Traffic Signal Inventory

Tewksbury, Massachusetts

BETA performed a comprehensive traffic signal inventory for the Town of Tewksbury. Using the Town’s GIS mapping, BETA developed an initial base plan for all signalized intersections included in the project. The GIS platform provided a cost-effective means of completing the inventory while establishing a long-term asset management tool for future traffic equipment maintenance and updates. As part of the project, BETA also developed conceptual improvement plans. Field investigations included a checklist to ensure all pertinent data were collected, supplemented by AutoCAD base mapping to document key intersection features, including lane configurations, roadway geometry, wheelchair ramps, pavement markings, regulatory signage, and traffic signal equipment. The information was used to evaluate compliance with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), and accessible pedestrian signals (APS) were assessed for ADA compliance.

The inventory documented the following elements:

  • Controller, cabinet, and ancillary equipment
  • Vehicular and pedestrian signal heads (size, type, location and number)
  • Signal posts, mast arms, and span wires
  • Pedestrian push buttons
  • Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS)
  • Countdown pedestrian signals
  • Regulatory signing (“No Turn on Red,” etc.)
  • Signal phasing and timing
  • Detectors
  • Pre-emption
  • Interconnection
  • Safety issues
  • Traffic operational deficiencies

BETA collaborated with key Town stakeholders to supplement the GIS-based inventory with operational, maintenance, and safety information, including:

  • Traffic signal maintenance staff would know the background of equipment failure and replacement/maintenance costs
  • Town key personnel to gain understanding of signal performance, in terms of vehicle flow, pedestrian accessibility (Countdown, APS equipment, and effectiveness), and safety
  • The town enforcement personnel to have knowledge relating to crash history and of recurrent violations that might be related to outdated or ineffective signal equipment