Responses to a Commuter Survey Regarding Travel Times on Changeable Message Signs in San Francisco Bay Area

This paper presents the results of a commuter survey in the San Francisco Bay Area following the implementation of an automated system to display travel times on Changeable Message Signs (CMS). In an initial pilot phase, Caltrans began broadcasting travel time messages in May, 2005, at 2 locations on the I-80 corridor in Emeryville and Berkeley. The survey was conducted shortly thereafter with the objective to gather quantitative and qualitative data on how users perceived the project, how they appreciated the messages being broadcast on the signs, and how they thought the project could be improved. The survey combined on-line and write-in collection techniques. It was filled out by visitors of 511.org, a regional transportation information website, and I-80 commuters participating in informal “casual carpooling.” The surveys yielded a sample size of 953, and control questions ensured that the survey taker had some familiarity with the signs they were being asked about. On the whole, respondents were very positive about the signs, finding them useful and easy to read. Some respondents also voiced concerns over whether the travel times pertained to High-Occupancy Vehicles (HOV) or non-HOV users, and over perceived slowdowns resulting from other drivers reading the signs. Respondents also suggested improvements and additional destinations for future changes to the system.