The city of Pasadena is taking steps to improve traffic around the Rose Bowl, especially during the holiday season when events like the Rose Parade make for not-so-jolly driving.

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority granted Pasadena $1.2 million to upgrade traffic signals along three major streets that feed into the Rose Bowl. The full budget for the project is $1.6 million.

Starting next year, intersections on Colorado, Lincoln and Orange Grove boulevards will be equipped with new sensors and light signal equipment that will help the city manage traffic flows more efficiently.

The sensors can even detect bikes approaching intersections and adjust light signals to accommodate them. The same video sensors will also allow for more efficient signal timing for cars during off-peak periods when lower car volumes necessitate shorter signals.

Officials predict the improvements will even ease some congestion on the 210 and 110 freeways. That’s where exits get backed up because the lights on surface streets aren’t well-synchronized.

The upgrades will take effect at the following locations, according to a city staff report:

• Colorado Boulevard from Hill Avenue to the easterly city limits (15 intersections)

• Lincoln Boulevard from Montana to Mountain Streets (7 intersections)

• Orange Grove Boulevard from Green to Columbia Streets (6 intersections)

Installation is expected to run through 2020.