City of Corner Brook Traffic Signal Systems
Location: Corner Brook, NL, Canada
Client: City of Corner Brook
Duration: 2017-2018
Key Staff: Michael McDonald, Florence Allaire
Project Description
The City of Corner Brook retained Harbourside Transportation Consultants (HTC) in November of 2017 to complete a comprehensive evaluation of the City’s traffic signal systems. Relying on our expertise as transportation engineers, the town’s goal for the study was to document existing conditions at each traffic signal system and to recommend upgrades as required. The City’s traffic signal systems consisted of 15 signalized intersections and five signalized pedestrian crossings.
Harbourside’s Role
Harbourside is well known for its detailed reporting and methodology. Over the course of the traffic study, our evaluation included the following components.
Traffic Counting Program. Harbourside collected traffic counts at five signalized intersections. This was to complete the City’s inventory of traffic counts for signalized intersections.
Intersection Traffic Signals Drawings. Harbourside prepared the intersection traffic signals drawings. These documented existing conditions at each of the signalized locations.
Signal Timing and Phasing Data. Harbourside reviewed existing signal timing and phasing data for each location. This was to ensure their conformance to relevant standards and guidelines.
Controller and Equipment Assessment. Harbourside assessed the traffic control systems and equipment. The assessment included traffic controllers and cabinets, vehicle detection systems, emergency vehicle pre-emption systems, pedestrian systems, traffic poles, signal displays and intersection signage. The results of our many assessments were used to determine the improvements required at each signalized location. This was to ensure the traffic signals reflected industry standards and conformed to the TAC MUTCD guidelines.
Communications Assessment. Harbourside conducted an assessment to identify how best to provide communications capabilities at each of the signalized locations in the city. This was to implement an Advance Traffic Management Systems (ATMS).
Intersection Capacity Analysis. Constructed Synchro models of the morning (AM) and evening (PM) peak hours for all 15 signalized intersections. The models were coded with the existing geometry, volumes and signal timing and phasing data. The models were used to assess existing conditions and to develop new signal timing plans to optimize operations at each intersection.
Operations and Maintenance Program. Prepared a traffic signal operations and maintenance manual. The program provided necessary guidance to ensure traffic signals are properly maintained to industry standards.
Roundabout Feasibility. Harbourside conducted a brief investigation for each intersection to determine the possibility of converting it into a roundabout. For each intersection that was deemed feasible, a conceptual layout was designed. Included in these layouts were brief descriptions of the benefits and challenges.
Unique Challenges
The scale of this traffic study required a holistic approach to reviewing the data. The eight key components needed to be taken together to arrive at a complete picture of Corner Brook’s needs. