IBM to Deploy Traffic Congestion Technology

IBM is launching an initiative to break traffic congestion bottlenecks.

The technology giant will use advanced predictive analytics and modeling to develop what it calls adaptive traffic systems. These systems will not only monitor and measure real-time traffic, they will give travelers personalized routing information.

For commuters, the system could combine information on multiple modes of travel, including highway and mass transit, through a variety of mobile devices.

Plans for IBM's "Travel and Transportation Center of Competency" initiative were unveiled Thursday at a smarter transportation forum on Capitol Hill.

"There needs to be a new emphasis on intelligent technology and what it can do for the entire transportation system," said Gerry Mooney, IBM's general manager of global government and education.

IBM researchers will analyze real-time data and combine multiple scenarios to deliver the best routes to end users, whether commuters or truck drivers, he said.

IBM will work with state and local transportation agencies to set up pilot projects testing its technologies.

Contact William B. Cassidy at wcassidy@joc.com.