Traffic Signal/Street Lights

Traffic signals make sure intersecting traffic moves in an orderly fashion and assigns the right of way in situations that cannot be effectively controlled by stop signs or other devices. They offer the maximum level of control at intersections. They assign right of way to traffic movements by permitting conflicting streams of traffic to share the same intersection using time separation. They allow minor traffic and pedestrian movements to clear the intersection and they provide all road users with concise instructions on what to do and when to do it.

Abington's traffic signal system is designed to keep you moving as safely and efficiently as possible. In fact, used appropriately traffic signals actually reduce delays. It's a matter of timing and speed. The system is programmed to work best when traffic is moving at or near the speed limit.

Managing signal systems takes more then simply switching lights from green to yellow to red. The system must balance the needs of all who use and depend on traffic signals that being pedestrians, bicyclists, drivers and transit riders.

Abington has a modern traffic system that is designed to be as efficient as possible while providing for safe travel for all types of transportation.

Controllers
Each signal is operated by a computerized controller located at the signal itself. Some of the controllers are linked by phone to Abington's central traffic computer which monitors signal operations, identifies problems that need correcting and allows programming changes to be made remotely.

Each controller is programmed with different timing settings. Some have one timing plan, while others have multiple plans to change the operation by time of day as traffic volumes and patterns vary.

Some controllers operate with fixed timing settings. Most controllers, however use detection devices to vary the timing based on actual traffic.

The signal controllers are programmed or timed with two goals in mind: 1) To make sure the traffic system is safe for all users; and 2) to minimize delays. Sometimes these goals conflict making the signal timing and the system less efficient in the interest of safety.

Signal Progression
The majority of Abington's traffic signals are coordinated to help traffic flow through a series of signals and avoid stops. This is called signal progression.

Tips:

• Drive the speed limit: Signals are timed to work best when traffic goes the speed limit. Driving faster will simply get you to the next signal too early, causing you to stop more often. The best way to avoid stopping is to slow down when you see a red light ahead and give it time to change to green.
    
• Stop behind stop bars at red lights: Many intersections have vehicle detectors (wire loops) embedded in the pavement. These signals can detect the presence of vehicles and let the controller know that vehicles are waiting. Stopping behind the bar ensures that the controller "senses" your car and keeps the crosswalks clear for pedestrians.

Pedestrian Push Buttons
Use pedestrian push buttons when you want to cross the street. Pushing the buttons on the signal poles will cause the "start crossing" signal (a person walking) to be displayed. The signal will not appear more quickly if you push the button more than once or hold it down. Your wait depends on when in the signal cycle you pushed the button. The pedestrian signals feature a short duration green walking figure, which indicates to pedestrians that it is safe to commence crossing the road. This is followed by a longer period of a flashing red figure during which pedestrians already on the road may complete their crossing. The signal timings take into account the average walking speed of seniors.

Turn arrows are equally important to a safe efficient traffic system: Turn arrows control opposing traffic movements and allow vehicles to turn safely at intersections by providing right of way.

Traffic signals close to railway crossings: When a train approaches a railway crossing, a signal is sent to the traffic signals controlling computer. The computer then activates the green traffic signal to allow vehicles to clear the railway tracks when the train is approaching. The signals then prevent movement through the railway crossing. When the train has passed the traffic signals they return to their normal sequence.