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Freeway Service Patrol (FSP)

Bay Area Freeway Service Patrol
Communications/Vehicle Tracking System

Purpose of System
A key feature of the San Francisco Bay Area Freeway Service Patrol (FSP) program is a state-of-the-art, computerized communications/automatic vehicle location system that makes surveillance and management of the 74-truck fleet more efficient. Using the latest technology, this system allows communication between California Highway Patrol (CHP) dispatchers and on-the-scene tow trucks. This, in turn, ensures that the nearest available truck is dispatched to quickly clear freeway lanes and help motorists with disabled vehicles. The system allows sponsors to closely supervise tow truck drivers, validate invoices and compile statistics to evaluate the program.

Communications
Communication between the FSP tow trucks, the CHP supervisory vehicles and the CHP Dispatch Operations Center in Vallejo is accomplished through a combination of voice as well as digital data messages. The tow truck driver uses a small, on-board computer to send vehicle status information over the air to the Dispatch Operations Center. The same computer receives messages from the dispatcher. Using digital messages rather than voice communication allows for a rapid response to emergency situations. The ability to send messages back and forth significantly reduces the dispatcher's workload.

Vehicle Tracking
The automatic vehicle location (AVL) component determines the precise location of each tow truck. This information is automatically transmitted to the CHP center in Vallejo for processing and is displayed on a computerized map of the Bay Area. The display system uses icons, or symbols, which change color to show the status of each vehicle. By using color, the dispatcher knows whether a truck is assisting a motorist or is available to answer calls. The AVL system also provides information on each truck's direction and speed.

The vehicle position capability relies on the global positioning system (GPS), a satellite system deployed by the U.S. government for defense purposes. The GPS is designed to provide precise time and position information to land-based, sea-based and airborne platforms. Each FSP vehicle is equipped with a receiver that receives signals from a number of GPS satellites. The vehicle's location is determined by processing these signals.

Benefits
The capability to display the location, direction, speed and status of all of the FSP vehicles greatly enhances the dispatcher's ability to track and manage the fleet. It also makes it easier to assign the nearest, available tow truck to the scene of an incident.

Contractors
A new contractor for the communications/AVL contract is Cantech International, based in Canada. Cantech International will integrate the work of the other subcontractors. Ball Systems, based in San Diego, is providing the central computer and management reporting capability. Champion Communications and Mentor Engineering, both based in San Jose, are providing the wireless data network equipment, mobile data computers and GPS receivers. Nextel, a company located in Oakland and Hayward, is providing the over-the-air service and maintenance for all radio equipment.

For information regarding FSP tow operations, contact:

Raymond Odunlami , FSP Program Coordinator
Metropolitan Transportation Commission
101 8th St
Oakland, CA 94607
510-817-5799
email: rodunlami@mtc.ca.gov

Main FSP page