The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has been awarded a $1.3 million SMART grant by the United States Department of Transportation. This grant will fund a pilot project to test Freight Signal Priority (FSP) technology at two high truck traffic sites in central Pennsylvania, with the goal of reducing congestion and air pollution, and facilitating quicker market access for goods.
FSP technology utilizes real-time GPS data from truck electronic logging devices to assess a truck’s speed and location. As a truck nears a traffic signal, the system issues a priority request to the traffic controller, extending the green light duration by five to seven seconds. This adjustment allows trucks to continue through intersections without stopping, helping to maintain traffic flow and minimize the emissions from idling trucks.
PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll emphasized the importance of efficient goods movement to the state’s economy, noting that truck traffic contributes to congestion, delays, and pollution. He expressed optimism about the pilot’s potential to enhance truck and goods mobility while improving air quality.
The pilot will be implemented on Cameron Street in Harrisburg and Harrisburg Pike in Middlesex Township, Cumberland County, also known as the “Miracle Mile.” These locations were selected based on various factors, including traffic signal efficiency, truck traffic volume, air quality data, and existing signal hardware.
Rebecca Oyler, President & CEO of the Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association, highlighted the economic impacts of truck congestion, noting Pennsylvania’s high nationwide rank in congestion-related costs, which exceed $3.7 billion. Oyler expressed enthusiasm about the project’s potential to address congestion through technological advancements.
The FSP technology, previously deployed successfully in states like Texas, aims to improve overall traffic flow and air quality. Following the pilot, plans are in place to expand the technology to other high freight traffic areas across Pennsylvania.
For traffic updates, motorists can visit www.511PA.com or use the 511PA smartphone application, which offers real-time traffic conditions, weather forecasts, and access to traffic cameras.
