Multiple-function systems for highway communications and surveillance

The paper is directed to the subject of highway communication as related to enhancement of safety and services on the national road network. Included is a discussion of the transmission means by which an integrated multi-purpose system, having a relatively-high degree of efficiency in use of the radio spectrum, may be effectuated. Reference is made to the proceedings and preliminary report of the first National Conference on Highway Communication for Service and Safety at Denver in August, 1967. Issues raised by a petition to the FCC by the Automobile Manufacturers Association to establish a Highway Emergency Locating Plan (HELP) in the Citizens Radio Band are summarized. Potential advantages that appear to be presented by use of an integrated system of roadsidecable type and the various communication and control functions that such a system might provide are discussed. The concluding portion of the paper relates to the need to define what services are feasible and desired on a long-range basis; the need to outline and establish parameters relating to preferred types of systems; and the need to explore and determine means by which proposed systems can be financed, operated and maintained.