FasTrak Traffic tracking...

[M-Fünf]

I receieved a notice in the mail last week from FasTrak. FasTrak manages the automatic toll collection program for California toll roads/bridges.

The memo described a new system for tracking traffic on Bay Area roads based on the average speed of vehicles using those roads. The method for tracking speeds will be to ping FasTrack transponders (the ones mounted on the windshield). As you drive, sensors located in/on/around the road will read your transponder ID at point A and point B. This will give them a "speed". The computer will average the speeds of vehicles to determine if traffic is slow in that area.

Included with the memo was a mylar bag in which you can place your transponder if you do NOT wish to participate in the program (evidently, they cant ping your transponder through the bag). BUT, you will need to remove the transponder from the bag when going through a toll collection point.

FasTrak specifically stated that the information collected from your transponder will be immediately scrambled when it is read, and all information will be deleted in a real-time fashion after your speed is calculated.

The information will be available to the general public via a website. In the future, it is possible that the information will be used to send out alerts through smart radios (like in parts of Europe)

What do you think? Invasion of privacy, or advanced technology for the betterment of our already packed roadways?

[Bart Carter]

I think this can go the way of traffic signal cameras and will eventually be used to send you a speeding ticket. But then, I could be paranoid.