Making Smartway a Reality

Introduction

<1>	As the 21st century approaches, Japan needs to apply the development of advanced technologies in the field of sophisticated information technology, to lead the nation toward a new socioeconomic structure. In the field of road traffic, great strides are being made in research, development and application of an intelligent traffic system (ITS) using advanced information and communications technology. This development will realize a radical, far-reaching solution to the worsening social problems of traffic accidents, traffic congestion and environmental pollution, while using the nation's road infrastructure to enhance socioeconomic activity and make life more fulfilling and rewarding for individual citizens. To serve as the core for this advanced ITS technology, an intelligent roadway (a Smartway) will be needed.
<2>	This proposal is the summation of a large body of knowledge gathered in an interdisciplinary and international fashion, in which the definition of Smartway, its effects, its functions and the approaches by which it is to be accomplished are all carefully examined with a view to making Smartway a reality.
<3>	This proposal will serve as a guide with which to marshal the cooperation of related parties to bring Smartway to fruition as early as possible.

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