HUDSON — A traffic signal timing analysis is occurring that is designed to improve efficiency and reduce congestion at intersections around the city.



Twinsburg-based TMS Engineers is analyzing 14 traffic signals downtown, and will review both timing optimizations and more traffic detection zones, according to city spokesperson Jody Roberts. She added TMS will make its recommendations in the late fall.



The recommendations would then be used for contractual work on the signals slated for 2020, said Roberts, who said about $75,000 is budgeted for this endeavor.



This is the first phase of the city’s traffic signal upgrade project. The second phase, according to Roberts, would involve SMART signal technology on downtown traffic signals. She said that could happen "as early as 2020, depending on the results of the signal optimization."



Assistant Manager Thom Sheridan said this adaptive signal technology plan will use fiber technology to adjust the timing of traffic lights in real-time to control the flow of traffic and reduce travel times.



With adaptive signal technology, traffic signals communicate with each other, Roberts said. The system recognizes a traffic back-up and responds by adjusting signal timing to move traffic through congested intersections. Roberts explained that adaptive signals:



? move traffic faster with fewer stops;



? increase safety by reducing stops (and the potential for rear-end collisions);



? adjust traffic in real-time to minimize traffic tie-ups due to accidents, lane-closures or downed trees; and



? reduce vehicle emissions by decreasing idling time.



Editor’s note: Reporter Laura Freeman contributed to this story.