The Town of Cary's Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS) is one of the most advanced in North Carolina. Traffic signal timing plans along Cary's main corridors are helping motorists realize shorter travel times to their destinations. Dynamic message signs have been set up at gateways into town to warn motorists of accidents or congested areas. Citizens can also tune into traffic images on Cary TV 11 before leaving home to choose the best routes, and will soon be able to go to the Town's Web site for real-time traffic information.

Features

• 80 miles of new fiber optic cable (integrated with existing signal software)
• 23 closed circuit TV cameras at key intersections
• Advance Traveler System with 12 dynamic message signs
• Fiber optic connections to fire stations, parks and other Town facilities
• Approximately 150 state-of-the-art traffic signal controller devices

wink TV
Closed circuit TV cameras send video feeds to Cary's signal system specialists and the Town's government access channel, Cary TV 11. This allows motorists to tune in to Cary TV 11 during weekday rush hour programming blocks (6-9 a.m. and 4-6 p.m.) to catch a glimpse of real-time traffic conditions before they drive, enhancing their trip planning abilities.

wink Web
An interactive Web site is being developed as part of ATMS that will provide motorists with real-time traffic conditions 24 hours a day, including camera images, travel alerts and route-specific traffic flow conditions. wink Web will be available in late 2007.

Dynamic Message Signs
Dynamic message signs are a unique part of Cary's comprehensive approach to traffic management in that they are the only element that will give drivers on the road the real-time information they need to make informed decisions about travel routes in that particular area. In addition to information on construction, incidents, hazards, and event detours, the signs will provide current travel times to specific locations within the corridor. And unlike simply relying on radio announcements that have built in delays or designated times for broadcasts, the dynamic messages signs provide affected travelers with immediate information. The dynamic messages signs should also decrease the number of necessary roadside temporary signs.

Cost
The total cost of Cary's Advanced Traffic Management System is about $12 million. The Town received $5,510,000 in federal funds for the project. The Town intends to use street bonds that Cary voters approved in April 2003 for the remainder of the cost.

The federal share will total $4.85 million from a Federal Highway Administration program aimed at reducing traffic congestion and improving air quality. The Town will receive the money in annual payments over three years, beginning in July 2003.

Links
Red light cameras (Town of Cary)
Green lights for emergency vehicles (Town of Cary)
Triangle traffic cameras (N.C. Department of Transportation)

Contact