HomeMy WebLinkAboutDRB090401IDWN OF VA
Design Review Board
ANION FORM
Department of Community Development
75 South Frontage Road, Vail, Colorado 81657
tel: 970.479.2139 fax: 970.479.2452
web: www.vailgov.com
Project Name: TOV Dynamic Messaging Signs DRS Number: DRB090401
Project Description:
Participants:
DYNAMIC MESSAGE SIGNS IN THE CDOT RIGHTS-OF-WAY, OFF RAMPS & FRONTAGE ROADS
OWNER VAIL COLORADO MUNICIPAL BLDG 09/09/2009
75 S FRONTAGE RD
VAIL
CO 81657
APPLICANT VAIL COLORADO MUNICIPAL BLDG 09/09/2009
75 S FRONTAGE RD
VAIL
CO 81657
Project Address: 75 S FRONTAGE RD W VAIL Location: TOV RIGHTS OF WAY, OFF RAMPS, FTG. ROADS
Legal Description: Lot: Block: Subdivision: R.O.W.
Parcel Number: 2101-064-0000-3
Comments: See provided designs
BOARD/STAFF ACTION
Motion By: Action: CONCEPT
Second By:
Vote: Date of Approval: 09/16/2009
Conditions:
Cond: 200
(PLAN): A conceptual review is NOT a Design Review Board approval.
Planner: Warren Campbell DRB Fee Paid: $0.00
Department, of Community Development-
General Information: This application is required for any sign that is located within the Town of Vail. All signs re-
quire Design Review approval. Applicable Vail Town Code sections can be reviewed on-line at www.vailgov.com under
Vail Information-Town Code On-line (Title 11 Signs). An application for Design Review cannot be accepted until all
required information is received by the Community Development Department. Design Review approval lapses unless
sign is installed within one year of the approval.
Fee: $50 PLUS $1.00 per square foot of total sign area
Business/ Building Name:
UAI%l by"MiG / " l rjIAC. Jiq n-r
Number of proposed signs: o _ Number of existing signs: 4W
Length of business frontage: Height of sign(s) from grade: Valrt eS -91-4 Type of sign (check all that apply): Square Footage of Sign: _
Free Standing Sign ❑ Hanging/Projecting Sign ❑ Window Sign
❑ Business Sign ❑ Building Identification
❑ Menu/Display Box
❑ Sign Program
Y( Other mAW
Physical Address
Parcel Number:
Property Owner:
Mailing Address:
❑ Subdivision Entrance
❑ Wall Sign
❑ Joint Directory Sign
❑ Business Operation Sign ❑ Open/Closed Sign ❑ Sale Sign
❑ Gas Filled/Fiber Optic ❑ Temporary Site Development Sign
0- -k
JEW 'Kt&4 a D4-w- Ot s
D6 WOY03 (Contact E~ Co. Assessor at 970-328-8640 for parcel no.)
/ -ra v C lo- KA s.fAwe l
s • . e N UA I Go &(o5-7
-75
Phone: 7f- o2cq 3 -S
Owner's Signature:
Primary Contact/ Owner Representative:
Mailing Address:
E-Mail:
Cofm Fax:
Z- Otf 611,
Phone:
For Office Use Only: Cash_ CC: Visa / MC Last 4 CC # Auth # Check #
Fee Paid: AJA- Received From:
Meeting Date: • 16.01 DRB No.: o 171
Planner: Lk). Project No: 09 - Q8 Q
Zoning: Land Use: _
Location of the Proposal: Lot: Block: Subdivision:
Application for Design Review
Sign Application
Executive Summary
Kimley-Horn, Apex Design, and VAg worked together with the Town of Vail to develop a
Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design for Vail. DMS are proposed
within the Town of Vail to assist with wayfinding and provide visitors with real-time
information, such as parking, events, and incidents on the freeway. This Master Plan
and Design provides recommendations for DMS locations, technology, and aesthetics.
Sign Location Recommendations
10 DMS were recommended for installation in the following installation order listed
below. These DMS are part of the Master Plan and installation locations were identified
based upon the future roadway geometry of the frontage roads.
Freeway off-ramps:
1. Westbound 1-70 off-ramp at the Main Vail interchange
2. Eastbound 1-70 off-ramp at the Main Vail interchange
Frontage Roads:
3. Solaris
4. Middle Creek or Four Seasons (dependent upon US Bank East Access
converted to right-in/right-out movements only)
5. Between North Day Lot and future Ever Vail Roundabout
6. Ford Park
7. Vail Village Parking Structure
8. Simba Run (South Frontage Road)
9. Simba Run (North Frontage Road)
10. South Frontage Road roundabout directional static sign
Mounting Position
■ The off-ramps signs are recommended to be mounted overhead and close to the
traveled lanes to achieve the best visibility and better support wayfinding.
■ Five frontage road signs are recommended for installation in the future five-lane
median. The two Simba Run DMS are proposed to be mounted on the side of th
road.
■ The roundabout directional static sign (Number 10) would be mounted in the
roundabout.
Sign Type and Manufacturer Recommendations
Full matrix, full color DMS are recommended. Specifically, the Daktronics VL-3500
series signs were chosen based upon features, functions, and cost.
Sign Base Aesthetics
The DMS are recommended to be installed with decorative, architecturally designed sign
bases. The Interstate 70 off ramps are recommended to include an overhead
cantilevered sign support structure. The other installations within the median and side
mounted are recommended to include a decorative base for an aesthetically pleasing
Dynamic Message Sign installation.
Dynamic Message Sin (DMS )
Master Plan and Design
WorYAa Final Technical Memorandum
To: Tom Kassmel - Town of Vail Public Works
From: Curtis Rowe - Kimley-Horn
Scott Thomas - Apex Design
Jason Osaki -Apex Design
Date: September 2009
Subject: DMS Master Plan and Design Evaluation and Recommendations
Executive Summary
Kimley-Horn, Apex Design, and VAg worked together with the Town of Vail to develop a
Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design for Vail. DMS is proposed
within the Town of Vail to convey real time, accurate information to visitors, guests, and
residents of Vail. Primarily, these DMS will be used to inform drivers of the status (Open
or Full) of the various parking structures during the Winter, Vail Pass Closures, incidents,
events, and other pertinent information. This Master Plan and Design included
recommendations pertaining to recommended locations, recommended sign types,
recommended sign manufacturer, recommended software, and recommended sign
foundation/aesthetics. The following describe the project results, conclusions and
recommendations:
Sign Location Recommendations
The westbound and eastbound Interstate 70 off-ramps at the Main Vail interchange are
recommended locations for new DMS installations. The main purpose of these DMS
would be to inform the arriving visitor/guest of Vail the parking status of the parking
structures. The existing DMS installed on these off-ramps are not effectively used or
located. They are sometimes blocked by parked vehicles and/or are located somewhat
outside of approaching drivers' view. Therefore, it is recommended that these signs be
replaced with new signs, located closer to the off-ramp traffic. It would be preferred to
have these signs mounted on an aesthetic overhead sign structure to provide the
optimal sight visibility. The westbound off-ramp DMS direction is recommended for the
first installation as it serves traffic arriving to Vail from the Front Range of Colorado and
Denver International Airport. The eastbound off-ramp is recommended as the second
priority for DMS installation.
Five additional DMS locations were identified and recommended for installation within
the proposed median of the future five-lane South Frontage Road. These signs would
be ground mounted and include an architecturally design base. All five of these
locations are recommended to be double sided to convey information, possibly different
messages, for eastbound and westbound traffic along the South Frontage Road. In
priority, these signs are recommended in the following locations:
1. Solaris
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DWYMVAa Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
2. Middle Creek or Four Seasons (dependent upon US Bank East Access
converted to right-in/right-out movements only)
3. Between North Day Lot and future Ever Vail Roundabout
4. Ford Park
5. Vail Village Parking Structure
All of these signs could be used to convey many different types of messages and for
many different purposes. These locations were chosen to provide optimal location to
inform drivers of the parking structure status, of Vail Pass Closures, and on entry to the
Vail Village and Lionshead core areas.
