KS Engineers, P.C. (KSE) provided comprehensive traffic sign inventory, condition assessment, asset management, and implementation services for approximately 50,000 traffic signs throughout the City of Newark, New Jersey. The project was undertaken to establish an accurate, geospatially referenced sign database; evaluate the physical and functional condition of existing signs; identify signs requiring replacement, relocation, repair, or removal; and provide the City with a sustainable technology platform for long-term maintenance, regulatory compliance, and operational decision-making. KSE’s work supported improved traffic control device management, enhanced public safety, and more efficient allocation of municipal maintenance resources.
The field data collection program included development of a complete roadway video log using a five-camera, van-mounted, GPS-enabled 360-degree GEOVISTA data acquisition system. This mobile platform captured high-resolution imagery and precise location data for signs, posts, supports, and related roadside assets throughout the municipal roadway network. KSE performed visual condition assessments to document sign legibility, orientation, mounting condition, damage, obstruction, fading, sheeting condition, and compliance-related attributes. Attribute extraction was performed to populate the inventory database with sign type, legend, size, material, support configuration, installation location, roadway association, and other relevant asset characteristics. KSE also conducted nighttime retroreflectivity assessments to evaluate sign visibility under low-light conditions and to support prioritization consistent with traffic safety objectives. Based on collected data, KSE prepared a priority report identifying recommended sign replacements, repairs, removals, and eliminations, allowing the City to address deficiencies systematically.
KSE also developed and implemented a modern web-based traffic sign inventory and management system using the SignCAD and SignTRACK software platform. The system was configured to support asset tracking, sign design, maintenance planning, and integration with the Newark Sign Shop’s sign design and fabrication workflow. Field data updates were enabled through iPad-based applications developed for mobile use, allowing City personnel to access, verify, and update sign records directly from the field. The mobile interface provided mapping functionality through Google Maps and ArcGIS basemaps, with connectivity to ArcGIS Online or ArcGIS Server for geospatial visualization and data management. The SignTRACK system also incorporated work order management capabilities to create, assign, track, and report sign replacement and repair activities. By integrating field inventory, condition assessment, GIS mapping, sign fabrication support, and maintenance tracking into a unified platform, KSE delivered a scalable asset management solution that improved accountability, streamlined workflows, strengthened regulatory compliance, and supported Newark’s ongoing traffic operations and roadway safety programs.
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