Victoria Minister for Roads Jaala Pulford

New Traffic Light Trial Gets Green Light

Victor P Taffa

Andrews Government is starting a new trial to make tram rides quicker and more reliable for passengers.

New traffic light technology will soon be introduced to better balance the needs of trams, pedestrians, cyclists and motorists at busy intersections.

“We’re constantly looking for new ways to make our roads and public transport services safer and easier to use for all Victorians.” Minister for Roads Jaala Pulford said.

“Improving the flow of trams at intersections will make services more reliable and reduce congestion on our roads, helping everyone to get where they need to go sooner.”

Under the trial, trams will be given priority over other road users when trams are delayed or running behind schedule.

Signaling system trial will start in March and will use GPS technology to track the position of trams, taking into account current road conditions to determine traffic light sequencing.

“We’re working to reduce journey times for the 200 Million passengers that travel on our trams every year and help get the most out of our tram network.” Minister for Public Transport Melissa Horne said.

“Whether it’s upgrading tram stops, adding hundreds of new services, we’re getting on with delivering upgrades that will get people where they need to go safer and sooner.”

Cooperative Intelligent Transport System (C-ITS) technology will be fitted to 25 trams on Route 75, which runs along Toorak Road and the Burwood Highway.

Cooperative Intelligent Transport System will connect with VicRoads’ existing road management system, while also providing a link in to Yarra Trams’ operations centre.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Trial is funded through the Andrews Government’s Smarter Journeys program, which supports initiatives that reduce congestion across Victoria’s road network.

Australian Road Research Board (ARRB) will coordinate the trial and is working with Public Transport Victoria, Yarra Trams and La Trobe University.