4. Default is 50, I believe, and it's lowered when there's congestion.
NJDOT uses variable speed limits signs on the Pulaski Skyway of all places. They are ancient Solari style signs, most of which are broken or unreadable.
Quote from: cpzilliacus on August 12, 2012, 09:20:51 AM
Quote from: hbelkins on August 11, 2012, 11:15:47 PM
I-255/I-270 in Missouri have them as well.
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm6.staticflickr.com%2F5309%2F5792173934_1a8fe68d71.jpg&hash=30b9a062e7b6b878d6c924668c0f6c46138b1ed7)
Thanks for sharing that.
I see you caught a shot of the actual variable speed limit sign in the background of your image from I-270. Looks pretty legible to me (perhaps a little better than the speed limit signs on the New Jersey Turnpike).
Have you seen the new ones on the Turnpike? Full matrix LED, black numerals on a white background to full MUTCD size for an oversize sign.
Quote from: Steve on August 13, 2012, 10:43:07 PM
Have you seen the new ones on the Turnpike? Full matrix LED, black numerals on a white background to full MUTCD size for an oversize sign.
No, I don't think I have. I've not been on the Turnpike this year (yet).
The signs on I-80 (apparently they extend further to Rawlins and in a few other spots, but regular signs are used in the vicinity of the booming metropolis of Laramie) look like what 1995hoo posted above, where the numerical part of the sign is switched out for a VMS.
http://www.wyomingbusinessreport.com/article.asp?id=60907
MOD: Can you split this topic up?
Quote from: 1995hoo on August 13, 2012, 12:54:34 PM
Here is one of Delaware's signs (from AARoads.com). I've seen these signs, including in bad weather, and they were very easy to read.
(https://www.aaroads.com/delaware/delaware200/i-495_sb_exit_002_05.jpg)
Does DE 1 sport similar signs in the 65-mph zones as well? I think yes, but it's been a while since I've used that road.
Quote from: PHLBOS on August 14, 2012, 02:01:04 PM
Does DE 1 sport similar signs in the 65-mph zones as well? I think yes, but it's been a while since I've used that road.
Someone else will have to answer that one. I haven't been on DE-1 in at least 11 years.
Edited to add: I just remembered that I've seen the other sort of sign, the Daktronics one, somewhere else–US-27 between Pembroke Pines and Weston in Florida. My brother-in-law lives not far from that road and we used it multiple times when we visited in June. Every time we went through there the signs were posted at 50 mph, but a search of this forum found a picture of one set at 55. This is exactly the same sort of sign I mentioned earlier as having been used on the Beltway here in Virginia a few years ago (but not anymore).
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi244.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fgg36%2Fjcm9572%2F20120528%2520-%2520US27%2520Broward%2520Variable%2520Speed%2520Limit%2FDSCF0010.jpg&hash=c1a20c56e8c83b841aaf20594fe54cb3353d26f0)
Quote from: deathtopumpkins on August 13, 2012, 11:09:37 AM
Apart from a number of bridges, tunnels, etc., ... and NHDOT recently installed some awesome variable speed limit signs around Manchester, NH, on NH 101, I-93, and I-293. Looking at them straight on, you can barely tell they're not a standard speed limit sign. Very high-resolution with black numbers on a white background, and no border around the variable part. Seamless transition to the rest of the sign. Do not have any pics though, unfortunately.
Do you think you could grab some photos of these the next time you're in New Hampshire? I'd love to see them, and I'm not going up there anytime soon.
Quote from: 1995hoo on August 14, 2012, 02:23:40 PM
Quote from: PHLBOS on August 14, 2012, 02:01:04 PM
Does DE 1 sport similar signs in the 65-mph zones as well? I think yes, but it's been a while since I've used that road.
Someone else will have to answer that one. I haven't been on DE-1 in at least 11 years.
Edited to add: I just remembered that I've seen the other sort of sign, the Daktronics one, somewhere else–US-27 between Pembroke Pines and Weston in Florida. My brother-in-law lives not far from that road and we used it multiple times when we visited in June. Every time we went through there the signs were posted at 50 mph, but a search of this forum found a picture of one set at 55. This is exactly the same sort of sign I mentioned earlier as having been used on the Beltway here in Virginia a few years ago (but not anymore).
I clearly recall those signs from the Capital Beltway work near Va. 241 (Telegraph Road).
I took a look on the Daktronics Web site, and it doesn't say, but what happens with this sign if the electricity goes out? Does it display a speed limit even without a power source?
Quote from: cpzilliacus on August 14, 2012, 05:45:59 PM
I took a look on the Daktronics Web site, and it doesn't say, but what happens with this sign if the electricity goes out? Does it display a speed limit even without a power source?
