The system uses adaptive methods to control traffic signaling on three of the city's busiest roads, and it uses SmartSensor to monitor traffic.
May 21, 2008
LINDON, UT—A unique intersection control system is helping to improve traffic flow in Tyler, Texas. The system uses adaptive methods to control traffic signaling on three of the city's busiest roads, and it uses SmartSensor to monitor traffic.
Last year, several SmartSensors were installed at mid-block locations to detect the number of vehicles on the road and the speed of traffic as it approaches the intersection; the sensors also determine whether vehicles are cars or trucks. The data is then sent to a traffic signal controller that can respond to the real-time conditions, holding or changing the light based on current traffic behavior.
The adaptive system, known as ACS-Lite, receives data from SmartSensor every five minutes and responds immediately to anything that affects traffic flow, including rush hours, weather and holidays. The mid-block detection was initially installed at 16 intersections, and city officials say they expect to see a 20 to 25 percent reduction in congestion. If the system is successful, officials say they will consider expanding it to include even more intersections.