Maryland Agency Will Deploy Smart Traffic Signals
The system uses real-time traffic conditions and computer software that adjusts the timing of traffic signals, synchronizes the entire corridor, and effectively deploys artificial intelligence to keep traffic moving.
The Maryland State Highway Administration is investing $50.3 million to deploy cutting-edge Smart Traffic Signals that will improve traffic operation and ease congestion for approximately 700,000 drivers per day on 14 major corridors across the state, Gov. Larry Hogan announced. The system uses real-time traffic conditions and computer software that adjusts the timing of traffic signals, synchronizes the entire corridor, and effectively deploys artificial intelligence to keep traffic moving.
"Last month, our administration introduced a bold Traffic Relief Plan beginning with three massive, unprecedented projects to widen the Capital Beltway, I-270, and the Baltimore-Washington Parkway," Hogan said. "This next phase will employ the newest technology to further ease congestion in Maryland. By replacing 20-year-old existing controls with Smart Traffic Signals, we will have the ability to respond to changes in traffic flow, as well as traffic conditions immediately – benefiting nearly 700,000 Maryland citizens across the state."
The agency operates more than 2,500 signals as part of 250 signal systems. Traffic engineers will select intersections to upgrade to smart signals based on many factors, including traffic volume, intersection capacity, and traffic patterns.