Knowledge Resources

This journal article examined how appropriate timing of traffic signals can decrease congestion, improve air quality, and reduce fuel consumption. Example retiming programs in Syracuse, New York and Oakland County, Michigan were highlighted.

FINDINGS

Across the nation, traffic signal retiming programs have resulted in travel time and delay reductions of 5 to 20 percent and fuel savings of 10 to 15 percent.

In Syracuse, New York, benefits were realized when signal timing was optimized for 145 intersections. Signal retiming decreased the number of stops by 15.7 percent, reduced travel time by 16.7 percent, lowered delay by 18.8 percent, caused a 13.8 percent decline in fuel consumption, and resulted in a 13 percent reduction in vehicle emissions and noise pollution.

Notes

See also: Syracuse Signal Interconnect Project: Before and After Analysis Final Report. Prepared by DMJM Harris for the New York State Department of Transportation. September 2003.