Analyzing traffic in a network or grid requires new methods, different than might be applicable to the routines associated with perceived linear routes on expressways. It may not be feasible to place sensors along every mile of roadway, so new methods that leverage available technology are required to meet the needs of transportation agencies. Traffic intersections are natural points of congestion; as such they are the most appropriate locations for measurement. Given that cameras and automated signals are becoming prominent elements of the traffic network, much of the infrastructure needed for an IntelliSection may already be present at many major intersections. As the price of such equipment continues to drop, the opportunities to expand the number of camera based collection points increase daily.

Using visual information to measure count and flow of vehicles through an IntelliSection (crossroads, ramp, entrance, parking, etc) the TMC has improved control over the configuration of tolerances which influence data gathered by an intersection. The capacity of each segment of the transportation network, as well as priority within the network, greatly influences the dynamic operational 'health' of each IntelliSection. Priority configurations are adjustable individually, but can also be grouped together for purpose driven impact analysis when responding to events such as traffic collisions, road construction and closures, planned community events, incident responses, and mass evacuation activities. This methodology contributes visual and analytical context to the efficiency and health of the traffic network. Detailed analytic information provides travelers with access to a more complete traffic picture from origin to destination through internet websites and custom navigation services in order to enable them to personally determine actions that might prevent unwarranted delays.

As the prominence of camera deployments and high-speed networks grow, so will access to other private and commercial video sources such as retail parking, event parking, and other roadway entry points. While access to other, as yet un-utilized, video sources become more readily available, the ability to passively measure the volumes and flow on the transportation grid through video analytics will also grow.

A complete picture of traffic activities, incidents, and response operations enhance traveler awareness and safety when the TMC and first responders can better react to and possibly anticipate conditions in the field. In such a scenario, secondary analytics can alert transportation managers to an incident, initiate predictions of ramifications (timing on accident), adjust the priority of a road segment or intersection, and communicate a clear solution response directly into the field via in-car video, dynamic messaging, or other means.

The communications backbone, the transport mechanism, of the MetroTech Net is a Firetide wireless mesh network with its flow-based routine protocol, specifically designed to handle bulky video throughput. This infrastructure allows analytics-quality and evidence-grade video to be collected throughout the road network, and response instructions delivered from the TMC to the affected areas. The ability to view recent accident video immediately upon arriving on the scene can allow police to investigate and clear traffic incidents more quickly, thus mitigating safety and congestion concerns. Allowing emergency personnel to view the scene prior to arrival, from any IntelliSection within the MetroTech Net provides unprecedented understanding and an ability to control incident operations through situational awareness and ready knowledge of the roadway domain in the vicinity.

The goal of Integrated Corridor Management is to maximize the effectiveness of interconnected roadways by providing the best information available for decisions. Clear, accurate traffic information affects not only the chosen route a traveler will take, but can also influence trip duration. Just as variable pricing has proven effective in adjusting demand on roads, traffic demand is smoothed through the delivery of detailed and relevant traffic information to both travelers and systems. This approach is intended to affect the behaviors of traffic controls and the outcomes of incidents that may occur.

Current traffic information delivery systems such as websites, 5-1-1 systems, and navigation devices gauge optimal routes based on expressway data derived from simple linked-line, GIS, basemap data and rudimentary traffic incident information and often includes the associated cadastral data on speed limits, area type, periodic restrictions, etc. As delivery systems improve upon how live traffic information is used, a more complete strategy of information collection and dissemination throughout the traffic network is required. The time expended for a traveler to get to an expressway until arriving at their final destination is contextually as important as current conditions on the expressway. In several situations, alternative routes could be taken, but current traffic information systems lack the necessary information granularity to support empirical decisions and thus measure the effectiveness of actions taken in response to traffic activities.