On a routine basis, the Solaris sign could provide information pertaining to the Vail
Village Parking Structure status and of possible Vail Pass Closures. This is the most
typical location of the portable sign today. The Middle Creek or Four Seasons DMS
location could provide information for the Lionshead Parking Structure for westbound
traffic and Vail Pass Closures for eastbound traffic. The DMS to be installed between
North Day Lot and the future Ever Vail Roundabout is recommended for use to provide
Ever Vail parking status for westbound traffic and Vail Pass Closures for eastbound
traffic. The Ford Park DMS would inform drivers of parking status in Vail as they arrive
for westbound traffic and of possible Vail Pass Closures and "Road Closed, Local Traffic
Only" messages for eastbound traffic. The sign adjacent to the Vail Village Parking
Structure has been assigned the lowest priority due to the Dynamic Message Signs
recommended at Solaris and Ford Park may effectively convey the necessary
information through the Vail Village area that this sign may not be found to be needed.
Two Dynamic Message Signs were identified to be side mount and single sided
locations. These are recommended at locations along the south side of both the South
and North Frontage Road for eastbound traffic on the approach to the proposed future
Simba Run Underpass roundabouts. These signs would be used to convey necessary
information as traffic enters the main village core areas of Vail from the west.
Sign Type and Manufacturer Recommendations
To provide the most flexibility for future use, full matrix and full color DMS are
recommended. Based on the technology available today, as well as the purpose of the
signs to be used, it is recommended that Daktronics VL-3500 series signs be used.
Sign Software Recommended
It is recommended that the Vanguard software provided by Daktronics be used with
these new signs. This software is compatible with industry standards. A seat of the
CTMS software is also being provided to the Town of Vail from CDOT. Use of this
software will also control the signs if desired, but in this case the Town will not need to
rely on CDOT for software upgrades.
Sign Base Aesthetics
The DMS are recommended to be installed with decorative, architecturally designed sign
bases. The Interstate 70 off ramps are recommended to include an overhead
cantilevered sign support structure. The other installations within the median and side
mounted are recommended to include a decorative base for an aesthetically pleasing
Dynamic Message Sign installation.
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Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
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AIL
Introduction
The Town of Vail is currently experiencing a high level of on-going development and
redevelopment. With this new development, an increased level of traffic is anticipated.
Therefore, it has become more important than ever before that there be an accurate,
reliable, and real-time way to provide information to Vail's guests, visitors, and residents.
This project includes an overall Dynamic Message Sign Master Plan and Design for the
Town of Vail to provide this purpose. We understand that this project has been of
interest to the Town for several years and came to fruition through input from internal
staff and Vail Resorts Development Company personnel.
As part of this project, we have strived to do the following:
• Assist the Town in selecting the most appropriate locations for DMS along the
frontage roads to inform travelers and upgrade or replace the existing devices to
ensure compatibility.
• Advise Vail of DMS technology options available, and the associated pros and
cons, to create an integrated system with real-time communications.
• Prepare a conceptual design, which includes an aesthetic layout.
As the Town is well aware, the current DMS is a patchwork of different types of signs
and technologies. They are not compatible with each other to be used effectively and
efficiently. Existing signs are either not used at all or are not utilized to their full
potential. We have identified the following key design considerations for the Town of
Vail:
• Uniformity and consistency of DMS signs and messages to facilitate wayfinding.
• Proper placement of signs to relay the right information at the right time to help
prevent driver confusion, frustration, and unnecessary "wandering" around Town.
• Planning and designing a system of DMS that supports the immediate needs of
Vail while accommodating expansion. For example, the DMS system should
have a coordinated and an intuitive and user-friendly software interface capable
of updating all DMS quickly.
• DMS shall fit in with the aesthetics of the environment and overall culture of the
Town.
DMS MASTER PLAN
This section of the Technical Memorandum contains the evaluation of the existing sign
locations and provides recommendations for the ultimate DMS location plan.
Existing Conditions Evaluation
The Town has already
reviewed, and discussed
history, goals, and vision
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had internal discussions about this project. We obtained,
stakeholder meeting items to have a clear understating of the
of the Town. From a technical perspective, we collected
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Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
information from Town staff about the existing DMS, including models, communication
topologies, messaging, software, and so forth. This included field verification and data
collection as necessary. In addition, we worked with the Town to identify and define the
functional and operational user needs for the DMS system.
Existing Use of Signs
The Town has existing DMS infrastructure deployed at the 1-70 off-ramps (eastbound
and westbound), at roundabouts and at parking garages. Portable DMS signs are also
utilized to supplement these permanent DMS locations as seen necessary by the Town.
The current signs on the off-ramps mostly display "canned" messages uploaded from the
Police Department. The parking structure signs, controlled separately by parking
structure employees, indicate parking structure status. The signs in the roundabout are
not used.
Photo 1 - Existing I-70 Off ramp DIAS
The parking structure signage is used to
address the common issue of the parking
structures being full and needing to inform
arriving visitors. These signs are located
directly at the parking structures adjacent to
the driveway access along the South
Frontage Road. Photo 2 is of the
Lionshead Parking Structure sign.
The off-ramp DMS signs are located
toward the end of the ramps to the driver's
right. These signs are offset
approximately 20' minimum in order to
provide the required clear zone with no
guard-rail requirements based on the
ramp speed limit. The current locations
allow full use of the shoulder for pull off
areas for vehicles as well as snow
removal and storage. The use of these
signs, outside of the canned messages,
has been identified as being limited and
ineffective. The existing DMS for the
eastbound off ramp is shown in Photo 1.
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Dynamic Message Sin (DMS) Master Plan and Design
v0
9 In addition to the signage noted above
and various static signs throughout the
area, there are two existing DMS signs in
the roundabout. These are located at the
exit roadways of the roundabout and are
included with the directional sign
assembly. The DMS portion of these
signs are rarely, if ever, in use due to size
and driver's ability to comprehend in
roundabout. Photo 3 is of the Lionshead
Parking directional sign with the DMS
board.
Portable signs are used when Town events or circumstances warrant, and are placed
accordingly. Generally these are located on the South Frontage Road, close to the Main
Vail Roundabout. Often, a portable DMS is located east of the Main Vail Roundabout
along South Frontage Road in front of the Solaris. The signs are updated and
programmed locally at the sign and indicate various information based on the situation.
While the use of these signs is generally effective at conveying the information contained
in brief messages, these are labor intensive and aesthetically unappealing. The almost
continual use of these portables indicate the overwhelming need for a more permanent
and flexible system to keep up with the times.
Concerns with Existing System
As noted, the existing signage system warrants improvement. The sign locations, type,
and operation lack effectiveness, are labor intensive, and not up to the Town of Vail
expectations for aesthetics.
The existing signs on the eastbound and westbound Interstate 70 off-ramps are not as
visible as desired. They are located a fair distance off the ramp, due to clear zone
requirements. Due to the horizontal offset location, despite the sign size, the message
information is often missed by drivers, making their use even less effective. Further, the
signs being side mounted creates visibility issues when vehicles, especially trucks, are
parked adjacent to the signs. In addition, the use of "canned" messages may decrease
the effectiveness of the signs. Although providing information, drivers may not always
perceive the information as being relevant. Therefore, drivers may begin ignoring the
signs thinking that it always displays a message of "Slow Down Enjoy the View" for
example.
