OTTAWA, (Feb. 4, 2005) — Transport Canada and the Government of Alberta are partnering to bring Intelligent Transportation Systems to the province.

Under the deal, Ottawa and the Alberta government will each contribute $652,400 for the acquisition and installation of 19 Road Weather Information System stations along the National Highway System in Alberta. The two governments, with their partners, will provide an additional $500,000 each for ITS research and development.

Road Weather Information Systems comprise automated weather reporting stations with special sensors embedded in and below the road and on nearby towers. These systems collect detailed data on weather conditions at and near the road surface, which can help weather forecasters and highway maintenance personnel to predict icing conditions.

The data collecting from Road Weather Information System sensors along Alberta’s highways will help the province’s road authorities make informed decisions regarding snow and ice control resulting in safer roadways and less damage to the environment.

“These systems will enable Canadians to do their part for the environment by better planning trips and reducing travel times,” said Deputy Prime Minister Anne McLellan. “It will also prove to be cost effective for taxpayers.”

Transport Canada is concluding funding negotiations with the provinces and territories for the development of a cross-Canada Road Weather Information Systems network. The department will pay up to 50 per cent of eligible costs relating to the acquisition and installation of the system components, subject to the successful conclusion of contribution agreements with the provinces and territories, which are expected to pay the balance as well as the ongoing operation and maintenance costs.

As a condition of funding, provinces and territories are also required to enter into a data-sharing agreement with Environment Canada.

Federal funding will also be provided under the Strategic Highway Infrastructure Program (SHIP), a $600 million program to improve highway infrastructure across Canada.