I saw some of those signs in NH this spring as well but wasn't able to take pics; I don't remember noticing static regular signs like I-255 and 270 as pictured, although that would be a good idea. The "60 unless otherwise posted" seems to be a good fallback for a power outage. In a world without variable speed limit signs (which is most of the world), what would the speed limit be on this road? Post that on a static sign as the default if not overridden by a variable sign.
Quote from: cpzilliacus on August 14, 2012, 05:45:59 PM
Quote from: 1995hoo on August 14, 2012, 02:23:40 PM
Quote from: PHLBOS on August 14, 2012, 02:01:04 PM
Does DE 1 sport similar signs in the 65-mph zones as well? I think yes, but it's been a while since I've used that road.
Someone else will have to answer that one. I haven't been on DE-1 in at least 11 years.
Edited to add: I just remembered that I've seen the other sort of sign, the Daktronics one, somewhere else–US-27 between Pembroke Pines and Weston in Florida. My brother-in-law lives not far from that road and we used it multiple times when we visited in June. Every time we went through there the signs were posted at 50 mph, but a search of this forum found a picture of one set at 55. This is exactly the same sort of sign I mentioned earlier as having been used on the Beltway here in Virginia a few years ago (but not anymore).
I clearly recall those signs from the Capital Beltway work near Va. 241 (Telegraph Road).
I took a look on the Daktronics Web site, and it doesn't say, but what happens with this sign if the electricity goes out? Does it display a speed limit even without a power source?
No speed limit would be displayed, it's the same as a VMS. I would presume there's a form of backup power inside the device.
In Virginia, the default speed limit on an Interstate would be 55 mph because the statute authorizes speed limits up to 70 only where specifically posted after traffic and engineering studies. So that rule would have applied had the variable limit signs not worked.
In other states it'd obviously depend on their state laws and whether they have default speed limits that apply in the absence of signs. So in Texas, for example, if they used these sorts of signs and they went dark, an 85-mph limit wouldn't be the default because 85-mph limits are a special circumstance (I think that applies to 80-mph limits as well). Maine is similar in that the 75-mph limit is specifically restricted to one road.
I remember when I was in high school and the first portions of the Faurfax County Parkway in Virginia opened without having speed limit signs posted. Under state law that means 55. Back then the road didn't go anywhere and so was empty, so I just might have used it to see how fast the 1977 Ford Granada I drove back then would go (answer: I don't know, the speedometer maxed out at 85 mph). Obviously if I'd been pulled over I'd have been sunk because maximum speed limits in Virginia had been a subject on the knowledge test, so I knew very well that "Officer, there's no speed limit posted on this road" wouldn't have worked.
Quote from: PHLBOS on August 14, 2012, 02:01:04 PM
Does DE 1 sport similar signs in the 65-mph zones as well? I think yes, but it's been a while since I've used that road.
Just reviewed my photos from June and standard 65 mph speed limit signs are posted on the Delaware 1 turnpike.
Quote from: PennDOTFan on August 14, 2012, 02:57:31 PM
Quote from: deathtopumpkins on August 13, 2012, 11:09:37 AM
Apart from a number of bridges, tunnels, etc., ... and NHDOT recently installed some awesome variable speed limit signs around Manchester, NH, on NH 101, I-93, and I-293. Looking at them straight on, you can barely tell they're not a standard speed limit sign. Very high-resolution with black numbers on a white background, and no border around the variable part. Seamless transition to the rest of the sign. Do not have any pics though, unfortunately.
Do you think you could grab some photos of these the next time you're in New Hampshire? I'd love to see them, and I'm not going up there anytime soon.
Can do.
Quote from: deathtopumpkins on August 15, 2012, 01:50:58 PM
Quote from: PennDOTFan on August 14, 2012, 02:57:31 PM
Quote from: deathtopumpkins on August 13, 2012, 11:09:37 AM
Apart from a number of bridges, tunnels, etc., ... and NHDOT recently installed some awesome variable speed limit signs around Manchester, NH, on NH 101, I-93, and I-293. Looking at them straight on, you can barely tell they're not a standard speed limit sign. Very high-resolution with black numbers on a white background, and no border around the variable part. Seamless transition to the rest of the sign. Do not have any pics though, unfortunately.
Do you think you could grab some photos of these the next time you're in New Hampshire? I'd love to see them, and I'm not going up there anytime soon.
Can do.
Awesome, thanks! :D
Quote from: 1995hoo on August 14, 2012, 09:02:54 PM
I remember when I was in high school and the first portions of the Faurfax County Parkway in Virginia opened without having speed limit signs posted. Under state law that means 55. Back then the road didn't go anywhere and so was empty, so I just might have used it to see how fast the 1977 Ford Granada I drove back then would go (answer: I don't know, the speedometer maxed out at 85 mph). Obviously if I'd been pulled over I'd have been sunk because maximum speed limits in Virginia had been a subject on the knowledge test, so I knew very well that "Officer, there's no speed limit posted on this road" wouldn't have worked.
