RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR)–The City’s Department of Public Works will move forward with a $21 million dollar project to improve the traffic signal system.
Starting Monday, July 9, the city—with assistance of federal grant money–will begin work to upgrade the first 100 traffic signals in the city. Once complete, a computer will be able to control and connect all the traffic signals; saving drivers on time and gas lost to gridlock.
Additionally, with all signals linked to a proposed Traffic Operations Center, the city will be alerted and able to respond quickly if those lights go out.
Here is the city’s press release:
The City’s Department of Public Works Transportation Engineering Division will begin work July 9 on upgrades to the first 100 traffic signals that will be linked to the City’s proposed Traffic Operations Center (TOC). This $21 million federally funded project will upgrade the City’s outdated traffic signal system and will install a new state-of-the-art system to the TOC, which is scheduled to open in City Hall next year. The upgrade of the signal system will involve installation of fiber optic and copper communication cables that will connect approximately 300 intersections to the (TOC). This is the start of the first of three phases that comprise the project.
WHO: City of Richmond Department of Public Works
WHAT: Richmond Signal System upgrade
WHEN: Tuesday, July 10 through Friday, November 2, 2012, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
WHERE: This project will take place at the following intersections:
- Broad Street between Belvidere Street and Staples Mill Road
- Monument Avenue between I-195 and Staples Mill Road
- Hermitage Road between Broad Street and Sherwood Road
- Multiple intersections in the Fan Area
BACKGROUND: The following improvements will be made to improve motorist and pedestrian safety. Motorists using the signalized intersections in the project area may experience temporary lane closures or lane re-configurations as the project progresses. Traffic control signage will be in place at these areas to guide pedestrian and vehicle movements.
SCOPE OF WORK: There will be new traffic signal controllers, surveillance cameras (CCTV) and an advanced Traffic Signal Management Software at the TOC. With increased monitoring capabilities, City staff will be able to respond more quickly to signal problems.
