What are the best practices for selecting and installing traffic signal hardware and software?

Working in the Traffic Signal Systems domain for over 10 years, I have seen the fast-paced change in the overall design, implementation, and maintenance patterns of the signals. The reliability and durability of the components such as aspects, controller hardware, and detection systems have improved substantially. Often, the tenders involving the Traffic Signal Systems are categorized into the lowest bid selection as part of the government tenders. This impacts the overall quality of the products due to low-cost sourcing. Industry producing the solution has evolved, it's time for Government/ implementing agencies to take note of the advancements and implement the latest available and reliable systems for Traffic Signal Systems.

Here's what I've seen. As traffic signals have moved forward in technology, a lot of the engineering, funding, and long range planning has not. Quite often agencies are caught in the "low bid" part of government work and have to work with equipment that's not compatible or networks that are not integrated with past networks. Much redundant equipment gets installed. Also, this equipment can sometimes overwelm the technicians who have to install and maintain it and program or maintain it. Technology is changing fast and the knowledge base at the agency level has to match that. Training at the engineering level, the technician level and the managerial level is imperative for a smooth running and economical system.

When selecting and installing traffic signal hardware and software, it's crucial to focus on durability, compatibility, visibility, and ease of maintenance, while ensuring compliance with standards set by the MUTCD, NEMA, and ITE. The hardware should be robust enough to withstand local environmental conditions and the software should support the specific requirements of the traffic management system, be user-friendly, scalable, and secure. Installation should be carried out by qualified professionals with thorough testing and validation of the system’s functionality in various scenarios.

When selecting software for traffic signal systems, it's essential to prioritize functionality, flexibility, scalability, security, and interoperability to ensure the software can efficiently manage signal timing, coordination, and operation. The software should offer the necessary features to adapt to varying traffic conditions and be capable of integrating with existing systems. Scalability is important to accommodate future expansions or technology upgrades. Security measures must be robust to protect the system from cyber threats. Interoperability ensures that the software can work seamlessly with different components and systems within the broader traffic management framework.

Before the installation of traffic signal hardware and software, it's crucial to perform a comprehensive site assessment and design review. This involves analyzing current and projected traffic conditions, as well as the geometric layout and environmental features of the site. Identifying potential conflicts, hazards, and understanding the needs and expectations of stakeholders are also essential steps. These insights guide the preparation of a detailed installation plan, which should clearly outline the project's scope, schedule, budget, allocated resources, and specific quality control measures.

When it comes to installation, often clients are only concerned about the implementation of hardware and software. For traffic signals to work efficiently, need to have proper geometry, and intersections, signages, and road markings are vital. Frequent changes in the locations, designs, and delays in approvals (due to the involvement of various agencies) impact the installation planning, configurations, and using the available solutions for better traffic management.

All concerned city agencies have to take active participation in ensuring timely review, approval, testing, and acceptance of the systems to make the best use of the advanced traffic signal systems’ capabilities.