A former co-worker who grew up in Fairfax County told me of repeatedly out-running the Federal Aviation Administration Police on the Dulles
Access Road (well before 1982, when Va. 267, the Dulles Toll Road was opened to traffic). This was long enough ago that there was
very little traffic on the Access Road.
Yes, it was patrolled in those days by federal officers working for the FAA (who directly ran both Dulles and National Airports at the time and up to 1988, when the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority was created, along with a new MWAA Police Department).
To this day, I believe the FAA holds title to the land under both airports (including the land under the Access Road and the Toll Road) and to its buildings, which are operated and maintained under a long-term lease by MWAA.
Quote from: Steve on August 14, 2012, 08:55:09 PM
Quote from: cpzilliacus on August 14, 2012, 05:45:59 PM
Quote from: 1995hoo on August 14, 2012, 02:23:40 PM
Quote from: PHLBOS on August 14, 2012, 02:01:04 PM
Does DE 1 sport similar signs in the 65-mph zones as well? I think yes, but it's been a while since I've used that road.
Someone else will have to answer that one. I haven't been on DE-1 in at least 11 years.
Edited to add: I just remembered that I've seen the other sort of sign, the Daktronics one, somewhere else–US-27 between Pembroke Pines and Weston in Florida. My brother-in-law lives not far from that road and we used it multiple times when we visited in June. Every time we went through there the signs were posted at 50 mph, but a search of this forum found a picture of one set at 55. This is exactly the same sort of sign I mentioned earlier as having been used on the Beltway here in Virginia a few years ago (but not anymore).
I clearly recall those signs from the Capital Beltway work near Va. 241 (Telegraph Road).
I took a look on the Daktronics Web site, and it doesn't say, but what happens with this sign if the electricity goes out? Does it display a speed limit even without a power source?
No speed limit would be displayed, it's the same as a VMS. I would presume there's a form of backup power inside the device.
It would be nice if they could come up with technology that would display a default limit in case all of the power is out and the battery is drained.
Quote from: cpzilliacus on August 15, 2012, 03:12:17 PM
....
Yes, it was patrolled in those days by federal officers working for the FAA (who directly ran both Dulles and National Airports at the time and up to 1988, when the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority was created, along with a new MWAA Police Department).
....
You can still get a traffic ticket that requires you to go to federal court if a law enforcement officer stops you on federal property. When I've been waiting for the civil docket call at the federal courthouse in Alexandria, Virginia, I've seen the judges hear a lot of matters stemming from traffic violations on Pentagon property (including some DUIs, speeding, various other things). There are all sorts of places all over the country where that sort of thing can happen.
Quote from: 1995hoo on August 15, 2012, 03:17:18 PM
Quote from: cpzilliacus on August 15, 2012, 03:12:17 PM
....
Yes, it was patrolled in those days by federal officers working for the FAA (who directly ran both Dulles and National Airports at the time and up to 1988, when the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority was created, along with a new MWAA Police Department).
....
You can still get a traffic ticket that requires you to go to federal court if a law enforcement officer stops you on federal property. When I've been waiting for the civil docket call at the federal courthouse in Alexandria, Virginia, I've seen the judges hear a lot of matters stemming from traffic violations on Pentagon property (including some DUIs, speeding, various other things). There are all sorts of places all over the country where that sort of thing can happen.
Absolutely correct.
In Virginia, there's the Pentagon, as you correctly mention above. There was an article some years ago in the Washington Post which described an agreement that had been worked-out with the Commonwealth of Virginia and presumably Arlington County and the City of Alexandria which now allows the Pentagon Force Protection Agency (as it is formally called) to function as Virginia law enforcement officers near (but not just on) the Pentagon Reservation, though I don't know if they make all that many arrests for breaking Virginia laws, but they
can (
at least in theory) issue someone a Virginia summons for a traffic infraction on Va. 27, Va. 110 or I-395.
Other federal properties open to the general public include the George Washington, Colonial and Blue Ridge Parkways, along with Skyline Drive through Shenandoah National Park. Any traffic infraction on any of those roads means a federal ticket if a driver gets caught.
Marine Corps Base Quantico, while it has gates that are staffed by armed Marines, allows most drivers to enter, for the Town of Quantico is located "inside" the base (unless you arrive by water on the Potomac River - I was told it's the only situation where a town is surrounded on all [land] sides by a military reservation in the United States). It is quite possible to get a ticket from the USMC police that patrol the base, though most drivers there seem to be very courteous and careful (for example, speed limit compliance seems to be almost universal at MCB Quantico).
