Officials in Maryland are implementing AI-driven sensors at various busy intersections to enhance traffic flow.
The Maryland State Highway Administration has given the green light for smart sensors developed by NoTraffic, and 11 News had an exclusive opportunity on Thursday to explore how this innovative technology enhances traffic management by responding to demand and volume.
The SHA reports that NoTraffic AI sensors are now operational at five sites in Anne Arundel and Baltimore counties, addressing traffic congestion that has arisen unexpectedly due to the Key Bridge collapse. Here are the five locations:
- Mountain Road (Maryland Route 177) and Jumpers Hole Road (Maryland Route 648) in Anne Arundel County
- U.S. Route 40 at Batavia Farm Road in Baltimore County
- U.S. Route 40 at Chesaco Avenue in Baltimore County
- U.S. Route 40 at 66th Street in Baltimore County
- U.S. Route 40 at 68th Street in Baltimore County
“What we do is we take any existing infrastructure — an intersection where you have safety issues — we add our smart sensors at the intersection and upgrade them to make the traffic flow better based on demand,” Tom Cooper, vice president of the public sector at NoTraffic.
The NoTraffic system consists of four key components designed to optimize traffic light grids and enhance road capacity. The system employs cameras and radar to accurately assess a vehicle’s location and speed, regardless of weather conditions. The system employs cellular technology to manage the timing of traffic lights and interacts with other intersections equipped with the same technology. Around-the-clock oversight is provided by an operations center that never sleeps.
“It’s all about the data that comes into the system to start with. So, now we have this new generation of sensors,” Cooper told 11 News. “We kind of pioneered this where we can track every single object that comes into an intersection, be it a bus, truck, bicycle, car, motorcycle, even pedestrians going across a crosswalk. So, that’s part of it. Then, we use intelligent algorithms to make decisions based upon the policies of the agencies.”
Officials announced that the system has received statewide approval for implementation. The SHA has confirmed that the system has received approval, but it is not currently operational at the specified locations:
- Maryland Route 2 in Anne Arundel County
- Maryland Route 150 in Baltimore County
- Maryland Route 157 in Baltimore County
Several drivers in Maryland shared their annoyance regarding traffic issues and their desire for a resolution during conversations with 11 News.
“One of my frustrating moments is when I have this little slot of time to get there, and I’m sitting at a light, and it’s been like five minutes,” said Kimberly Dukes.
“The traffic will take you 45 minutes to an hour just to get through the tunnel from Dundalk to Baltimore sometimes. It’s insane,” said Nick Trokanski.
“Great idea. I mean, the quicker we can get through these lights getting onto where we need to be, the better all around,” said Zach Streckewald.
