Book Description

This study is the second phase of a three-phase project that may result in the deployment of a statewide, multi-modal electronic payment system. Phase I of the project was completed in March, 2002 and focused on conducting a feasibility study in assessing the opportunities to develop and deploy a statewide, multi-modal electronic payment system. At the conclusion of Phase I, two recommendations were proposed for pilot programs. The purpose of the Phase II effort is to identify general requirements for a radio voice/data communications subsytem to support deploying a regional GPS-based Automatic Vehicle Location / Computer Aided Dispatch (AVL/CAD) system. This system could integrate onboard Mobile Data Terminals (MDTs) and central AVL/CAD software with the radio data communications infrastructure. The MDTs would allow frequent updates for dispatch on location, schedule and route adherence, driver-dispatch text messaging and driver schedule and route adherence feedback. This report will examine existing communications systems available to the transit agencies in the three regions: Bangor, Lewiston-Auburn and greater Portland. These systems will be evaluated in terms of area coverage, initial and recurring operating costs, feasibility, and AVL/CAD suitability. Alternative public and private networks for use in addressing communications needs will also be reviewed.