The signs at the Vail Village and Lionshead parking structures are used and they are
operated by the parking structure personnel. Although, these signs could display when
the parking structure is "FULL", these signs typically do not as they are too small to be
effective. Likewise, they are located at the parking structure itself, which would only be
effective from keeping vehicles from entering the parking structure, they are not effective
from keeping vehicles driving to the parking structure. The location and timeliness of
this information is not effective in efficiently directing visitors to the available parking
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Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
,M1W of areas as they arrive in Vail. Currently drivers typically travel first to the Vail Village
Parking Structure to learn that it is full. Then they need to turn around, causing
numerous other traffic and circulation issues. The improved system shall provide timely
information to guests to inform them the "OPEN" or "FULL" status of the Vail Village and
Lionshead Parking Structures and be located prior to the decision point of traveling to
one structure versus the other.
The dynamic message portions of the directional signs at the roundabout were identified
to be seldom, if ever, used. The directional signs are good at serving the purpose of
identifying the direction of Vail Village and Lionshead for traffic traveling within the
roundabout, although there is a lot of signage in the area and other conflicts requiring
driver attention. However, the dynamic message portion of these signs is too small to be
effective. It would be useful to have signs such as these identifying the status of each
parking structure as "OPEN" or "FULL", but these would require a modification with a
blank out message board and be much larger in size. This would also require an
operational procedure of providing the message of the structure being "OPEN" or "FULL"
from the parking attendant to provide reliable real time information.
Currently the portables are used often and consistently to convey the time-dependent
messages to visitors though they are not always updated in "real-time". Often times
these messages are longer in length than a traveler will have the ability to process, or
are very short and abbreviated due to the limited number of characters and lines. Use of
new permanent frontage road Dynamic Message Signs for this purpose is needed to
effectively display this information.
In summary, the existing system does not properly help to channel traffic to the desired
locations, minimize traffic confusion, and does not live up to the rest of the world-class
Town elements. The signage technology is out-dated and not easily updated or tied into
other traffic information systems. This Master Plan identifies recommendations for a
new system of signs to be used effectively by the Town.
Master Plan
This Master Plan was developed based upon the user needs identified and defined.
DMS locations were chosen based upon the ability to accomplish the following:
■ Effectively relay wayfinding information for parking and special events, Vail pass
closures, construction, detours, and other relevant information to guests.
■ Provide messages that are readable by drivers and conform to the Manual of
Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) character height guidelines for
legibility and travel speed.
• Not conflict with other signs or create a hindrance for vehicle maneuvers.
■ Located within the recommended clear zone offset and height according to the
MUTCD and AASHTO Roadside Design Guide.
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Fit into the existing geometry and planned developments, such as the South
Frontage Road medians near the Four Seasons and Solaris projects as well as
the core area throughout Vail.
The Town of Vail has a desire to improve the existing signage system in place. It is
believed that the motorists visiting the Vail Village and Lionshead areas would benefit
from more efficient and effective use of signage and has retained the project team to
determine recommendations on signage use, location, technology, and architectural
installation concepts.
The primary purposes for employing Dynamic Message Signs (DMS) at the Interstate-70
off-ramps and along the frontage roads are to perform the following:
Provide motorists with advance notice of where to park, especially during the ski
season.
2. Provide motorists with useful information about a problem they may encounter
along their planned route such as crashes, construction delays, detours and 1-70
closures due to inclement weather.
3. Provide information as it relates to special event traffic management.
The desire from the Town of Vail is that this DMS system shall be fully controllable by
remote access so that the system updates could be simply managed and would be
timely as well as accurate. Additionally, the upcoming frontage road improvements will
allow additional placement options that will provide additional and more effective signage
locations. The South Frontage Road is being improved to include a five-lane cross
section with a raised median through much of the core area of Vail to accommodate the
projected future traffic volumes.
The next phase, not included within this project scope, may include pedestrian level
kiosks to provide information (such as Vail Pass Closure and travel information) as
skiers leave the mountain. The scope of this project is to include the Off-Ramps and
Frontage Roads and relate to the recommended DMS placement and functionality.
DMS Location Recommendations
Various considerations were taken into account in determining the proposed DMS
locations and functionality of the signs. The balance of cost, effectiveness and safety
are critical elements to this decision making process. The preliminary location
recommendations provided by the Town, knowledge of the project area, and analysis of
sight distance requirements were the basis of the initial location selections. These
locations can be seen on the overall maps (Figures 1, 2A and 2B) and described more
specifically below.
Interstate 70 Off-Ramp Sianaae
It is agreed by the Town and the design team alike that the 1-70 off ramps provide an
excellent opportunity to convey valuable information to visitors as they first arrive while
exiting at the Main Vail Interchange. In order to improve visibility and effectiveness of
the signage, both physical location and sign technology are important. In order to
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Dynamic Message Sign DMS Master Plan and Design
improve visibility, two options are available. One approach would be to provide a
cantilevered support system with an overhead sign so that it is located above the
roadway. This would improve visibility due to the vertical curvature of the off ramps as
well as placing it above any possible parked vehicles along the off ramp. A second
approach would be to locate the DMS (one each per off-ramp) on a ground-mounted
monument base closer to the shoulder. Both approaches would require guard rail
protection since the base and sign structure would be in the designated clear zone.
While it is known that a fully variable DMS sign would provide the greatest flexibility of
messages and convey a variety of information to the visitors, the primary goal of the off-
ramp signs is to provide parking information to the visitor. Due to budget constraints,
static signs with DMS blank out inserts could be used in these locations for this purpose
(See Figure 3 for location information). The static portion of the sign would list the
parking structures and the dynamic portion of the signs would illustrate the status of
these structures (i.e. "FULL" or "OPEN"). These could be expanded to include future
parking structures or an additional sign could be installed. The signs used at the off-
ramps would be single sided and larger in size due to the speed limit (see Sign
Technology section for sign details). This type of sign can be very useful to display the
necessary parking status information, possibly even better than a fully operational DMS.
Frontage Road Signage
In order to supplement the information provided at the Interstate 70 off ramps, DMS are
recommended along the South Frontage Road. These signs could be used to provide
additional information related to weather, incidents, special events, or other pertinent
information. The available locations for these signs were based on an analysis of sight
distance for vehicles turning to and from the Frontage Road. Sight distance is needed at
minor street and driveway intersections to allow drivers of stopped vehicles a sufficient
view of the intersecting frontage road to decide when to enter the roadway. If the
available sight distance for an entering vehicle is at least equal to the appropriate
stopping sight distance for the major road, the drivers have sufficient sight distance to
anticipate and avoid collisions. Specified areas along intersection approaches and
across their corners should be clear of obstructions that might block a driver's view of
potentially conflicting vehicles. The sight distance required for vehicles making a left-turn
movement from the minor roadway onto a major roadway is 280 feet in a 25 mph speed
zone, and 500 feet in a 45 mph zone. Additionally, the sight distance required for
vehicles making left-turn movements from the main roadway (South Frontage Road)
onto the minor roadways or driveway access points was considered. These movements
require 205' in a 25 mph speed zone, and 365' in a 45 mph zone. All proposed sign
locations are within the 25 mph speed limit zone with the exception of the areas east of
Ford Park and west of the proposed Ever Vail and Simba Run Underpass roundabouts.
The proposed improvements to the South Frontage Road in the Vail Village and
Lionshead areas include a five lane roadway which includes a raised median island in
the center of the roadway in various locations. These 16-foot (edge of pavement to
edge of pavement) raised medians allow for additional landscaping, provide traffic
calming, as well as locations suitable for the proposed Dynamic Message Signs.
