Hi-tech tools seeking ways to make ‘smarter’ traffic signals: Roadshow
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Q: I find it annoying to wait and wait for a traffic signal to allow me to go when it is already perfectly safe to do so.
We are collectively wasting many gallons of gasoline and much time because of antiquated electronics within the traffic signal system. To me, the personal waste is trivial, but multiply that by the many cars affected, and we are referring to a significant amount of waste and pollution.
Perhaps your widely read column could interest a state official or agency to solicit suggestions for safe modifications to the current chaff control system that would enable traffic signals to become electronically “smarter.”
Ron Johnstone, Santa Clara
A: Bay Area cities are testing ways to improve traffic signals’ responsiveness to traffic.
In San Jose, the Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) team evaluates new technologies once available. “This is evidenced by our current pilots in vehicle detection using thermal and AI-based video cameras, safety analytics using Lidar-based cameras, and traffic signal performance. There are also pilots for data collection using crowd-sourced, web-based analytics tools, and transit signal priority using GPS tracking-based connected vehicle technology,” said Misael Millan, signal operations transportation specialist in San Jose’s Department of Transportation.
The technology you reference is in early R&D stages. When available for regular use, San Jose will evaluate it, too.
Q: When coming up to a metering light that’s on during non-carpool hours, is it OK to use the short carpool lane if you are a solo driver?
The majority of solo drivers use the single-occupant lane at those times, and I think the ones who use the short carpool lane are cheating.
What’s the law (if any)?
Al Ludlow, Morgan Hill
A: Carpool hours are in effect 24 hours a day on almost all on-ramps. If the ramp carpool lane is free for solo drivers to use at some times, carpool hours are posted.
Q: Steve Rempel’s letter regarding the “cyclists may use the full lane” signs added on Skyline reminded me that I was always puzzled by these signs.
It was my understanding that, since bicycles are shoehorned into the category of “vehicles,” they are permitted to use the full lane always and everywhere (excluding on roads like freeways). Granted, this is with the same restrictions that cars have, such as to generally stay to the right except when passing, not to unnecessarily impede the flow of traffic, and so on.
Was my understanding mistaken?
Gary Brainin, San Jose
A: Yes, your understanding was incorrect. As for these specific signs, they’re posted to alert drivers to the fact that bicyclists may need to move over to use the regular lane.
Look for Gary Richards at Facebook.com/mr.roadshow or contact him at mrroadshow@bayareanewsgroup.com.
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