Arup selected to manage statewide program to modernize New York’s intelligent roadway network

Integrating statewide assets under one central operating environment will allow NYSDOT to better manage traffic flow and support more coordinated responses to accidents. The program is part of a 10-year strategic plan to modernize how the State monitors and operates its intelligent transportation systems.

New York State is home to a complex network of roads and highways across 11 regions. Smart mobility assets – such as traffic signals, cameras, vehicle detection sensors, and variable message signs – differ in complexity and abundance across regions. This program will support a more consistent statewide approach, with upgrades to transportation technology addressing differences in regional systems, assets, and operational needs while aligning with Federal Highway Administration requirements.

“Intelligent transportation systems can vastly improve the performance of our roadways without significant intervention or major construction,” said Paul Maye, Associate Principal and Project Manager at Arup. “We have assembled a team of smart mobility experts to support NYSDOT in managing the complexity of the program and deliver an integrated transportation technology approach across this large and varied statewide roadway network.” 

Arup will be responsible for providing technical oversight and quality assurance for the implementation of a uniform command and control software. The program will also involve on-site upgrades for technology and assets, including the replacement of 6,000+ traffic signal CPUs across New York State. 

Part of the Arup team are Gannett Fleming and Consulting Services USA, two firms with a strong local presence and experience working with NYSDOT systems. Also on the team are Alesig and Luminor, each bringing a wealth of systems integration and change management knowledge to the team.

A central component of the program will be coordinating stakeholder engagement across NYSDOT’s regional and state teams. The team will work to understand local requirements, from rural upstate regions to the complex urban system of New York City. Incorporating feedback from operations staff, Arup will coordinate a phased deployment of the new software platform and associated asset upgrades.

Arup has been contracted to manage the program for five years with the option to extend for an additional year. The full program is expected to be completed by 2036, with traffic signal modernization rolling out over the next three years.