Placing the signage in the medians also allows for the use of double-sided DMS signs so
that both eastbound and westbound travelers receive valuable information pertinent to
the direction they are traveling. The use of these double-sided signs helps to reduce
costs for the sign support monuments, power routing to the sign, and minimizes the
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Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
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impact to landscaping than if the signs were single-sided and/or mounted on the side of
the roadway. Having signs located in the center of the roadway may also minimize the
potential for vandalism since they are not located in a standard path of pedestrian travel.
Three full DMS locations east of the Main Vail Roundabout along the South Frontage
Road were determined based on the items noted above as well as discussions with the
Town. The recommended sign locations, in order of installation priority, are the
following: in front of the Solaris, east of Ford Park, and between Ford Park and the Vail
Village parking structure. All of these sign are recommended to be installed within the
median (the median provides 13' from back of curb at full width), a minimum of 1.5 feet
from behind the face of curb for clear zone requirements, outside of sight distance
restriction areas, and be double-sided.
The Solaris DMS is recommended to be installed after the South Frontage Road median
construction is complete. This sign is recommended in the approximate location shown
in Figure 4. This location was chosen since it is in close proximity to the Vail Village
Parking Structure, is in between the Main Vail Roundabout and the Vail Village Parking
Structure, is the typical location of the portable today, and could provide information
relative to the Vail Village Parking Structure for eastbound traffic as well as messages
relative to the Vail Pass Closure for both directions of travel on South Frontage Road.
The Ford Park DMS is recommended to be installed at such time Ford Park is further
developed (i.e. cultural / recreation center, parking, etc.), access is identified, and the
roadway improvements are in place. The DMS should be installed east of the proposed
future Ford Park parking structure access, shown in the approximate location of Figure
5. This location was chosen since it will be able to be used as the first sign for
westbound traffic as it enters Vail. This will allow the east facing DMS to be used to
inform drivers of the status of the various parking structures. The location would also
allow for the west facing DMS to inform drivers of Vail Pass closures and subsequent
South Frontage Road closures to "Local Traffic Only".
The necessity of the third sign installation (thought to be the location between Ford Park
and the Vail Village parking structure) would be confirmed in the future, following the
installation and operation of the other two signs. The location of this DMS could be
installed in a location shown in Figure 6. This location was chosen since the Solaris
DMS could provide Vail Village Parking information and this DMS could provide
information regarding Ford Park Parking. However, it may be found that the Solaris
DMS would adequately convey these messages. The location of the other two
recommended DMS and the messages being displayed may mean that this location is
optional.
Three full DMS locations west of the Main Vail Roundabout along the South Frontage
Road were determined based on the items noted previously as well as discussions with
the Town. The highest priority sign location for this Lionshead Village side should be
located along the South Frontage Road between the Main Vail Roundabout and the
Lionshead Parking Structure. This location was chosen to provide information relative to
the Lionshead Parking Structure for the east facing DMS and Vail Pass Closures for the
west facing DMS. It is desired by the Town that the first signage to the west of the
roundabout be located as close to the roundabout as practicable. We agree that this
would be the most effective location for a DMS. This area contains access to the Four
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TO,W *Oii Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
Seasons and US Bank to the south and the Town of Vail Municipal Buildings to the
north. Each of these facilities have full-movement accesses allowed, which bring the
sight distance parameters noted previously into consideration for both directions of travel
along the South Frontage Road. Due to these safety considerations, a DMS is not
available to be installed within the proposed medians of the South Frontage Road in this
area. Therefore, the signage should be located further west (in the approximate Middle
Creek crossing area) as shown in Figure 7A. However, if the eastern access of US
Bank is available to be restricted to right-in/right-out movements only, then the proposed
median between the Four Seasons and Town of Vail buildings would allow for a DMS
installation. This alternate location is shown in Figure 713. Either location would allow
for information to be conveyed to visitors prior to reaching the Lionshead Parking
Structure; however the location closer to the roundabout would allow for more timely
information to Vail guests.
The second priority western DMS location recommended is west of the North Day Lot
and east of the proposed Ever Vail roundabout. This sign should be installed after the
South Frontage Road improvements being proposed as part of the Ever Vail project.
This sign is recommended to be double-sided in the median as shown in Figure 8. This
sign location is preferred to provide information relative to future Ever Vail parking for
westbound traffic as well as Lionshead, Vail Village, and future Ford Park parking
structures for eastbound traffic.
A third DMS location was discussed, which is proposed and recommended west of Ever
Vail; however, the location for this installation would depend on the future roadway
developments of the South Frontage Road and possible future Simba Run Underpass
and roundabouts. The current design does not include median improvements in this
area along the South and North Frontage Roads, so single-sided signs along the south
side of the North and South Frontage Roads for eastbound traffic would be the only
option at this point. It was discussed that signage should be located close to the
western side of the Simba Run Underpass for eastbound traffic prior to entering the
roundabout for both the South and North Frontage Roads, but not be in conflict with
other necessary signing as a vehicle approaches the roundabout. Exact locations would
be determined with Frontage Road and Simba Run Underpass roadway work and other
developments in the future. These DMS would be available to provide status and
information relative to Vail events and parking status of all structures. These tentative
locations are shown in Figure 9.
In all situations, the recommended sign locations may impact existing or planned
landscaping for these areas. This will need to be addressed in the design of the
roadway improvements or upon sign installation. Maintenance of proper sight distance
for vehicular movements must take precedence over location selection or landscaping
aesthetics.
Roundabout Signage
The Main Vail Roundabout was discussed as being an opportunity to convey directional
information. The concerns were that the static signage that exists at the South Frontage
Road roundabout exits are not effective or efficient in delivering messages to visitors
unfamiliar with the area as to which direction Lionshead or Vail Village is located from
the Main Vail Roundabout. Based on this discussion, a recommendation would be to
include a ground-mounted static monument sign located within the center of the
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oy&-~ Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
Toww Of roundabout. This sign should be located such that it would be visible to a driver traveling
south under the Interstate 70 bridges from the north side of Interstate-70. This
monument signage should be simple in the message and identify that Lionshead is
located to the right and that Vail Village is around the circle (with a hook left visual) to the
left. This sign will provide an aesthetically pleasing approach to the main Vail areas and
could be incorporated as an overall "Welcome" sign for Vail.
Likewise, more visible post directional signs at the South Frontage exit roadways along
the Main Vail Roundabout identifying Lionshead and Vail Village could be installed.
These signs could include blank out message boards identifying if the parking structures
are "OPEN" or "FULL." This type of sign system should be made expandable with the
possible future inclusion of Ford Park and Ever Vail parking structures. These signs
would reiterate and reinforce the information conveyed to the drivers at the 1-70 off-ramp
signs. Based on current budget plans and considerations, this recommendation is
believed to be lower in priority.
Based on the above evaluation, the following Table 1 identifies the recommendations
and provides a priority for deployment.
C=/1 KirdeyHom
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~ Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
TOWN ONE E
i a4ie i : van ums
rriornizea ue io m
ent Tian
Priority
L
l
location
. Sign
Notes
eve
1A
1-70 Westbound Off Ramp
Full Matrix or
Sign to be mounted to
Static Parking with
increase visibility. Higher
DMS Blank Out
Level 1 priority off-ramp due
to traffic arriving from
Denver.
1 B
1-70 Eastbound Off Ramp
Full Matrix or
Sign to be mounted to
Static Parking with
increase visibility.
DMS Blank Out
2A
South Frontage Road -
Double Sided DMS
Sign to be located in median.
Solaris
Higher Level 2 priority since
Vail Village Parking Structure
is typically more utilized.
Location could provide Vail
Pass Closure information.
2B
South Frontage Road -
Double Sided DMS
Sign to be located in median.
Middle Creek
Could be located adjacent to
Four Season (Alternate)
Four Season if Eastern US
Bank Access restricted to
Right-In/Right-Out
movements only.