Marines, perhaps more than the other armed forces, are extremely concerned about presenting a good and dignified image to the civilian world. My job has taken me to Quantico sometimes, and their people (civilian and military) seem to be incredibly nice and willing to help. Just one example - earlier this year I was on my way to a meeting at at "mainside" Quantico, and as I got to the gate on Fuller Road (entrance from U.S. 1 at Triangle), the Marine sentry was absolutely delighted to give me
detailed instructions on how to get to my destination building and where I could best find a place to park (parking there is remarkably constrained for a large military base).
Quote from: agentsteel53 on August 13, 2012, 11:45:22 AM
Quote from: cpzilliacus on August 13, 2012, 11:44:03 AM
The New Jersey Turnpike's variable speed limit signs are not bad (though I wish New Jersey's lawmakers would allow the Turnpike Authority to set the signs to display a speed limit of 70 or even 75 MPH ;-) ).
this just reinforces my belief that congressdolts should not be in charge of engineering tasks like defining speed limits.
Fortunately, the U.S. Congress is much less involved in speed limit setting now.
But the final call on speed limits is (I believe) in the hands of state legislatures, who set (at a minimum) the statewide maximum limits, and if they are too low (and it's clear that they are far too low on the New Jersey Turnpike, which was engineered and built in the late 1940's and early 1950's with a design speed of 80 MPH along most of its mainline).
Given that vehicles and equipment (especially tires) are a little better than they were in 1951, it seems that the good weather limit on most of the N.J. Turnpike should be at least 75 MPH (and maybe higher).
Quote from: cpzilliacus on August 15, 2012, 04:00:59 PM
But the final call on speed limits is (I believe) in the hands of state legislatures, who set (at a minimum) the statewide maximum limits, and if they are too low (and it's clear that they are far too low on the New Jersey Turnpike, which was engineered and built in the late 1940's and early 1950's with a design speed of 80 MPH along most of its mainline).
Given that vehicles and equipment (especially tires) are a little better than they were in 1951, it seems that the good weather limit on most of the N.J. Turnpike should be at least 75 MPH (and maybe higher).
85 seems about right, with 70-75-80 in places of high congestion. this being an absolute limit, mind you, not featuring a casual 10-15mph of tolerance, which the NJTP seems to have right now.
and indeed, the legislature should stay out of engineering studies. the maximum extent of the congressassholes' power should be to note that "on all roads in the state of New Jersey, a speed limit, or absence thereof, should be assigned in accordance with engineering and safety principles".
(I can't think of a road in NJ that shouldn't have a speed limit... even rural roads like some sections of US-206 have enough traffic that 60-65 is reasonable.)
Quote from: cpzilliacus on August 15, 2012, 03:13:44 PM
It would be nice if they could come up with technology that would display a default limit in case all of the power is out and the battery is drained.
I believe that should be doable. just have some elements be charged to white and discharged to black, and others vice versa.
the contrast might not be as optimal as a display with uniform cells, but it would probably be close. at worst, a ghost of a "55" or whatnot would be visible for all limits.
Quote from: agentsteel53 on August 15, 2012, 04:12:45 PM
Quote from: cpzilliacus on August 15, 2012, 04:00:59 PM
But the final call on speed limits is (I believe) in the hands of state legislatures, who set (at a minimum) the statewide maximum limits, and if they are too low (and it's clear that they are far too low on the New Jersey Turnpike, which was engineered and built in the late 1940's and early 1950's with a design speed of 80 MPH along most of its mainline).
Given that vehicles and equipment (especially tires) are a little better than they were in 1951, it seems that the good weather limit on most of the N.J. Turnpike should be at least 75 MPH (and maybe higher).
85 seems about right, with 70-75-80 in places of high congestion. this being an absolute limit, mind you, not featuring a casual 10-15mph of tolerance, which the NJTP seems to have right now.
A "hard" limit of 80 MPH would be fine with me, with a
much lower limit on the Newark Bay Extension (Exits 14A, 14B and 14C) and maybe the "free" I-95 part of the Turnpike west (south) of the George Washington Bridge.
Quote from: agentsteel53 on August 15, 2012, 04:12:45 PM
and indeed, the legislature should stay out of engineering studies. the maximum extent of the congressassholes' power should be to note that "on all roads in the state of New Jersey, a speed limit, or absence thereof, should be assigned in accordance with engineering and safety principles".
