Hampton Roads Traffic Operations Center

2008 Hampton Roads Traffic Operation Center annual report  (PDF, 4 MB)
Weekly performance measures

The Hampton Roads Traffic Operations Center uses computers and advanced technology to monitor traffic, keep it moving, and keep motorists informed of real-time weather and road conditions.

The center's technology helps tourists, shippers and local commuters navigate the highways, bridges and tunnels throughout Hampton Roads through advanced electronic information and communication technologies (also known as Intelligent Transportation Systems). 

The Hampton Roads Traffic Operations Center is part of the statewide traffic management network - including electronic toll collection systems, electronic truck weigh stations and travel information centers, that make Smart Travel possible throughout the commonwealth.

Control Room Operations

The center's controllers monitor and evaluate interstate traffic flow, communicate information to the public and send assistance when necessary. The way the traffic managment works is this: When traffic slows down as the result of a crash, vehicle detection units “feel” a decrease in traffic flow and send this information to the center via fiber optic cable. Computers then signal the traffic controller, who is able to  pinpoint the exact location of the accident via cameras on the roadways. In the next few seconds, the traffic  controller uses electronic message signs and highway advisory radio to give commuters and travelers up-to-the-minute traffic  information on lane closures, bridge opening times,  accidents, construction delays, and detours. Controllers also contact one of the Center's Freeway Incident Response Teams as well as emergency personnel when needed. By providing emergency workers with real-time information, controllers ensure that response time is much quicker, and that responders have details of the incident to provide the  proper equipment and personnel.