Synchronized signal reality check

We told you Times transportation writer Jean Guccione would get to the bottom of the claim by city officials that synchronizing lights in the South L.A. area (announced by the mayor today) would improve travel times by nearly a quarter. She did some research and here is her explanation:

Whenever Los Angeles city officials unveil more synchronized traffic lights, whether in the San Fernando Valley or in South L.A., they boast that those simple improvements will increase travel speeds by up to 32% and cut travel times by 24%.

How do they know?

Well, they have conducted their own studies by driving the same several blocks at least twice, measuring the difference with and without the computerized signal system in use. Those percentages represent an aggregate of those study findings. In reality, however, will a motorist encounter the same time-saving results on Ventura Boulevard during the morning rush-hour as on Vermont Avenue before a USC football game?

What do you think? Hit COMMENT and speak your mind!

Comments

[Dave Stodden]

Lately, I have noticed a form of traffic light synchronization on North-bound Main Street in LA, btw MLK Jr. BL and 18th St: The lights are timed to be red at every intersection. Perhaps the synchronization is designed to help East-West traffic at the expense of Main St? I have drafted the comments below and sent the to the LA Dept Of Transportation at:

http://www.lacity.org/LADOT/dotcu2.htm

though I am not sure this is the right agency to handle such complaints. I am also doubtful whether anyone still follows this thread, being that it was posted in March. Anyway, here are the comments for myself to read, if nobody else:)

"Traveling north on Main Street in Los Angeles from Martin Luther King Jr. Bl through 18th Street, there is some kind of perverse traffic signal synchronization in effect. The lights are red at every signal, even on the smaller intersections, such as at 23rd street. This has occurred all of the last four times I have driven this route (which is always about 5:30 PM). I am wondering whether this is a deliberate effort to discourage traffic from driving on Main, or whether the signals have just fallen into this unfortunate pattern due to neglect. North of the 10 Freeway, the situation improves. Are you the correct Agency for handling such questions and comments?"

Dave. S.

[R. Russell]

Would a computer turn a light red in front of a car, driving down one of these boulevards? I think this would also improve safety, eliminating red light runners. And eliminate the hated red light cameras.

[Michael]

I fail to see the humor in John Lammi's comment. I would love to hear about these "accademic studies" (his typo, not mine) that prove that foreign immigrants are the reason behind traffic congestion. LA times...why did you approve this post? It can't be real, nobody is that stupid. well...okay...maybe John Lammi is.

[John Lammi]

Most traffic congestion is caused by foreign immigration according to accademic studies.