3A
South Frontage Road -
Double Sided DMS
Sign to be located in median.
between North Day Lot and
Installed with new Ever Vail
Ever Vail Roundabout
development and parking
structure. Higher Level 3
priority due to anticipated
project ti ing.
3B
South Frontage Road - East
Double Sided DMS
Sign to be located in median.
of Ford Park Entrance
Installed with new Ford Park
parking structure.
4A
South Frontage Road -
Double Sided DMS
Sign to be located in median.
between Ford Park and Vail
Sign installation dependent
Village Parking Structure
upon evaluation of other
DMS installed. May not be
needed since the other two
on the East side may
effectively convey the
necessa information.
4B
South Frontage Road - west
Single Sided DMS
Sign to be side mounted for
of Ever Vail
eastbound traffic. Should be
located west of possible
future Simba Run Underpass
roundabout.
4C
North Frontage Road - west
Single Sided DMS
Sign to be side mounted for
of Simba Run Underpass
eastbound traffic. Should be
located west of possible
future Simba Run Underpass
roundabout.
5
Roundabout Directional at
Directional Signage
Signs to identify parking
South Frontage Road for
Blank Out Boards
structure status "OPEN" or
Lionshead and Vail Village
"FULL" at roundabout exit to
South Fronta a Road
EM" Kimey-Mom
and Associates, inc.
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TOWN o i Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
Figure 1
C=n Kpft-Horn
and Associates, Inc.
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Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
Tojw OF Figure 2A
CMn KrtdHo
and yts, Inc.
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Figure 2B
EM" Kid -Homes, inc.
Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
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Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
TOW Of ViA1~
Figure 3
C M FI Kirrd -Horn
and Associates, inc.
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TOWN oi-vAa, Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
Figure 4
O d Hom
and Associates, Inc.
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rowN oivAa: Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
Figure 5
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am Associates, inc.
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TOWN Figure 6
C=n KideyMom
and Associates, Inc.
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Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
TO WWOhAA
Figure 7A
KimleyMan
~ and Associates, Inc.
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Dynamic Message Sin (DMS) Master Plan and Design
Figure 7B
C•/1 King -Hom
and Associates, Inc.
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nwNoF v Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
Figure 8
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and Associates, inc.
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Figure 9
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TAW a~
DMS DESIGN
This section of the Technical Memorandum explores Dynamic Message Sign (DMS)
technologies, provides options for each, and makes design and procurement
recommendations.
Existing DMS Infrastructure
The Town has existing DMS infrastructure deployed at 1-70 off-ramps (eastbound and
westbound), at roundabouts and at parking garages. Portable DMS are also utilized to
supplement the previously mentioned permanent DMS locations. All DMS, permanent
and portable, utilize Light Emitting Diode (LED) technology for its light source. See
Table 2 for additional detail on existing DMS infrastructure.
Table 2: Town of Vail's Existinq DMS Infrastructure
Location
1-70 Off-Rams
Quantity
2
Manufacturer
Daktronics
Model
DMS
Galax 24x64 matrix (monochrome)
Roundabouts
2
Daktronics
Galax 16x96 matrix monochrome
Parkin Garages
2
Daktronics
Infonet 6x48x1 matrix monochrome
Portables
2
Precision Solar
N/A
All of the existing Daktronics DMS listed in Table 2 utilize an internal display controller
(Version 2). Initially it was believed that the Galaxy signs could be modified to be
National Transportation Communications for ITS Protocol (NTCIP) compliant by simply
upgrading the firmware, however conversations
with the Daktronics applications engineer indicated
that both the display controllers (v2) and firmware
must be replaced. Additionally, the Infonet series
of signs have been discontinued by Daktronics and
S Frontage Road W
are no longer available.
The existing Precision Solar portable signs are old
and not very functional. They need to be
programmed locally and do not currently have any
remote control and configuration capabilities.
Remote control and configuration of the existing Daktronics signs are performed using
the Venus 1500 display control software (version 3.7) hosted on a Citrix server.
Connectivity is Ethernet-based with the Galaxy signs using a 2.4 GHZ unlicensed
wireless infrastructure. The Infonet sign at the Lionshead Parking Structure is
connected via Digital Subscriber Line (DSL), while the Infonet sign at the Village Parking
Structure is directly connected. The parking structure attendants currently control the
Infonet parking structure signs, while the Vail Police Department controls the Galaxy 1-70
off-ramp signs. The Galaxy roundabout signs, shown in Photo 4, are not used anymore
because the Town feels that the character heights are too small to provide useful
Can KifteyHan
and Associates, inc. 24 a pexd es i g n
Photo 4 - Existing Roundabout DMS
nwwooi,~d,,' Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
information to motorists. Feedback from the current users of the Venus 1500 display
control software have indicated that it is not a user-friendly, intuitive product.
Need for new DMS
The existing DMS signs are comprised of different models, all of which are outdated and
not utilized. Furthermore, these signs are commercial grade and do not support
standards in the transportation industry (this is discussed further in the subsequent
NTCIP section). In addition to the inadequate functionality, the current DMS are located
such that they are difficult to read and do not display relevant information at the
appropriate time to ensure proper driver decision making.
Since the original signs were installed, there have also been significant advancements in
technology. For example, full color signs are now available in the transportation market
and accepted by industry standards.
Existing DMS Messages
Based on the message library dated
August 31, 2007, the Town currently
has 71 messages developed with 36
message sequences. The longest
message is message #264 which has
25 characters and reads FORDPARK
SOCCER FD PKG $5. The message
sequences range from a single line
(sequence #13) up to five lines
(sequence #43). A breakdown of
message sequences appears in
Figure 2.
As indicated by the bar chart in Figure 10, 50% of the message sequences contain at
least four message lines. This needs to be considered in assessing any new DMS
technology as well as determining the amount of information that motorists can
comprehend in the short time they have available to read the message.
Kidey-Hom
andA=iafes,Inc. 25 apexdesign
Figure 10 - Vail DMS Message Sequences
Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
7511 OF YAd
Messaging Issues to Contemplate for the New DMS
Implementation
DMS technology is and will continue to be one of the most visible links to the Town of
Vail's Public Works Department. As such, an improperly designed or operated DMS
message will have a negative impact on motorists' perception about the credibility of the
information being provided. Messaging issues to consider include:
A. The motorist's available exposure time, within the viewing range of the DMS,
should control the maximum length of message that can be displayed. Exposure
time is directly related to the prevailing driving speeds and the message legibility
distance.
B. Displaying messages that are too long for motorists to read at prevailing roadway
driving speeds or are much too complex can lead to motorist uncertainty, hence
negatively affecting traffic flow as vehicles slow down to read the DMS.
C. Viewing ranges provided by DMS manufacturers tend to be based on ideal
conditions along with the viewing angles associated with the sign. However,
actual deployments are not typically blessed with ideal conditions. The
placement of the DMS will have to account for:
1) Operating speed of traffic on the roadway.
2) Horizontal curves and obstructions (e.g., trees, landscaping, etc.)
upstream of the proposed DMS location that could hamper sight distance.
3) Vertical curves upstream of the proposed DMS location that could affect
sight distance.
4) The presence, number and information on static guide signs in the vicinity
of a proposed DMS to prevent information overload for motorists.
5) Mixture of tour buses, construction-related heavy equipment and other
large vehicles in the traffic stream that can obscure and reduce the
viewing time for passenger cars and SUVs.
6) East-west routes need to consider the impacts of message legibility
during sunrise and sunset hours.
7) The brightness of the DMS can be reduced during adverse weather
conditions such as blizzards, fog, rain and snow, thus reducing the
viewing range for motorists.
D. DMS messages must be displayed and changed in a timely manner to provide
accurate and reliable information. The significance of accurate and timely DMS
message displays cannot be overemphasized; it correlates back to credibility and
trust in the Town's DMS system.
