August 03, 2016
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation announced this week that it has finally upgraded traffic signal management to a new web application, replacing a patchwork of paper records scattered at locations across the state.
Officials expressed relief at the completion of the new Traffic Signals Asset Management System (TSAMS), a pre-populated database that brings together information about 8,700 traffic signals on state routes.
“Our traffic operations team has worked incredibly long and hard with our district staff and local partners to assemble the best available traffic signal data for this database,” said PennDOT Secretary Leslie S. Richards. “This free tool puts this information in one easily accessible spot and will make a huge difference as we and our partners make ongoing improvements to signals and traffic flow.”
Under the previous system, transportation managers increasingly found it difficult to determine where and how to implement improvements. To address the problem, traffic operations staff worked with local partners to gather information on signal equipment, locations and connections to fill out the database.
TSAMS features a GIS mapping interface that allows all stakeholders to pinpoint traffic patterns and input additional data on assets including electronic signs, flashing warning devices, and school zone speed limit signs.
Municipalities, planning partners and contractors will have access to the web application using their existing Engineering and Construction Management System (ECMS) account, or by requesting a new ECMS account.
“We offer this web application at no cost to municipalities or planning partners,” Richards said. “This important new tool will help us identify traffic signal needs and better plan for future improvements. Properly maintained and operated signals make a huge difference in traffic flow and this is one way we can effectively address congestion short of adding expensive new capacity.”
