Low-Cost Geographic Information System for Municipal Road Signs Management in Depopulated and Low-Density Areas

The current national and regional economical conjuncture in many countries, requires a sustainable management of different urban infrastructures, including road signs. From the set of possible solutions to improve the existing infrastructure's management, analysis and spatial representation, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have proved to be an essential tool for the functional competencies of local administration (municipalities), managers of municipal road networks. This study presents a framework of existing national regulations on road signs, as well as the shortcomings in the definition of methodologies for GIS-based management systems implementation. The paper continues with the critical assumptions considered in their definition and the municipalities specific competences needed for their implementation. A low-cost methodology is proposed and applied to a case study in a small Portuguese village: Belmonte. The results have shown the potential of these low-cost systems, revealing relevant time and economical gains, providing municipalities with fundamental information for the definition of realistic and well-founded strategic plans and budgets, and allowing better information to their citizens. The gathered information can help in inventory, inspections, maintenance and replacement allowing detailed reports and geo-referenced electronic database and maps of a municipality's road signs at reasonable costs. These maps and reports are the starting point to forecast the projected lifespan of the municipality's signage allowing more accurate project sign management budgets for future years. Aspects that need further development in order to improve the proposed system are also addressed.