The Sierra Club and other anti-highway groups would loudly object for an assortment of reasons to such a common-sense idea. Never mind that European nations (which this and other U.S. environmental groups profess unlimited admiration when land use and transit are discussed) generally have higher posted motorway speed limits than the U.S. equivalent freeways
Quote from: agentsteel53 on August 15, 2012, 04:12:45 PM
(I can't think of a road in NJ that shouldn't have a speed limit... even rural roads like some sections of US-206 have enough traffic that 60-65 is reasonable.)
Perhaps consistent with its image among people who are not from New Jersey, most of my driving in the Garden State has been on the Turnpike and the Parkway, along with I-287, I-295 and I-195. I've been (infrequently) on I-80, I-78 and the ACE (the ACE being difficult to reach from the Turnpike because of the breezewood at Bellmawr).
I actually saw I-495 down to 45 MPH about 2 weeks ago. I think it had to do with some strong storms that came through earlier.
I-264 approaching the Downtown Tunnel has variable speed limits. Last month it was 35 MPH in both directions.
Quote from: PHLBOS on August 14, 2012, 02:01:04 PM
Quote from: 1995hoo on August 13, 2012, 12:54:34 PM
Here is one of Delaware's signs (from AARoads.com). I've seen these signs, including in bad weather, and they were very easy to read.
(https://www.aaroads.com/delaware/delaware200/i-495_sb_exit_002_05.jpg)
Does DE 1 sport similar signs in the 65-mph zones as well? I think yes, but it's been a while since I've used that road.
It was agreed upon many years ago that all (well, both) of Delaware's 65 mph roadways were to have variable speed limit signs so that the limit could be reduced to 55 mph on bad air-quality days.
As the signs are aging, the numbers are getting very tough to read on occasion. They appear to have a 'full power' reading, where the numbers are easily legible, but they also seem to have a 'half power' setting, and those numbers can be tough to see.
The signs are also powered by solar power, and the equipment used is also starting to get close to the end of it's useful life.
Quote from: deathtopumpkins on August 13, 2012, 11:51:14 AM
Just did some research and I found the signs that NHDOT used - they're Daktronics, of course: http://www.daktronics.com/ProductsServices/Products/ITS-Dynamic-Message-Signs/Variable-Speed-Limit-Signs/Pages/default.aspx
Turns out that they're the new variable signs used on the NJTP, and are also used by Florida in Orlando, and on the Throgs Neck Bridge in New York.
What's interesting is that the picture on the Daktronics website of the NJ Turnpike's assembly is NOT what is used on the NJ Turnpike!!! The NJ Turnpike Variable Speed Limit numbers are white, with a black background.
Quote from: Takumi on August 15, 2012, 10:12:48 PM
I-264 approaching the Downtown Tunnel has variable speed limits. Last month it was 35 MPH in both directions.
They're always 35, except are reduced down to 25 in the event of a tunnel closure. The Midtown tunnel has standard signs, and the HRBT, MMMBT, and CBBT have variables that are 55, reduced to 25 when the tunnel is closed and 35 or 45 in inclement weather.
Quote from: jeffandnicole on August 16, 2012, 02:24:07 PM
Quote from: PHLBOS on August 14, 2012, 02:01:04 PM
Quote from: 1995hoo on August 13, 2012, 12:54:34 PM
Here is one of Delaware's signs (from AARoads.com). I've seen these signs, including in bad weather, and they were very easy to read.
https://www.aaroads.com/delaware/delaware200/i-495_sb_exit_002_05.jpg
Does DE 1 sport similar signs in the 65-mph zones as well? I think yes, but it's been a while since I've used that road.
It was agreed upon many years ago that all (well, both) of Delaware's 65 mph roadways were to have variable speed limit signs so that the limit could be reduced to 55 mph on bad air-quality days.
As the signs are aging, the numbers are getting very tough to read on occasion. They appear to have a 'full power' reading, where the numbers are easily legible, but they also seem to have a 'half power' setting, and those numbers can be tough to see.
The signs are also powered by solar power, and the equipment used is also starting to get close to the end of it's useful life.
This is entirely untrue. DE 1 has a 65 mph limit without variable speed limit signs. And, as I-95 has a speed limit of only 55 mph, which is posted with standard signs, my previous statement that I-495 is the only road in Delaware with variable speed limits remains true.
Quote from: jeffandnicole on August 16, 2012, 02:29:11 PM
Quote from: deathtopumpkins on August 13, 2012, 11:51:14 AM
Just did some research and I found the signs that NHDOT used - they're Daktronics, of course: http://www.daktronics.com/ProductsServices/Products/ITS-Dynamic-Message-Signs/Variable-Speed-Limit-Signs/Pages/default.aspx
Turns out that they're the new variable signs used on the NJTP, and are also used by Florida in Orlando, and on the Throgs Neck Bridge in New York.
