ABSTRACT
Traffic or transportation management centers (TMC), also referred to as traffic operations centers or transportation management and operations centers, are a key component of transportation systems management and operations. They are the heart of most freeway or limited-access highway and integrated corridor management systems, and arterial traffic signal systems that support traffic-responsive and traffic-adaptive signal control. Freeway management is performed through a combination of human and physical elements. Freeway TMC roles vary depending on the roadway type, region or area monitored, and collocation strategy, if any, that involves other agencies and services. A TMC in the United States that administers freeway or limited-access highway facilities in an urban area typically involves a state-run department of transportation or toll authority responsible for monitoring, and responding to conditions on its roadways. TMCs with combined urban area and statewide jurisdiction are responsible for operations and management strategies of urban area freeways and networks outside of the urban area up to and including statewide.
