Active traffic management: adaptive traffic signal control
Active traffic management (ATM) uses advanced technologies (computing, communication, and electronics) and traffic management centers to improve roadway traffic flow. Adaptive traffic signal control is an ATM solution for reducing traffic congestion through intersection signal (traffic light) optimization using real-time data. The essential components of the control system are roadside traffic sensors, a central computer (control center), traffic-signal controllers at the intersections, and a fiber-optic or wireless communication system. In recent years, Los Angeles and New York City have made significant investments in upgrading their traffic signals to adaptive control. See also: Active traffic management; Data communications; Highway engineering; Optimal control theory; Optimization; Traffic-control systems; Ubiquitous transportation network sensors