About the IaRTN

The Iowa DOT plans to deploy a statewide RTK (Real Time Kinematic) -GPS network using existing DOT facilities and wide area network (WAN) communications infrastructure. In 2006, the Iowa DOT conducted a business model study to examine the potential models for a RTK-GPS network deployment and operations.

The study results helped the Iowa DOT develop a business model that best suits the needs of the department. Under the model, the Iowa DOT owns the system, but contracts out the system administration and management. The RTK-GPS network will be used for Iowa DOT applications, and is available for other governmental agencies and private sector users.

After a thorough evaluation process, including a written proposal and installation of demonstration networks by competing firms, Leica Geosystems was selected to install, integrate and maintain the IaRTN. Leica is currently in the preliminary engineering stage of the project, which will be followed by installation and testing of the network. Leica's schedule is to have the network completed, tested and accepted by the Iowa DOT by Dec. 1, 2008. The project schedule is subject to change.