Although network disruptions and emergencies typically come without warning, there are steps we can take [PDF, 177 KB] so the effects of the emergency are minimised and the recovery is a fast as possible.
One of the building blocks for responding to these events are Emergency Preparedness and Procedures Plans. These plans are developed as part of our Network Outcomes Contracts (NOC). Our goal is to review and build on these as we improve our consistency across the Transport Agency. To do this we have two key approaches.
We have ERPs at three levels:
When unplanned disruptions hit our networks people still need to be able to finish their journeys as safely and as quickly as possible. Traditionally when a state highway was closed, paper maps and information were hauled from cupboards or folders, and detours set up for travelers to follow.
What the Transport Agency saw was a need for a tool that could be used to establish a detour as quickly as possible and could be used out in the field.
We, at the Transport Agency, took the mountain of approved maps and information from around the country and digitised it to create an online detour routes tool.
https://detours-staging.myworksites.co.nz/(external link)
We worked with a number of key people and organisations to develop the best alternative routes including the NZ Police, councils, Network Outcomes Contract suppliers and TOCs. Without appropriate agreed detour routes, the risk and cost from unexpected disruptions would be much higher and contentious.
Now, with this tool it takes just a handful of clicks for users to identify the agreed detour routes, comparative distance and travel times, which vehicle types each route is suitable for, and other key pieces of information. Initial feedback on the tool when presented to emergency services has been very positive.
The tool is constantly being updated with new information and in time we hope to see versions released with other information such as where rest stops and food outlets sit along detour routes, or how many extra speed signs or temporary road markings a detour route would need once established.
The tool has other possible uses as well, such as in transport planning studies to assess the resilience and associated responses for road corridor or local network studies. Or in prioritising local road maintenance activities and levels of service.
For further information contact resilience@nzta.govt.nz.
