VMS in the Polder

An outline of the state of practice and the role of dynamic information in Dutch traffic management is presented. The Amsterdam case, with 19 signs in use, will show how information is used to optimize route choice and help road users to adjust to circumstances like road works or extreme weather conditions. Standardization efforts that have been carried out are discussed. Standardization is necessary to avoid uncontrolled growth of different applications of dynamic information and different appearances of such information along the road. Standardized functional and technical specifications of dynamic signs, a central DRIP (dynamic route information panel) management system (CDMS) and a communication protocol were developed. This specification is used as a framework for all possible DRIP-applications. New developments are presented. Results of a major study on the strengths and weaknesses of graphical information will be available. Structures for information on a corridor level (from our main ports to Belgium/Germany) have been tested and will be incorporated in the Central DRIP System.