The PA 2040 initiative utilizes wireless service to improve maintenance and transportation management and user experience on the Pennsylvania Ave corridor in Washington D.C. The foundation for the system is envisioned as a
pervasive mesh Wi-Fi network. The Wi-Fi will serve to provide free internet access to the public, secure services to public safety entities, and extend connectivity for environmental sensors. In addition, the Light Sensory Network will bring advanced wireless networking, advanced sensors (e.g., video), and edge-based processing of real-time street data to the LED streetlights to solve parking, traffic, public safety, and street operations and maintenance issues on the corridor. A sampling of the capabilities includes wayfinding, parking demand management, improved maintenance response times and emergency response management. Analytics from the public Wi-Fi will also allow for greater information about the origins of corridor visitors to enable a more customized user experience with language options. The analytics could help improve overall planning and programming of the public space.
This project could benefit citizens by creating faster parking information, reduced crime at night and improved emergency response times. It could benefit the City by reducing 311 calls and maintenance for lights.
Team Information: PA 2040-Kurt Einwaechter Cisco, Mamta Sodikumar, DC Office of the Chief Technology Officer (OCTO), Ted Jutras Golden TKen Walton NCPC, Ohio University, DDOT, GW UniversityKen Walton, National Capital Planning Commission, Local and Federal government, University with private sector tech companies.
The lighting response was designed to address issues raised by NCPC, and their partner agencies in the Pennsylvania Avenue planning study, but has shifted west and added solar streets. The shift creates a focus on Smart Streets with the Golden Triangle BID, and the District of Columbia governments Office of the Chief Technology Officer. leading the way. Smart Lights have the potential to address areas regarding the Visitor Experience, ‘Dark Sky”, Activation and Animation, Street Operations, Parking, Security, Energy, passive way finding, history and other questions common to both The Golden Triangle Business Improvement District and OCTO, NCPC.
