Web Site Monitors Northern Virginia Traffic Cameras

HighwayNet.com, launched last week by the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) and EyeCast.com, enables Internet users to see real-time images from 25 traffic cameras on four Northern Virginia interstates.

The cameras are located on interstates 66, 95, 395 and 495. By this summer, people will be able to see the more than 80 miles of roads covered by all 110 VDOT cameras at www.highwaynet.com.

EyeCast.com, a Herndon, Va.-based application service provider, formed a partnership with VDOT earlier this year to offer commuters free and subscription services, including the option to sign up for MyHighwayNet.com, which enables World Wide Web surfers to save up to three commute routes for reference.

Also, the Michigan Department of Transportation recently partnered with SmartRoute Systems. SmartRoute's Web site, www.smartraveler.com, offers traffic information for about a dozen cities across the country. The site now provides information on 180 miles of Detroit-area freeways based on information from the state's Intelligent Transportation System network.

The network uses information from law enforcement personnel, message signs, ramp lights, pavement sensors and closed-circuit televisions to monitor traffic.