tech
With 'virtual speed bumps,' these cities have reduced crashes by rewarding slower drivers with fewer red lights
Officials struggled for years to curb high-speed crashes along a residential corridor cutting through Albuquerque, New Mexico, but simply punishing the lead-footed drivers didn’t seem to work.
TL;DR
- Albuquerque and Portland are using a "rest in red" traffic signal system with speed sensors.
- Drivers at or below the speed limit receive an earlier green light, while speeders face red lights.
- This approach has led to a notable reduction in crashes and injuries in Albuquerque.
- Portland saw average speeds drop from 39 mph to 30 mph at a tested intersection.
- The system acts as a 'virtual speed bump,' incentivizing compliance with speed limits.
- While effective, concerns remain about driver awareness and potential negative consequences.
- Other cities like Boulder, Colorado, and Long Beach, California, have explored similar targeted efforts.