Special to 1808Delaware
Progress is being made on a citywide traffic signal and technology upgrade project to modernize many of Delaware’s traffic lights and intersections for better efficiency and safety.
As the project moves forward, it also is being impacted by global supply chain shortages for such items as steel traffic signal cabinets and signal circuitry. Delaware is hoping to have everything completed by the end of 2022 or the beginning of 2023.
The City was awarded $2.5 million in federal dollars through the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission to upgrade the systems along Delaware’s primary travel corridors. Delaware’s local grant match contribution is approximately $585,500.
Here is a summary of some of the project’s key elements:
- Most of the equipment controlling the city traffic signals is more than 20 years old and is outdated. It is being replaced with new circuitry and technology, including fiber optics, for the coming autonomous and connected vehicle need, as well as signal pre-emption abilities for public safety.
- A central control system along the major corridors vs. multiple closed loop systems that are in place now. The system will feature coordinated signaling and have adaptive technology that can sense inefficiencies and self-adjust for a better level of service. The corridors include both William Street and Central Avenue, from US 23 to the western city limits; Sandusky Street from Belle Avenue to Central.; and London Road from Sandusky to Pittsburgh Drive.
- Installing uninterruptible power supplies to keep traffic signals working during power outages.
- Pedestrian safety and ADA compatibility are being improved by adding push-button crossing pedestals in intersections where foot traffic is busiest. Some of the signals have an ADA audio component. This work, including brick and concrete restoration, should be complete in the next two months.
- A total of 32 traffic signal heads and wiring are being replaced with LED technology.
