Salem To Implement 'Smart' Traffic Signals

SALEM, MA – Salem is planning to move forward with a new traffic signal system that will coordinate 14 intersections. The system is expected to help reduce congestion and improve traffic flow at those intersections, according to a statement from the city.

"The existing signals at these intersections are essentially stand-alone, triggered by timers or sensors, but without any coordination with other intersections," said Mayor Kim Driscoll in a statement. "By tying them together through this project, the signals will be able to communicate and regulate traffic flow in a more orderly manner. The end results, we hope, is less congestion and safer traffic flows for drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists."

Installation of the equipment at the Phase 1 intersections by Ocean State Signal is expected to be underway in August, with Phase 2 to follow at a later date.

Phase 1

• Lafayette Street at New Derby and Derby Streets
• Lafayette Street at Harbor Street
• Lafayette Street at Washington and Dow Streets
• Washington Street at Norman and New Derby Streets
• Washington Street at Canal and Mill Streets

• Bridge Street at Sgt. James Ayube Memorial Drive
• Bridge Street at St. Peter Street
• Bridge Street at Washington Street
• Bridge Street at MBTA driveway
• Bridge Street at North Street ramp
• North Street at Federal Street

Phase 2

• Essex Street at North and Summer Streets
• Essex Street at Hawthorne Boulevard and Washington Square West
• Derby Street at Hawthorne Boulevard and Congress Street

"This project is a reflection of Salem’s nationally-recognized complete streets policy, calls for all roadways to be safe and accessible for users of all modes and abilities," said Matt Smith, Salem’s Director of Traffic and Parking.

"We’re pleased that the study has found the proposed system to be feasible and helped outline additional technical considerations our contractor will need to follow during the installation of the equipment," said John Giardi, Salem’s City Electrician.

"Having our traffic signals communicate with each other to manage timing will really help with congestion problems on our busiest corridors," said Ward 5 City Councillor Josh Turiel, whose ward includes three of the targeted intersections. "Smart infrastructure benefits everyone, and I’m glad that the city is taking this step."

"These upgrades should address traffic movement issues on key roadways, making them safer and easier to get through," said City Councillor Bob McCarthy of Ward 1, which also has three intersections scheduled for the upgrades. "I’m greatly looking forward to the systems being installed and operational as soon as practical."

"This is a great opportunity to improve the flow of traffic, especially for folks coming in and out of North Salem and Bridge Street Neck," added Ward 6 City Councillor Beth Gerard, whose ward has five intersections that will see the new technology installed. "I'm looking forward to seeing positive changes."

Image via City of Salem