New York State Department of Transportation Traffic Signal Timing and Arterial Optimization – NYSDOT Region 4, 5, and 6

A primary objective of this project was to create optimum traffic flow patterns, thereby reducing vehicle delay, vehicle stops, fuel consumption, and vehicle emissions. This was achieved with the development of innovative timing plans through the use of the Synchro traffic signal optimization program. Other computer programs, such as SIMTraffic (Synchro’s companion modeling program), proved to be beneficial and augmented the Synchro program, as needed, to optimize traffic signal timing.

Project deliverables included turning movement volume counts, ATR count data, time-space diagrams, traffic signal coordinated timing plans, project design and summary reports with MOE’s and Synchro data files for the project intersections. All information was in NYSDOT format and was provided in paper and electronic copy.

GPI met these objectives by way of our local knowledge of the State’s roadway network, past experience on similar projects, and extensive understanding of timing plan development. Below is a list of the project tasks performed.

Required work tasks associated with this contract included, but were not limited to:

TASK 1- DATA COLLECTION

1. Turning movement counts at signalized intersections selected by the Department during weekday peak, off peak and weekend time periods. A maximum of 200 turning movement counts were estimated during weekdays and 40 during weekends. Counts at other than those shown were also required as part of this contract.
2. Speed and Delay studies, Intersections and Arterial segments configuration/geometrics layout. All field data collection followed NYSDOT procedures.

TASK 2- TRAFFIC ANALYSIS

Analysis of existing conditions and optimization during peak periods, off peak periods, weekends and major events diversion plans using Traffic Signal Timing Software (SYNCHRO, Version 7). Some locations required analysis during weekends and diversion plans to be used as part of our incident management during major events. In addition, as part of improving cross jurisdictional signal timing and progression in the Region, the engineering consultant attended meetings, with in house staff, and coordinated work with local agencies staff.

TASK 3- SIGNAL SYSTEM REPORT SUBMITTAL

A copy of proposed signal timing changes files with supporting documentation was submitted for review and was revised as per NYSDOT requests. All signal timing modifications required NYSDOT approval prior to field implementation.

TASK 4- FIELD APPLICATION

This included: Implementation, field testing and validation of signal timing and arterial coordination of optimal alternatives. This involved isolated traffic signals as well as interconnected closed loop systems. The consultant executed all phases under this task under Department’s staff supervision.

TASK 5- ELECTRONIC RECORDS

Development of optimal arterial coordination and traffic signal timing electronic data files, using SYNCHRO format, for all roadway segments optimized under this assignment. This data followed NYSDOT Format and was compatible with Naztec and Trafficware software.

TASK 6- TRAFFIC SIGNAL OPERATION STUDIES

As directed by Department staff the consultant investigated, studied, analyzed and documented traffic sign