Traffic Signals: Optimization, Outage Reporting - GDOT

Under the SigOps program, the Office of Traffic Operations works closely with state and local traffic engineers to optimize traffic signals across the state. Using the latest technology and signal timing methodology, the SigOps team monitors and optimizes traffic flow to provide a more efficient and safer commute for the public. SigOps focuses on two primary areas:

Under the SigOps program, the Office of Traffic Operations works closely with state and local traffic engineers to optimize traffic signals across the state. Using the latest technology and signal timing methodology, the SigOps team monitors and optimizes traffic flow to provide a more efficient and safer commute for the public. SigOps focuses on two primary areas: Signal Optimization Georgia DOT provides a multi-jurisdictional, cutting-edge signal optimization with the goal of improving traffic flow and reducing vehicle emissions through improved signal timing. Signal Operations Georgia DOT provides operational and maintenance support for traffic signals statewide. Report Traffic Signal Outage Call 5-1-1 to report a traffic signal outage in your area. View 511 By the Numbers 9,000+ total traffic signals statewide 100% of GDOT maintained traffic signals communicate with the GDOT network 6,000+ of 9,000+ traffic signals statewide are operated on GDOT's state route system 8,000+ of traffic signals communicate with GDOT's network Other Program Areas Performance Measures Automated Traffic Signal Performance Measures (ATSPM) The ATSPM software is open-source software that GDOT has adopted and modified for their use. ATSPM show real-time and historical functionality at signalized intersections. SigOps Metrics MARK was developed, based on open-source code, to track signal performance measures such as throughput, arrivals on the green, queue spillback rate, split failures, and travel time metrics. Regional Integrated Transportation Information System (RITIS) RITIS is an automated data fusion and dissemination system that provides an enhanced transportation network view for overall traffic system performance and trends as well as perform bottleneck and trend analyses for new signals. Technology and Innovation Connected Vehicles Coming Soon Qualified Products List (QPL 48) A listing of Traffic Signal & ITS Equipment prepared in accordance with the Office of Traffic Operations Standard Operating Policy 42 (SOP 42). Qualified Products List (QPL) Requirements A list of requirements for Georgia DOT’s current QPLs. Engineering Traffic Signal Design Guidelines Access traffic signal standard operating guidelines Ramp Meters The Ramp Meter Program was implemented to alleviate congestion and emphasize motorist safety. Ramp Meters are traffic signal devices located on entrance ramps to the freeway. They regulate the frequency of vehicles entering the flow of traffic on a freeway. The meters work similar to traffic signals with a red and green light. All vehicles must stop when the light is red. Vehicles are only permitted to move onto the freeway when the signal turns green. Benefits Reduced congestion on the freeway Decreased fuel consumption Maintain steadier flow on the interstate Increase freeway speeds Flashing Yellow Lights Georgia DOT is now installing four-section Flashing Yellow Arrow (FYA) signals across the state. This traffic signal includes a flashing yellow arrow that means drivers can turn left after yielding to oncoming traffic and pedestrians (oncoming traffic still has the green light). How it Works? The new signals are easier to understand because it uses an arrow to display the type of left turn movement allowed. Here’s what the various arrows mean: Solid Green Ok to turn left; oncoming traffic must stop Flashing Yellow Ok to turn left after yielding to oncoming traffic and pedestrians Solid Yellow Prepare to stop or clear intersection before solid red arrow appears Solid Red STOP - no turn allowed Criteria The following criteria is used to help select appropriate locations: Intersections where traffic congestion is a recurring problem. Most “eligible” intersections have standard “dog house” 5-section traffic signal - drivers make “permissive left.” Most “eligible” intersections have high traffic volumes and accident rates. NOTE: Flashing Yellow Arrows is the preferred left turn treatment for all new signal upgrades. If the traffic signal has a malfunction the left turn will flash red. As with all signalized intersections, a flashing red is treated as a stop condition and flashing yellow is treated as proceed with caution. If all indications at an intersection are flashing red or the intersection is dark it should be treated as a four-way stop. Benefits Flashing Yellow Arrows are just one of Georgia DOT’s operational improvements that are cost-effective, proven, innovative and safe. Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) encourages the use of Flashing Yellow Arrows. Based on FHWA guidance, Georgia DOT policy now identifies Flashing Yellow Arrows as the preferred intersection traffic signal. FHWA studies found that flashing yellow arrows: Help reduce left turn crashes by 35% Move more traffic through an intersection, easing traffic congestion Reduce vehicle idling and air pollution Reduced pollution NOTE: Drivers made fewer mistakes with the new Flashing Yellow Arrows than with traditional left-turn arrow signals. Flashing Yellow Arrows Georgia DOT is now installing four-section Flashing Yellow Arrow (FYA) signals across the state. This traffic signal includes a flashing yellow arrow that means drivers can turn left after yielding to oncoming traffic and pedestrians (oncoming traffic still has the green light).