C KirnleyHom
and Associates, Inc.
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,maor 9 ` Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
Minimum Viewing Distance of New DMS
The maximum length of message that should be shown on a DMS at a location depends
not only on the perception, visual acuity and information processing capabilities of the
motorist, but also on how far away they can see the DMS, read its message and make a
decision.
Candidate locations for DMS placement in the Town are the North and South Frontage
Roads. The posted speed limits along the frontage roads appear in Table 3.
Table 3: Vail F
South Frontage Road: Between Ford Park
and Ever Vail
Road Posted Speed Limits
25 mph (37 fps)
All other frontage road locations
45 mph (66 fps)
The viewing and legibility of a DMS are composed of two parameters: the
perception/reaction time and the reading/decision time. All of this must be accomplished
within the viewing angle of the selected DMS. We also know from the existing DMS
message sequences previously discussed that at least 50% of the message displays
contain four lines of information, which will require a longer comprehension time for
motorists. Accordingly, Table 4 contains an estimate of minimum DMS viewing
distances.
Table 4: Estimated Minimum DMS Viewinq Distances
South Frontage Road between Ford 296 feet 1 seconds 7 seconds
Park and Ever Vail
All other frontage road locations 528 feet 1 seconds 7 seconds
DMS Technology Choices
The vast majority of DMS manufacturers utilize LED technology in either a line matrix or
full matrix configuration. The current DMS are line matrix signs and it is recommended
that the Town consider full matrix signs for its next deployment. Full matrix signs offer
more flexibility to the user in that they support graphics capabilities in addition to text
displays. Furthermore, full matrix signs are available in both amber (monochrome) and
full color. A full color, full matrix sample sign is shown in Figure 11. None of the Town's
current signs have graphics capabilities or the ability to display more than one color.
A human factors study assessed the effects of adding graphics to DMS messages. Two
approaches were employed in the study - a questionnaire survey and a video-based
driving simulation experiment - were reported along with the findings. The questionnaire
surveyed drivers' preferences concerning the addition of graphics to a text message, the
color of the message, alternative graphic images, placement of the graphic image,
CMn Kirnley-Han
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nillOI PAIL'
image contrast, flashing and the framing of graphic images
survey results uncovered the following conclusions:'
1. Drivers had a strong preference for graphic-
aided messages over text-only messages.
2. Drivers preferred amber or color messages
over green or red colored messages.
3. Drivers expected the location of graphics to
be left of the text.
4. Drivers expected specific graphics to Figure 11 -Full Color, Full Matrix Sample
accompany certain text messages. These
specific graphics tended to be familiar images such as the Manual of Uniform
Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) standard shapes.
Based on the survey results, a video-based driving simulation experiment was designed
and utilized to test drivers' responses to selected DMS messages surveyed in the
questionnaire. Results of the experiment showed the following:'
5. Graphic-aided messages displayed in amber or green were responded to nearly
35% faster than other settings.
6. Older drivers' responses were slower and less accurate than others;
nevertheless, their responses improved significantly when the DMS messages
were enhanced with graphics.
7. Graphic-aided messages helped improve the responses of non-native English
speaking drivers.
The results of the experiments establish a compelling reason for the Town to seriously
consider the use of full color, full matrix DMS.
Preparing for NTCIP in Conjunction with the Use of CDOT's
Colorado Traffic Management Software (CTS)
NTCIP is a family of standards that define protocols and profiles that are open,
consensus-based data communications standards. The continual development and
version control of these standards documents are overseen by the following Standards
Development Organizations (SDO):
• American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO)
• Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE)
• National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA)
' Collyer, C.E., Hesar, S.G., Wang, J.H. Adding Graphics to Dynamic Message Signs. Transportation
Research Board, Volume 2018, 2007, pages 63 - 71.
Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
Statistical analysis of
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TO~i'OTYr~i Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
The Town will need to adopt NTCIP for their DMS deployments in order to facilitate
remote control using the CTMS application. The use of NTCIP will help the Town
achieve interchangeability for its DMS infrastructure (i.e., not locked in to a specific DMS
manufacturer) and interoperability through CTMS.
Since NTCIP is new to Public Works and IT, a standards framework appears in Figure
12 below that can be matched up to the International Organization for Standardization's
(ISO) Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) seven layer reference model. In the case of
NTCIP, there are only five layers: Plant, Subnetwork, Transport, Application and
Information.
IT5 Data Mod?] :-x 1+ Fun-lion al Aj-i~3 Data Di tiondi1?s rr r xc .u a, TtiJILiI , .ATI5, TCIP It'vl
Ref rencp trkxiel ITS Message Sets Films Nnarnic Obi-nts
f1NiQr1].iY. 414. f. ; 2'.
Information L*veI lnfvnnatir,n Level
=C~'(6.. a 4 eTE?'.::•, FTI'.ar F Tf :rye= 5h11:'iL' o~xt%1tifF' ssr~-z!3;
Fihe- - m Le----_-__--_----_-.______ El;dir::t~e~r~Level
_
5
I uTMi I
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S01NET
Sanes sslz rlr?in F f tet ~cl~rm
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Fiber k 3~s I Tbist~IF'aii TJ-o Line ( I'a~direl s
V1, 0A Level `NA all combinations betrwen dv Subnety oak and P6ra Lk els are feasible. P ant Level
Figure 12: NTCIP Standards Framework
KirnleyNom
and Associates, Inc. 29
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71OP ) , Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
BWI
The standards related to the Town's first implementation of NTCIP-compliant DMS
appear in Table 5 below.
Table 5: NTCIP Related to DMS
Document Number &
Document
Version
NTCIP 1101:1996 v01.12
Simple Transportation Management Framework STMF
NTCIP 1102:2005
Octet Encoding Rules OER) Base Protocol
NTCIP 1103 v02.10b
Transportation Management Protocols TMP
NTCIP 1201:2005 v02.32
Global Object (GO) Definitions
NTCIP 1203 v02.35a RS
Object Definitions for DMS
NTCIP 2001:1996 &
Amendment 1
Class B Profile
NTCIP 2104:2003 v01.11
Ethernet Subnetwork Profile*
NTCIP 2201:2003 v01.15
Transportation Transport Profile
NTCIP 2202:2001
Internet TCP/IP and UDP/IP Transport Profile
NTCIP 2301:2001
Simple Transportation Management Framework (STMF)
Application Profile
'Assumes Point-to-Multi Point Protocol (PMPP) and Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP) using RS-232 will not be
utilized by the Town of Vail.
Finally, the procurement of DMS-related hardware and software from manufacturers
must undergo a conformance and certification process to ensure compliance with the
NTCIP standards. The Town, at its option, may opt to have IT perform the NTCIP
certification process in-house for each DMS manufacturer that it utilizes. However, the
best option is to allow for a 3rd party Independent Verification and Validation (IVV) to be
performed and a certificate issued to the Town. The cost of the IVV should be
considered as included as part of the cost of procuring the DMS and not paid for
separately.
Recommended Manufacturer
Daktronics full-color, full-matrix Dynamic Message Sign
DMS manufacturers of interest to Vail were compared based upon their signs functions,
features, and characteristics. Comparisons were presented to Town staff and are
attached in Appendix A. The consultants and Town staff both agreed in selecting
Daktronics as the DMS manufacturer. More specifically, the Daktronics full-color, full-
matrix signs were chosen. Daktronics conducted a field demo to compare various DMS
technologies. A 12" character height was recommended for the freeway off-ramp DMS
and a 9" character height for frontage road DMS.
