TxA&M

The Texas A&M Transportation Institute (TTI), Texas A&M University and the City of College Station are collaborating with seven companies to help design, develop and test smarter intersections.

Among the private companies that have indicated preliminary interest in the Smart Intersections Initiative include Econolite Group, EDI, Iteris, McCain, MoboTrex, Savari and Siemens.

The benefits that smart interchanges offer go beyond better signal timing. Due to the ability to detect traffic flow and volume, analyse complex traffic data in real time, calculate multiple route alternatives and send the resulting recommendations to vehicles approaching a congested intersection, the time of drivers will be saved in addition to congestion on roads.

The convergence of various technologies such as intelligent vehicle systems, traffic monitoring technologies, and active roadway infrastructure will shift mobility management from a reactive nature to a dynamic, real-time strategy.

"Smarter intersections will play a key role in improving mobility and enhancing safety for the public."

TTI director Dennis Christiansen said: "Smarter intersections will play a key role in improving mobility and enhancing safety for the public.

"Complex, multimodal environments where vehicles, buses, pedestrians and bicycles intersect are challenging in the best of circumstances. As traffic volumes increase, those challenges quickly multiply."

The project will be based at the Texas A&M University System’s new RELLIS campus.

The research will be conducted in three environments: a laboratory, a controlled environment featuring several intersections constructed at the RELLIS campus, and ultimately at live intersections in the City of College Station.

Image: The convergence of various technologies will shift mobility management from a reactive nature to a dynamic, real-time strategy. Photo: Courtesy of Texas A&M University System.