What this means for drivers is a more efficient flow of traffic on these streets.
Readers may recall my letter from March 1 of this year. In it, I stated that the Prescott Public Works Department, Streets Division, has now employed some high technology solutions, and has managed signal light timing to optimize traffic flow, keeping traffic moving as efficiently as possible. The main effort in this regard has been on Willow Creek Road (WCR), one of the busier streets in Prescott. The nine-and-a-half mile stretch of Willow Creek Road from Gurley Street north to Lone Elk Trail in the Deep Well Ranch area has been the subject of the city’s traffic monitoring and flow efforts. We have employed a new traffic signal coordination system on Miller Valley Road and Grove Avenue. These systems are now working well. The next streets that are being considered to utilize this new technology are Iron Springs and Sheldon streets.
Signal coordination is the linking together of consecutive traffic signals along a road to minimize stops and delays. The signals communicate between one another to synchronize the signal timing to allow vehicles to arrive on green and continue along the corridor efficiently. Typically, this is done by direction: In the morning, inbound traffic is prioritized, and in the afternoon, outbound traffic is prioritized. The timing process is variable by time of day and day of the week.
What this means for drivers is a more efficient flow of traffic on these streets. In fact, for travelers driving the speed limit, in many cases, there is the possibility of hitting all green lights as you travel in certain conditions.
As we continue to gather data and see success, the city will seek to implement this system in other areas around Prescott. We also will look at other improvements to traffic flow around our city. As an example, based on data from the traffic study, the Prescott City Council recently increased speed limits on two major streets.
For more information about the traffic management system, call the traffic engineering department at 928-777-1130 or email traffic@prescott-az.gov. The main message is to slow down, drive at the speed limit and enjoy the benefits of Prescott’s traffic flow technology, while avoiding costly citations.
Because traffic safety is a priority, citations for unsafe driving have increased. Speed and red light warnings and violations have increased markedly over the past year. In fact, total citations are 35% higher year over year. These enforcement efforts will continue as we strive to keep our streets safe for everyone.
The city will continue to seek ways to help traffic flow more efficiently, while also enforcing traffic and speed laws. For drivers, the message is clear: It is in your best interest to obey posted speed limits. Slow down, enjoy the drive. You might just find you will arrive at your destination sooner and safer than before. QCBN
By Phil Goode
Phil Goode is the mayor of Prescott.
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