Kirdey-Han
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7OW71rvA Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
DMS Options
VL vs. VF Series
There are two different DMS series under consideration; the VL and VF series. Both
support the NTCIP transportation standards. However, the VL series was adapted from
Daktronics commercial product line and does not have all of the transportation industry
functions and features that the VF series has. A side-by-side comparison is provided in
Appendix B. The main features not available in the VL series are that there is no
redundant power supply and no diagnostics feedback. However, the VL series is less
expensive than the VF series. If the additional features are not critical relative to the
additional expense, then the VL series could be a viable option. Spare parts could be
ordered and stocked to help minimize downtime of components.
Louvered vs. Masked Face
The masked face is a polycarbonate panel protecting the LED housing whereas the r3
louvered face has exposed LEDs. They ' smasked face provides greater protection
against vandalism. However, the masked
face is not available in the less expensive VL Photo 5 - Louvered face Photo 6 - Masked face
series, as discussed in the previous section.
The louvered face offers the advantage of a greater viewing angle (70 or 90 degrees vs.
30 degrees). However, viewing angle is not a critical design feature for the anticipated
installations since traffic will be approaching the DMS on a relatively straight sightline.
Ground-Mount vs. Overhead DMS Installations
Two different DMS installations are being considered for
the off-ramp locations; the overhead DMS and the ground-
mount DMS. The frontage road DMS will all be ground-
mount in the median.
Pros of Overhead DMS
■ Best viewing location
■ No occlusion from other vehicles (i.e., view of sign
will not be blocked by vehicles in front of driver or
by trucks parked on side of ramp)
■ Less susceptible to vandalism
Pros of Ground-Mount DMS
■ Easier access for maintenance
■ Less obtrusive design
■ Could be less expensive, depending upon
mounting option
C KiNeyHom
® and Associates, Inc. 31 a pexd es i g n
Photo 7 - Overhead DMS example
Photo 8 - Ground-mount DMS example
Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
There are different installation
methods for each mounting option.
Photos 7 and 8 illustrate two different
examples of ground-mounted VMS
types. Please note that these are only
samples of existing installations and
are note representative of the
aesthetics proposed for the Town of
Vail.
The example in Figure 13 shows the
less expensive ground-mount option
that could be used for either Full DMS
or the Static Panel with DDMS insert.
C t• n KirrileyHom
t• and Associates, Inc.
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7DorY~ Y Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
Off-Ramp Design Alternatives
This section discusses design alternatives for the freeway off-ramps, along with the pros
and cons of each choice. The median signs installation is not under evaluation because
it has already been agreed upon that it should be a ground-mount, full DMS.
The two alternatives under evaluation for the off-
ramps are:
■ Full DMS (see Figure 14); and
■ Static sign with DMS panel (see Figure 15)
Each of the two alternatives also has various
installation and aesthetic options.
Pros of Full DMS
■ Can be used for other messages besides parking
■ Can display multiple message sets
■ Lends itself better to aesthetic enhancements
Pros of Static Sign with DDMS Panel
■ Slightly less expensive than Full DMS
■ Easier maintenance due to fewer
components
■ Fully NTCIP compliant and would work with
the same software as the Full DMS
■ A larger sign can be used to display all of
the information shown in Figure 15 in a
single panel
■ DDMS modules can be added and the static
sign can be remanufactured to add
information about future parking structures
(e.g., Ford Park or EverVail)
Recommended DMS Series
Daktronics VL-3500 Series Full Dynamic Sign:
■ Off-Ramp - 3' 10" x 12'0" x 8", louvered, 20mm pixel pitch
■ Median - 3' 10" x 6' 9" x 8", louvered, 20mm pixel pitch
C-~ KideyHom
® and Associates, Inc.
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Figure 14 - Full DMS message set
Sri Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
TO O
Software
This section compares two different software packages to communicate with the DMS.
Vanguard vs. CTMS software
Vanguard is the DMS software developed and
supported by Daktronics. The Colorado
Transportation Management Software (CTMS) is the
DMS software developed by CDOT. The Daktronics
software comes free with the DMS. The CDOT
software would also be provided free. However, a
Daktronics software driver would need to be
developed in order for the CTMS application to
accept the DMS. Daktronics will provide a Software
Developers Kit (SDK) to CDOT for computer
programmers to create the interface with the DMS
display.
Pros of Vanguard Software
Figure 16 -Vanguard software
Works with, and supported by, Daktronics. CDOT does not currently operate any
full-matrix or full color signs. CDOT claims to have developed an interface for
such DMS, but it is a risk as to whether it will work without further modifications
and programming. Whereas, the Daktronics software does not need driver
development
Does not rely on CDOT programming and support for upgrades and
troubleshooting with new operating systems or other updates
Compatible with Wanco portable DMS since they are NTCIP compliant
Pros of CTMS Software
Would provide viewing and sharing of operational control between CDOT and
Vail staff
Also works with Wanco portable signs
Can view other CDOT ITS devices, excluding CCTVs. However, this can be
accomplished through CDOT's CoTrip.org website, if desired.
Software Recommendation
■ Daktronics Vanguard software for initial deployment
■ Test CDOT CTMS application if interested
Cin Kimley-Han
and Associates, Inc.
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Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
Costs
Below are costs for each of the DMS under consideration. The tables are separated by
location; freeway off-ramp or frontage roads. It should be noted that numerous DMS
sizes are available from Daktronics. The recommended DMS series are highlighted in
yellow.
Costs for DMS Equipment Only
Table 6: Off-Ramp DMS Costs (12" Characters, 3 lines by 13 characters)
DMS Type Size Cost
VF-2300 Full Matrix (louvered) / 20 mm 4'2" x 10'5" x 1' 1" $ 46,455
VF-2400
Full Matrix (masked) / 34 mm
6'7" x 10'x 1'2"
$48,695
VL-3500 *
Full Matrix (louvered, no diagnostics) / 20 mm
3' 10" x 12'0" x 8"
$22,570
VM-1000 DMS insert for static panel / 46 mm 1' 10" x 4' 8" x 2" $13,766
*Recommended sign
Table 7: Frontage Road DMS Costs (9" Characters, 3 lines by 12 characters)
DMS Type Size Cost
VF-2300 Full Matrix (louvered) / 20 mm 4' 2" x 7' 3" x 1' 1" $35,595
VL-3500 *
Full Matrix (louvered, no diagnostics) / 20 mm
3'10" x 6'9" x 8"
$14,157
*Recommended sign
Costs for Installation
This section provides preliminary opinions of probable costs for installing DMS in each of
the configurations under evaluation. Detailed line item costs can be found in Appendix
C. Costs do NOT include communications equipment and do NOT include architectural
enhancements (e.g., stonework, etc.).
Table 8: DMS Construction Costs
Installation Option DIVIS Installation Architectural Total
Cost Cost C
t C
t
os
os
Overhead - Full DMS $22,570 $67,080
Overhead - Static Sign with DDMS Panels
$13,766
$70,395
Ground-Mount - Full DMS on off-ramp
$22,570
$44,330
Ground-Mount - Full DMS on steel posts on
$22
570
$39
884
off-ramp
,
,
Ground-Mount - Full DMS in median
$14,157
$39,390
Ground-Mount - Static Sign w/DDMS on steel
$13,766
$36
699
posts on off-ram
,
Full DMS is assumed to be a Series VL-3500
C=/1 Kirtdey-Han
, and Associates, inc. 35 apexdesign
3
Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
wWof 1qA
Maintenance
Routine preventative maintenance should be performed on the DMS. A DMS
Preventative Maintenance Checklist prepared by Daktronics is included in Appendix D.
The following spare parts are recommended for quicker maintenance and repair:
■ Controller
■ Power supply
• 1/O Board
■ Two modules for each display type
Annual maintenance costs are estimated to be between $1,000 and $3,000. The lower
end of the cost range is for the VMS panels within the static sign and the higher end of
the cost range is for the Full VMS installed over traffic. The frequency of maintenance
events may be more in Vail given the snow patterns. For example, the front panel may
need to be cleaned after each major snowstorm event.
