Portable Traffic Signals

During a severe thunderstorm earlier this year, the city of Baltimore, Maryland, was faced with a dilemma: several city intersections had been disabled because of broken traffic signal span wire.

Unable to immediately repair the damage, the city turned to another solution. Within an hour of the first service call, the city had deployed a Horizon Signal Technologies portable traffic signal (PTS) in place of the disabled signal. The signal ran seamlessly with the existing permanent signals until the city could perform the necessary repairs.

This is just one of many features of the versatile Horizon portable traffic signal system. Road construction, bridge repair, emergency response, and traffic control for special events are all applications in which portable traffic signals are the best solution. PTS equipment is versatile enough to handle the most complicated traffic pattern and will provide reliable performance regardless of project duration.

These signals are much more than just the red, yellow, and green LEDs that motorists see. They are equipped with the most advanced traffic management technology available today. Wireless interface systems allow for the signals to work in conjunction with existing permanent intersections, complete with wireless full conflict monitoring.

GPS-enabled remote monitoring systems have technology that can pinpoint a signal’s exact location, as well monitor battery levels and system performance. Wireless communication allows the signals to transmit data within the signal setup without the need for heavy wires and communication cables. Wireless communication also provides a mechanism for appropriate personnel to be contacted in the event of an emergency. Solar panels allow the system to remain effectively self-sufficient during the entire construction season, thus keeping the environmental impact at virtually zero.

Most importantly, however, a PTS provides an increased level of safety for both the motorist and the worker. Their use, in lieu of human flaggers, saves lives and money. PTS systems can easily be set up and operational in less than an hour and address specific project requirements via add-on components.

Advanced warning systems can also be interfaced with dynamic message signs to warn motorists of an approaching temporary signal, which further increases safety.

As traffic volumes increase and the U.S... infrastructure strains to keep pace with demand, the importance of technologies and innovation, such as portable traffic signals, will be necessary. The most advanced proven technologies will ensure that tomorrow’s tools will be available today.

Mr. Heydt chairs the NEMA Portable Traffic Signal Technical Committee