What's interesting is that the picture on the Daktronics website of the NJ Turnpike's assembly is NOT what is used on the NJ Turnpike!!! The NJ Turnpike Variable Speed Limit numbers are white, with a black background.
Even the new signs? I highly doubt Daktronics' website would feature a photoshopped picture of an NJTP sign with a false claim that the NJTA uses their signs.
Quote from: deathtopumpkins on August 16, 2012, 02:54:27 PM
Quote from: jeffandnicole on August 16, 2012, 02:29:11 PM
Quote from: deathtopumpkins on August 13, 2012, 11:51:14 AM
Just did some research and I found the signs that NHDOT used - they're Daktronics, of course: http://www.daktronics.com/ProductsServices/Products/ITS-Dynamic-Message-Signs/Variable-Speed-Limit-Signs/Pages/default.aspx
Turns out that they're the new variable signs used on the NJTP, and are also used by Florida in Orlando, and on the Throgs Neck Bridge in New York.
What's interesting is that the picture on the Daktronics website of the NJ Turnpike's assembly is NOT what is used on the NJ Turnpike!!! The NJ Turnpike Variable Speed Limit numbers are white, with a black background.
Even the new signs? I highly doubt Daktronics' website would feature a photoshopped picture of an NJTP sign with a false claim that the NJTA uses their signs.
I've seen both white-on-black and black-on-white at least on the few signs in use between Exits 8 and 10 with no rhyme nor reason as to when each format is used.
Quote from: Mr. Matté on August 16, 2012, 03:08:26 PM
Quote from: deathtopumpkins on August 16, 2012, 02:54:27 PM
Quote from: jeffandnicole on August 16, 2012, 02:29:11 PM
Quote from: deathtopumpkins on August 13, 2012, 11:51:14 AM
Just did some research and I found the signs that NHDOT used - they're Daktronics, of course: http://www.daktronics.com/ProductsServices/Products/ITS-Dynamic-Message-Signs/Variable-Speed-Limit-Signs/Pages/default.aspx
Turns out that they're the new variable signs used on the NJTP, and are also used by Florida in Orlando, and on the Throgs Neck Bridge in New York.
What's interesting is that the picture on the Daktronics website of the NJ Turnpike's assembly is NOT what is used on the NJ Turnpike!!! The NJ Turnpike Variable Speed Limit numbers are white, with a black background.
Even the new signs? I highly doubt Daktronics' website would feature a photoshopped picture of an NJTP sign with a false claim that the NJTA uses their signs.
I've seen both white-on-black and black-on-white at least on the few signs in use between Exits 8 and 10 with no rhyme nor reason as to when each format is used.
All of the Daktronics signs are black text on a white background for the speed limits. Anything else is incorrect and may have been a test or someone inexperienced programming.
Oregon is starting to use variable speed limits - they are currently in effect on U.S. 26 near the Oregon 47 junction at Manning/Staley's Junction (this is west of North Plains, west of the end of the freeway), and they are about to go into effect on southbound I-5 from I-84 to the Terwilliger Curves, and I-405 southbound from U.S. 26 to I-5.
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.bimedia.net%2Fimages%2F111229_signs2.jpg&hash=33e276506d72d34545aead47ee1a03fecffd0f30)
Looks like Oregon is going with the Daktronics sign (??), black numbers on a white background. The signs are currently covered up, but the "Variable Speed Zone Corridor" signs are appearing and uncovered.
WSDOT is using different signage:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fjputnam%2F3489066113%2F&hash=9759a8c0f11fdc2f4542b42c485bb743c51d38ff)
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F_SykaBz6cMDI%2FTJk1vcIOQuI%2FAAAAAAAAAPo%2FsB4XX7hm3Zo%2Fs1600%2F816-2010%2B006.JPG&hash=116965234cd1eee567f7653c0347841817351e78)
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Futcm.tamu.edu%2Fpublications%2Fnewsletter%2Fv5n1%2Fimages%2FVariable_speed_limits_Seattle.jpg&hash=6fc2fcb06c01433705b6cbc5df85da1243188ab8)
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fqueenoftherandomjob.com%2Fblog%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2011%2F06%2Fvariablespeedlimit.jpg&hash=a0690265a1ba6d9b1e18bf907d0d141392cc7976)
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Flitlnemo%2F5304973318%2F&hash=ee68ff6d889bcf95bfcd6fa29a04ab8d2a058d3e)
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.sigsiv.com%2Fproject365%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2010%2F12%2FSmartHighway-1.jpg&hash=b4d7d6ea8efb247297639e4483c8067e75f251b8)
Quote from: sp_redelectric on August 16, 2012, 09:27:18 PM
[entering variable speed corridor - max 50 mph]
that's not very variable. I'd love for someone to hack all the signs to say - horrors! - 65.
http://www.deldot.gov/traffic/signs.ejs?command=TrafficMessageSigns
Cool page to show the current speeds shown on I-495.
