Oahu traffic
Web site is runningPolice and the city collaborate to
provide an online offering of traffic updates
Before they hit the road, Oahu motorists now can log on to the Internet for traffic updates from Honolulu police.
"This is one way of trying to assist the public by providing real-time information as it is happening, in the interest of improving our overall traffic management functions," said Maj. Douglas Miller, of the Honolulu Police Department's Traffic Division.
The city Department of Information Technology collaborated with the Police Department to create the new Web page, which was posted on the county's main Web site last month.
The Web page posts the type of traffic incident, time and where the incident occurred. The last digit on addresses is replaced with an "X" for privacy reasons. Incidents include traffic complaints, stalled vehicles, hazardous drivers and accidents.
The Web page is available 24 hours a day and updates automatically every 30 seconds. Data comes from the HPD's Computer Aided Dispatch system.
"It's like a little window into our dispatch database," said Capt. John Thompson, of the HPD's Information Technology Division.
Sgt. Robert Lung, of the Traffic Division, noted: "This was developed to help motorists on their way to work. Its main purpose was to scan for any traffic crash en route to their destination.
"It's helpful in identifying any incidents that would slow traffic down."
California has a similar Web page with real-time information and other features, said Lung.
The city's Information Technology department and HPD worked on the Web page for six months before it was posted on the city's Web site.
Honolulu Traffic Management Center officials also use the new resource to locate traffic troubles.
"If there is a camera, we would focus on that particular area," said Lung, who is at the center every morning.
The Web page is especially beneficial for delivery truck drivers, tour bus companies and cabdrivers who need to reach their destination at a specific time, said Courtney Harrington, director for the Information Technology department.
"They really need to know where the roads are congested. They need to get around in a quick amount of time and not idle by," said Harrington.
Officials said they are looking into adding more features to the Web site to help motorists with their commute, such as a map of Oahu's freeways that shows how traffic is moving.
To check the traffic reports, go to www4.co.honolulu.hi.us/hpdtraffic, or go to the county's Web page www.co.honolulu.hi.us/menu/government and click on "Honolulu Traffic Incidents, live from HPD dispatch."