The Impact of Smart Traffic Lights on Urban Congestion
Smart traffic lights reduce urban congestion by using sensors and AI to adapt signal timing to real-time traffic flow. Unlike fixed-timed lights, these systems prioritize buses, emergency vehicles, and high-volume routes, reducing wait times by 20–30%.
In cities like Pittsburgh and Barcelona, smart lights have cut commute times and lowered emissions by reducing idling. They communicate with connected cars, alerting drivers to upcoming light changes to encourage smooth driving. During peak hours, they extend green lights on major roads, while prioritizing pedestrians during off-peak times. By making traffic flow more efficiently, smart lights improve quality of life in cities, turning frustrating commutes into manageable ones.