Q-Free has deployed an adaptive signal system designed to reduce congestion, increase efficiency and improve safety near Pittsburgh, in collaboration with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDoT).
The project uses Q-Free’s Maxtime signal control software, linking nine intersections along a busy corridor in West Mifflin, a borough within Allegheny County, south-east of Pittsburgh.
The solution synchronises traffic signals during peak travel times and allows those same signals to operate independently during off-hours, all without an advanced traffic management system (ATMS).
Chris Sobie, Q-Free traffic engineer and project manager, says the West Mifflin deployment validates the company’s commitment to scalability and allows agencies of all sizes to participate in the smart city revolution. “Maxtime adaptive is equally suited to major departments of transportation, or smaller communities wanting to provide the highest-quality solutions for their residents,” he said.
It can work locally at the intersection and is installed directly on the ATC controller, using the controller’s processing and memory to power adaptive signal control algorithms that automatically sense traffic volume, adjusting traffic signal timing to reduce congestion and idling.
The system delivers more efficient green signals and shorter wait times, Q-Free says, maximising existing infrastructure to keep traffic moving.
“Working with PennDoT and the Borough of West Mifflin, we were able to provide a system that reduces travel times and allows residents to spend their time doing much more meaningful things than sitting in traffic,” concludes Sobie.
