Countywide Roadway Congestion Relief

Regional signal synchronization will improve the flow of traffic by developing and implementing regional signal coordination programs that cross city boundaries. Beginning in 2011, the program will commence the synchronization of 2,000 signalized intersections, covering more than 800 miles of Orange County’s streets.

OCTA is currently developing a master plan with local cities, the county of Orange and Caltrans to define the components of the anticipated $450 million synchronization element of the Renewed Measure M countywide program.

Next Steps for Countywide Synchronization
Interviews were conducted with more than 36 agencies throughout Orange County, including all 34 cities, Caltrans and the county of Orange, to establish the proposed regional traffic light synchronization map for Orange County.

Project Status

• Existing traffic signal system inventory collected
• Traffic delay studies conducted for 15 corridors during a.m., p.m., midday and weekend time periods
• Vision workshop held at OCTA headquarters on Nov. 7, 2008 with the participation of more than 60 representatives from agencies throughout county
  
  

Current System Less Than Maximum Efficiency
Most traffic signal synchronization programs today are limited to segments of roads or individual cities and agencies:

• Caltrans controls signals at intersections of freeways with arterial streets
• Cities control nearby signals at local street intersections
  
  

Save Time, Money and Help the Environment

• Reduced travel times allow you to spend more time with family and friends
• Traffic delay will be decreased by more than 6 million hours annually when regional synchronization is complete
• Cars use less gas by reducing stop-and-go travel and unnecessary idling at red lights
• Vehicle emissions are reduced because cars run more efficiently
  
  

More Green Lights Than Red
Although it is not possible to hit a green light at every intersection, traffic light synchronization coordinates signals according to recorded congestion levels, allowing you to travel farther in less time by reducing stops.

• Expect more green lights, not every green light
• Drive with the flow of traffic to see the most significant travel time improvements
• Don’t speed up to get to the next intersection
  
  

Information

Kristin Johnson

Associate Community Relations Specialist

(714) 560-5386  |  kjohnson@octa.net