And yes, you are correct...DE 1 does not have variable speed limit signs. Thought they did. My bad.
Quote from: deathtopumpkins on August 16, 2012, 02:54:27 PM
Quote from: Takumi on August 15, 2012, 10:12:48 PM
I-264 approaching the Downtown Tunnel has variable speed limits. Last month it was 35 MPH in both directions.
They're always 35, except are reduced down to 25 in the event of a tunnel closure. The Midtown tunnel has standard signs, and the HRBT, MMMBT, and CBBT have variables that are 55, reduced to 25 when the tunnel is closed and 35 or 45 in inclement weather.
Quote from: jeffandnicole on August 16, 2012, 02:24:07 PM
Quote from: PHLBOS on August 14, 2012, 02:01:04 PM
Quote from: 1995hoo on August 13, 2012, 12:54:34 PM
Here is one of Delaware's signs (from AARoads.com). I've seen these signs, including in bad weather, and they were very easy to read.
https://www.aaroads.com/delaware/delaware200/i-495_sb_exit_002_05.jpg
Does DE 1 sport similar signs in the 65-mph zones as well? I think yes, but it's been a while since I've used that road.
It was agreed upon many years ago that all (well, both) of Delaware's 65 mph roadways were to have variable speed limit signs so that the limit could be reduced to 55 mph on bad air-quality days.
As the signs are aging, the numbers are getting very tough to read on occasion. They appear to have a 'full power' reading, where the numbers are easily legible, but they also seem to have a 'half power' setting, and those numbers can be tough to see.
The signs are also powered by solar power, and the equipment used is also starting to get close to the end of it's useful life.
This is entirely untrue. DE 1 has a 65 mph limit without variable speed limit signs. And, as I-95 has a speed limit of only 55 mph, which is posted with standard signs, my previous statement that I-495 is the only road in Delaware with variable speed limits remains true.
Quote from: jeffandnicole on August 16, 2012, 02:29:11 PM
Quote from: deathtopumpkins on August 13, 2012, 11:51:14 AM
Just did some research and I found the signs that NHDOT used - they're Daktronics, of course: http://www.daktronics.com/ProductsServices/Products/ITS-Dynamic-Message-Signs/Variable-Speed-Limit-Signs/Pages/default.aspx
Turns out that they're the new variable signs used on the NJTP, and are also used by Florida in Orlando, and on the Throgs Neck Bridge in New York.
What's interesting is that the picture on the Daktronics website of the NJ Turnpike's assembly is NOT what is used on the NJ Turnpike!!! The NJ Turnpike Variable Speed Limit numbers are white, with a black background.
Even the new signs? I highly doubt Daktronics' website would feature a photoshopped picture of an NJTP sign with a false claim that the NJTA uses their signs.
As recently as about 90 minutes ago, and everytime going back to the beginning of the year when I've seen a new changeable speed limit sign on, the signs were white numbers with black background. I can't vouch otherwise for the Daktronic's website. I guess the Turnpike could use black numbers with a white background...the sign is an LED sign afterall so the colors could easily be reversed.
I didn't pay attention to them when I was last on the Turnpike back in June (was focused more on the old ones), and I'm not calling you a liar, but my point still stands:
Why would Daktronics lie about the NJTA using their signs and photoshop a picture of one?
I found an image on Flickr and have no idea whether it's authentic. See the second image on this page (won't allow direct linking). (http://flickriver.com/photos/tags/daktronics/)
Also found this on Wikipedia:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fupload.wikimedia.org%2Fwikipedia%2Fcommons%2Fthumb%2Fa%2Fab%2FNJ_Turnpike_new_VMS.jpg%2F800px-NJ_Turnpike_new_VMS.jpg&hash=a90a3ee2089c0fef3ed45572853631e3572c8ef6)
Quote from: 1995hoo on August 17, 2012, 02:54:18 PM
I found an image on Flickr and have no idea whether it's authentic. See the second image on this page (won't allow direct linking). (http://flickriver.com/photos/tags/daktronics/)
This one? http://www.flickr.com/photos/wxkeith/6288100978/
Quote from: NE2 on August 17, 2012, 03:16:59 PM
Quote from: 1995hoo on August 17, 2012, 02:54:18 PM
I found an image on Flickr and have no idea whether it's authentic. See the second image on this page (won't allow direct linking). (http://flickriver.com/photos/tags/daktronics/)
This one? http://www.flickr.com/photos/wxkeith/6288100978/
That's the one. Looks like you found it through a different site. The copy I found kept returning a zero-size file when I tried a direct link–a file called "spaceout.gif."