Operations
Operations costs are directly related to the time spent by personnel operating the VMS
and by the power consumption (i.e., utility bill) of the sign. Operations costs are likely to
be absorbed into the current duties and responsibilities of personnel. Until operational
guidelines are established and roles and responsibilities are clearly defined, the
associated operational costs cannot be determined. Operational roles and
responsibilities will, at a minimum, include:
■ Determining messages
■ Posting, and removing, messages (with an emphasis on parking initially)
■ Coordinated with other stakeholders (Vail Resorts, CDOT, Eagle County)
Based on information provided through the United States Department of Transportation
(USDOT) ITS database, the average life cycle for DMS and portable DMS are 10 years
and 14 years, respectively. The life cycle is based on the reported length of time before
failures forced a transportation agency to consider replacement of a DMS.
For the Town of Vail's estimated annual DMS operating cost, the following assumptions
have been made:
■ The typical power usage for each DMS will be based on a partially illuminated
LED sign (15% of the pixels utilized at full intensity), the sign controller and
ventilation fan or defogging system (if equipped). It excludes maintenance
convenience receptacles, equipment cabinet, external communications
equipment, lights and other auxiliary equipment.
■ The average annual operating time for each DMS will be based on 12 hours per
day, which results in an annual operating time of 4,380 hours each year.
C KideyHan
od Amiates, Im. 36 a pex d es i g n
Bi~c~rYi Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
■ The cost of each kilowatt-hour (KW/hr) is 7.92¢ based on the average retail price
of electricity for the commercial sector in Colorado during May 2009 as reported
by the United States Department of Energy.
The resultant operational cost for each DMS type appears in Table 9. The
recommended DMS series are highlighted in yellow.
Table 9: Off-Ramp DMS Construction Costs
Annual
DIVIS Series
Size
Typical Power
Annual
Operating
Cost per
Operating
Cost per
Usage (KW)
Hours
KW-hr
Year
(2009 dollars)
Off-Ramp
VF-2300
4'2" x 10'5" x 11 "
2.191
4,380
7.92
$760
VF-2400
67' x 10' x 1'2"
0.665
4,380
7.920
$231
VL-3500
3'10" x 12'0" x 8"
0.616
4,380
7.92
$214
VM-1000
1'10" x 4'8" x 2"
0.190`
4,380
7.92
$66
Frontage Road
VF-2300
4'2" x 7'3" x 11 "
1.071
4,380
7.92
$372
VL-3500
3'10" x 6'9" x 8"
0.354
4,380
7.92¢
$123
* Maximum power usage based on based on two LED panels for Lionshead and Vail Village parking info.
Power usage will increase 0.095 KW for each additional LED panel installed for future parking garages.
Basis for usage assumes that each LED panel is fully illuminated (50% pixels at 100% intensity) along with
sign controller, DDMS cabinet ventilation and external communication equipment within DDMS cabinet.
Life Cycle Costs
Life cycle costs are presented in this section and include capital costs, annual
maintenance costs, and annual operating costs. As mentioned in the previous section,
the "life" of the sign is assumed to be 10 years.
Off-Ramp DMS
■ Capital costs
x6t)
■ Annual maintenance costs - $2,000
■ Annual operating costs - $214
Total 10-year life cycle cost -
Median DMS
■ Capital costs -
■ Annual maintenance costs - $1,000
■ Annual operating costs - $123
Total 10-year life cycle cost -
C_r, " Kimley-Han
and Associates, Inc.
37
apexdesign
W Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) Master Plan and Design
Portable DMS
This section recommends Wanco portable DMS to replace the
Precision Solar portable DMS currently owned by the Town. It is
recommended that the Wanco Mini Matrix Message Sign, Model
WVTM be procured. This sign is a full-matrix, solar DMS that is
tower by a trailer. The sign display is 4' 7" high x 8' wide.
Wanco is recommended because CDOT uses them and they are
proven to work in the Vail Valley. Also, CDOT has written a driver
for Wanco signs through the CTMS application. As mentioned
previously, staff would be able to communicate to both the
Daktronics and Wanco signs via a single software program (either
Daktronics' Vanguard software or CDOT's CTMS application)
assuming remote communications are in place.
Figure 13 - Wanco Portable DMS
The price is approximately $15,500 per portable DMS. This price includes the complete
DMS and a more substantial solar panel for use in Vail. Additional information, and
specifications, can be found at www.wanco.com.
Portable DIMS Recommendation
Wanco Mini Matrix
~i/~ KirrdeyHorn
I and Associates, Inc.
38
apexdesign
r
Pagel of 2
Warren Campbell - RE: Vail DMS DRB results
From: "Pedro Campos"
To: "Todd Oppenheimer", "Tom Kassmel" , "Warren Campbell"
Date: 9/17/2009 10:30 AM
Subject: RE: Vail DMS DRB results
CC: , , "Anne F. Gunion"
Todd:
Thanks for the detailed recap of the DRB deliberation about the DMS project signs and meeting with me
yesterday to discuss in advance. I'll take the feedback received and apply to the next round. Was it approved /
discussed to use the Town of Vail logo / emblem for the monuments or to seek out other alternatives? For the
next round as we get more specific I wanted to further investigate and reflect the materials, etc... but only if
assured the use of the logo was approved. And in light of the 'cheesy' comment. Otherwise we can leave it
as a place holder in the next round to be determined later and if there is no consensus of what should be used.
I suppose discarding the logo idea altogether is an option too and will save costs.
Tom:
We should probably huddle as a team toward the next steps and DRB meeting so hopefully it's the last round
before approval. Can you indicate contemplated dates for the next DRB meetings and when we might meet (or
have a conference call) to discuss a game plan, etc...?
Regards,
Pedro Campos, ASLA / RLA
Senior Landscape Architect & Land Planner
pcampos@vagarchitects.com / _Land-hr@vagarchitects.com
VAg, Inc.
Architects & Planners
970.949.7034 PO Box 1734
970.949.8134 fax Vail, CO 81658-1734
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file://CADocuments and Settings\Administrator\Local Settings\Temp\XPgrpwise\4AB20... 09/18/2009
4
Page 2 of 2
From: Todd Oppenheimer [mailto:TOppenheimer@vailgov.com]
Sent: Wednesday, September 16, 2009 4:41 PM
To: Pedro Campos; Pedro Campos; Tom Kassmel; Warren Campbell
Subject: Vail DMS DRB results
The application was tabled at the owners request. The DRB only wanted to take action on the signs locations
that are to be installed immediately. I was not sure but thought that may include the 2 off rams and the Solaris
installation. We can change that at the next hearing if necessary. Generally, the overhead sign on the off
ramps were supported by the members. I would suggest we add detail to the section to show the required
guardrail, the roadside swale, actual edge of pavement, and white line.
The median options 3 and 4 were most favorably considered by the members. However, the logo structure
above was termed "cheesy". The suggestions for Option 3 was to moved the angle column tops down closer to
the top of the message board and place the logo beneath. I was also mentioned the stone needs to be taller to
be more proportional to the message board. I presented Option 3 as the preferred because it is more
transparent and less heavy than a solid stone monument. Some members agreed. The suggestions for Option
4 were similar in nature. Remove the logo from the top and place it beneath the sign board. This option also
needs to be redrawn to the 3' x 8' sign board and put in context of the median cross section.
At the next submittal the DRB is requesting a landscape plan for all locations being submitted for approval.
They are in favor of trees in the medians and are concerned about the impacts the signs will have on the
design.
Please call me if you have any questions.
Todd Oppenheimer, RLA
Town of Vai I
Department of Public Works
1309 Elkhorn Drive
Vail, CO 81657
(970) 479-2161
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