Implementation of an Adaptive Traffic Signal Control System Reduced Annual User Costs by $977,000 in Peterborough, Ontario, Canada.
The Smart Traffic Signal Pilot Project Implemented Adaptive Traffic Signal Control Systems for a Performance Evaluation Study.
Statewide, Ontario, Canada
Smart Signal Pilot Project Update, Report IPSTR22-012
Summary Information
An Adaptive Traffic Signal Control System, also known as Smart Signal System, utilizes real-time traffic adaptive technologies to optimize traffic flow within the road network. The Smart Traffic Signal Pilot Project implemented Adaptive Traffic Signal Control on a section of Lansdowne Street, between Webber Avenue and Monaghan Road, which is a four-lane high-capacity arterial road with a center left-turn lane (5 lane cross-section). This intersection carries between 23,000 and 29,500 vehicles per day and has a posted speed limit of 50 km/h (30 mph). The Adaptive Traffic Signal Control had two objectives when managing traffic: at busy peak periods, the adaptive software focuses on maximizing throughput on traffic on Lansdowne Street and when traffic is lighter, the adaptive software focuses on providing smooth traffic flow and minimizing queuing on side streets.
METHODOLOGY
Performance evaluation started on 11/08/2021, in the form of “ON-OFF” testing. “ON-OFF” testing was conducted by alternating adaptive control with traditional Time-of-Day (TOD) control daily over a two-week period.
FINDINGS
- The travel time saving of the annualized test period results equates to an estimated $977,000 in reduced user costs over a typical year
- During peak hours, Adaptive Traffic Signal Control reduced travel time by approximately 28 seconds (11%) in the eastbound direction and 80 seconds (30%) in the westbound direction.
- On average, under Adaptive Traffic Signal Control, side street vehicle delay increased an average of 63% during peak periods, but this was an expected outcome.
- On average, the Adaptive Traffic Signal Control reduced stops on Lansdowne Street by 37% in the eastbound direction and 53% in the westbound direction.
- Overall improved level of service equates to an approximately 6% increase in corridor capacity.
