I-96 Active Traffic Management System for MDOT

The I-96 Active Traffic Management (ATM) system is the Michigan Department of Transportation’s (MDOT) second ATM-equipped corridor and the first deployment of ramp metering in more than 40 years. By integrating intelligent lane control, dynamic shoulder use, and ramp management, the project has significantly reduced congestion along I-96 west of Detroit—achieving these improvements at a fraction of the cost of constructing new roadways.

SRF played a key role in refining and optimizing the system by:

• Conducting an in-depth review of the I-96 concept of operations and developing a detailed functional comparison to MDOT’s first ATM deployment on US-23 to ensure operational consistency across corridors.
• Analyzing operational scenarios, lane control messaging, and traffic management strategies to enhance system efficiency.
• Facilitating a stakeholder workshop with 34 representatives from state, local, and regional agencies, gathering input to refine the operational concept for the corridor.

Leveraging its expertise in ramp metering, SRF also designed and deployed a dynamic ramp metering strategy tailored to the corridor’s needs. This approach optimizes traffic flow, reduces bottlenecks, and improves overall roadway performance.

Through innovative intelligent transportation solutions, SRF has helped MDOT enhance safety, mobility, and traffic efficiency on I-96, setting the stage for the continued evolution of Active Traffic Management in Michigan.

Resource links:
Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT)
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)