Improved traffic monitoring systems are to be installed on some of Canberra’s main roads ahead of major works starting with the raising of London Circuit and the extension of light rail.
Announced by the Minister for Transport and City Services, Chris Steel, the upgrades are to include bluetooth sensors and cameras.
“To reduce traffic impacts associated with the delivery of light rail and other major public and private projects in the city centre, we’ve been investing in smart technology to better manage our traffic network during construction and beyond,” Mr Steel said.
“One of our key initiatives has been focused on improving the monitoring of the traffic network in real time, so we are in the process of installing around 40 additional Bluetooth sensors across our road network, as well as 30 new cameras to provide live updates to motorists and public transport users,” he said.
“We’ve also hired additional staff at our traffic management centre to ensure we’ve got live coverage during the morning and afternoon peaks.”
Mr Steel said this meant motorists could expect more management of traffic lights and live updates to variable message signage as the construction program ramped up.
He said the data collected from the traffic network would be used to inform directions to motorists, before and during travel, on the best ways to move around the city throughout the construction period.
“Better surveillance of our roads throughout the day will also mean we can respond more quickly to events like accidents holding up traffic,” the Minister said.
“While disruption from such major infrastructure is unavoidable, we’ll be asking Canberrans to adjust their routines and think about other ways to get around like travelling outside of peak periods, walking, cycling or taking public transport.”
