Reducing Emissions thru Congestion mitigation

TRAFFIC SIGNAL COORDINATION

Several tools used in the reduction of congestion and improving traffic flow are computer generated traffic signal coordination and improved intersection design standards. These efforts reduce stop-and-go traffic and vehicle idle times, saving fuel and shortening commuting times.

SCDOT Traffic Engineers monitor traffic signal systems to ensure optimum performance. Properly managed traffic signal systems can improve highway capacity up to 20%*. (*footnote: based on national studies and can deliver up to a 40:1 benefit to cost ratio) In the past year, our Traffic Engineers have retimed 23 signal systems. There are currently 208 signal systems in South Carolina. Several large “retiming” projects managed by SCDOT are currently in progress in Columbia, Rock Hill, Spartanburg and Charleston- major urban areas. There are currently plans to retime 20 signal systems in Richland, Lexington, Florence, Bluffton and the Myrtle Beach area. New signal systems are also planned in Georgetown and Spartanburg County in the near future.