A new project has been launched that will improve traffic flow and communications infrastructure on California’s State Route 1 (SR 1), also known as the Pacific Coast Highway, which is a major and frequently congested corridor on the USA’s west coast.
Iteris has been awarded a US$2.1m traffic signal synchronization and communication upgrade project by the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA). The project continues OCTA’s ongoing mobility enhancements, and includes upgrades to traffic signal infrastructure and signal timing improvements along a heavily traveled 9-mile (14.5km) long stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in Newport Beach. This major corridor is operated by the City of Newport Beach and the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), and is known locally as Mariner’s Mile. Work on the project is expected to commence immediately.
Iteris will design and implement a complete traffic signal system infrastructure, together with fiber-optic communications equipment, and will then synchronize all traffic lights along the PCH corridor. PCH is a major artery that is used by travelers and commuters, and also serves as the main access road to famous destinations such as Mariner’s Mile shops, the well-known beaches of Newport Beach, and shopping at Fashion Island, as well as Newport Harbor, one of the largest recreational boating marinas on the USA’s West Coast. The primary goal of the project is to improve traffic flow efficiency and safety for all users, including vehicles, buses, bicycles and pedestrians. At this stage of the project, Iteris has not specified the components that it will use, although it is likely to include its iPeMS traffic network performance management platform, and NetScene network management software.
“This project builds on the OCTA’s leadership of technology deployment through synchronizing traffic signals and system upgrades for efficient travel,” said Ramin Massoumi, senior vice president of transportation systems at Iteris. “Signal synchronization and system upgrades are at the core of efficient travel, as they provide a wide range of benefits, from improving safety and reducing delays, to improving air quality and reducing fuel consumption. This project also represents a significant step in preparing for expansion into the building of smart communities with new and expanded communications infrastructure, ensuring transportation information is easily collected and shared. OCTA proactively manages mobility conditions for a better travel experience, and we appreciate our continued relationship with them.”
