DEVELOPMENT OF A GPS-GIS-BASED ROAD SIGNAGE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR SELECTED ARTERIAL ROADS

Abstract

Traffic signs, pavement markings and other road safety assets such as speed bumps are provided on roadway facilities to enhance traffic flow and safety. They will however perform their functions effectively if they meet the basic requirements of i. fulfill a need ii. command attention iii. convey a clear simple meaning iv. command respect from road users and v. give adequate time for proper response. It is noticed and rightfully observed by the Nigeria National Council on Works that these assets on Nigeria roads are not adequately managed and maintained. Some of them are not well positioned, some are missing and some others are damaged. There is therefore the need to assess the existing roadway assets, their conditions and adequacy, and generate a database needed for their effective operation, management and maintenance. The study thus aims at addressing the observed inadequacies by proffering a GPS-GIS-based solution. The objectives are to i. carry out an inventory of existing road signs and markings; ii. determine their adequacy or otherwise and iii. develop a GIS- based road signage management system. It is anticipated that the application of the developed system will enhance the performance of the agencies responsible for the operations of the road assets.