Variable Message Signs

[jeffandnicole]

Since it's been a good 4 years since this thread was active, it'll be interesting to see what changes were made in the states of the original responses.

In NJ, NJDOT uses the VMSs regularly on some routes for distance times.

The Turnpike Authority has those nice, crisp full-color LED VMSs which are used on a somewhat regular basis for warnings, state laws, time to specific points, etc.  Could be utilized a little bit better sometimes, but otherwise not bad.

[Zeffy]

In NJ, NJDOT uses the VMSs regularly on some routes for distance times.

Do you know what time they were installed? I remember seeing them recently on I-287 from Exit 12 up until it becomes NJ 440. I think I saw some on I-78 as well, but I'm not 100% sure.

[eagle14410]

WSDOT has a new type of variable sign in Seattle that is up to the minute updating speed limits in each lane and a message sign with more detailed info on what is going on up ahead.

Here is a link showing what it looks like: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/I5/ActiveTrafficManagement/gantries.htm

[Kacie Jane]

And here are some pictures of what they actually look like. Much prettier. 

[jeffandnicole]

In NJ, NJDOT uses the VMSs regularly on some routes for distance times.

Do you know what time they were installed? I remember seeing them recently on I-287 from Exit 12 up until it becomes NJ 440. I think I saw some on I-78 as well, but I'm not 100% sure.

They went online this year, I believe.  295 has been using them for a few months; I-195 and a few highways in North Jersey started using them earlier in the year.

Before that, a VMS sign on I-295 North utilized all 3 lines just to show the time to travel a suburban 9 mile stretch of highway.  It was usually showing 9 - 12 minutes, which would equate to 45 - 60 mph on a 65 mph roadway where traffic speeds average over 70 mph.  The sign was basically useless.

[DSS5]

NCDOT has recently added new VMS signs along several major roadways in Winston-Salem. Currently they all display "No Texting While Driving" messages, but they are being placed ahead of major construction along a stretch of Business 40, which will have a big impact on traffic in the area.