Transportation Initiatives For Better Quality of Life
Traffic congestion
is a major problem in boroughs in every part of the state. The steadily
increasing number of vehicles on our roadways and the rising number of
trips per motorist have hindered our ability to move freely about our
communities. Many municipal officials who have searched for answers have
been left in a quandary.
However, traffic signals can play an important part in mitigating the
congestion problem. Proper timing, phasing, and coordination of traffic
signals can reduce travel and delay times and provide environmental and
safety benefits. For instance, a reduction in wait time at traffic signals
decreases the amount of harmful emissions released by vehicles. Furthermore,
closed loop traffic signal systems can increase the efficiency of traffic
signals by interconnecting a series of signals to a central controller.
The term closed loop refers to the "information circuit" created
by interconnecting signals to one another and then to a master controller.
A closed loop system connects a series of traffic signals providing communications
between the individual intersections. There are several means of communication
such as fiber-optic cable, spread spectrum radio and hard wire connection.
A master traffic signal controller supervises the individual intersection
controllers. Closed loop systems can report detailed information back
to a central computer that monitors the systems operation.
By adding system detectors at key locations in the system, real-time traffic
volume and vehicle speed data can be relayed to the master controller.
Using this data, the system can select a predetermined timing plan that
will best suit prevailing conditions.
How it works: All closed loop systems are equipped with loop detectors at key points throughout the system which transmit data (number of cars) to a computer which is typically located in the borough hall. Timing programs are created by engineers using synchronizing software to maximize traffic flow. Traffic signal timing programs can be preset in the computer or implemented manually by a borough official. In addition, this system is capable of performing functions such as incident detection, EMS response, transit operations, and traveler information systems.
The
Facts:
Overall Travel Benefits of Closed Loop Traffic Signal Systems as Reported
by the U.S. Department of Transportation
· Travel Time: Decreased 8% - 25%
· Vehicle Stops: Decreased by up to 41%
· Delay: Decreased by 17% - 44%
· Fuel Consumption: Decreased fuel used by 6% - 13%
· Emissions: Decreased HC emissions by 4% - 10% and decreased CO
emissions by 5% - 15%
Additional Benefits of Closed Loop Traffic Signals Systems
· Real time traffic flow can be monitored from a remote computer
site.
· Automatic system failure detection ensures quick maintenance
response time.
· Signal timing plans can be programmed into local controllers
remotely form the central computer.
· Recorded vehicle count information can be reviewed to determine
the need for new timing plans.
The Photos:
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Although
loop detectors do not necessarily need to be placed at intersections,
the loop detector above is the typical means of detecting the presence
and passage of vehicles.
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Densely
developed corridors such as the one shown above are prime candidates
for closed loop technology. Safe and efficient movement of vehicles
and pedestrians provided by closed loop signal systems encourages
revitalization of business districts.
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