I see the image I linked is no longer the second one on that page, either.
Quote from: 1995hoo on August 17, 2012, 03:21:52 PM
Quote from: NE2 on August 17, 2012, 03:16:59 PM
Quote from: 1995hoo on August 17, 2012, 02:54:18 PM
I found an image on Flickr and have no idea whether it's authentic. See the second image on this page (won't allow direct linking). (http://flickriver.com/photos/tags/daktronics/)
This one? http://www.flickr.com/photos/wxkeith/6288100978/
That's the one. Looks like you found it through a different site. The copy I found kept returning a zero-size file when I tried a direct link–a file called "spaceout.gif."
I clicked the photo on your link and it took me to the actual Flickr site.
Quote from: NE2 on August 17, 2012, 03:28:26 PM
Quote from: 1995hoo on August 17, 2012, 03:21:52 PM
Quote from: NE2 on August 17, 2012, 03:16:59 PM
Quote from: 1995hoo on August 17, 2012, 02:54:18 PM
I found an image on Flickr and have no idea whether it's authentic. See the second image on this page (won't allow direct linking). (http://flickriver.com/photos/tags/daktronics/)
This one? http://www.flickr.com/photos/wxkeith/6288100978/
That's the one. Looks like you found it through a different site. The copy I found kept returning a zero-size file when I tried a direct link–a file called "spaceout.gif."
I clicked the photo on your link and it took me to the actual Flickr site.
Ah So. I clicked the link BELOW the photo and it opened within the same site. Weird.
Quote from: NE2 on August 17, 2012, 03:16:59 PM
Quote from: 1995hoo on August 17, 2012, 02:54:18 PM
I found an image on Flickr and have no idea whether it's authentic. See the second image on this page (won't allow direct linking). (http://flickriver.com/photos/tags/daktronics/)
This one? http://www.flickr.com/photos/wxkeith/6288100978/
And that is what the Turnpike signs look like. Trust me. I've seen them activated already.
^ Speaking of the New Jersey Turnpike VMS's, they're a real pain to photograph...
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm7.staticflickr.com%2F6028%2F5974141179_f63a990f3d_z.jpg&hash=653848d9e6fe2a128ce9f3e153decc97a47390c3)
Quote from: Steve on August 17, 2012, 07:34:21 PM
Quote from: NE2 on August 17, 2012, 03:16:59 PM
Quote from: 1995hoo on August 17, 2012, 02:54:18 PM
I found an image on Flickr and have no idea whether it's authentic. See the second image on this page (won't allow direct linking). (http://flickriver.com/photos/tags/daktronics/)
This one? http://www.flickr.com/photos/wxkeith/6288100978/
And that is what the Turnpike signs look like. Trust me. I've seen them activated already.
Thanks, I haven't been on there in a year or two. But do the standalone speed limit signs look like that too? That's really the subject of this thread, after all.
Here's one of the white-on-black...incidently taken during a snowfall back in Febraury. As the snow wasn't sticking, the speed limit remained normal.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/7651960@N04/7805744300/in/photostream (http://www.flickr.com/photos/7651960@N04/7805744300/in/photostream)
Quote from: PennDOTFan on August 17, 2012, 08:53:21 PM
^ Speaking of the New Jersey Turnpike VMS's, they're a real pain to photograph...
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm7.staticflickr.com%2F6028%2F5974141179_f63a990f3d_z.jpg&hash=653848d9e6fe2a128ce9f3e153decc97a47390c3)
You need a very slow shutter speed to do it properly - and thus a bunch of other settings to compensate as best you can. Electronic signs are tricky beasts due to the cycling.
It also tends to work better the farther back you are. Not sure if there's an optical reason for this, or if higher zoom changes other camera settings.
Quote from: Steve on August 18, 2012, 01:39:54 AM
Quote from: PennDOTFan on August 17, 2012, 08:53:21 PM
^ Speaking of the New Jersey Turnpike VMS's, they're a real pain to photograph...
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm7.staticflickr.com%2F6028%2F5974141179_f63a990f3d_z.jpg&hash=653848d9e6fe2a128ce9f3e153decc97a47390c3)
You need a very slow shutter speed to do it properly - and thus a bunch of other settings to compensate as best you can. Electronic signs are tricky beasts due to the cycling.
That makes sense, but not sure if I could do that in motion without getting some sort of motion blur.
Quote from: NE2 on August 18, 2012, 10:37:54 AM
It also tends to work better the farther back you are. Not sure if there's an optical reason for this, or if higher zoom changes other camera settings.
I'll be sure to keep this in mind the next time I want to photograph a VMS like this.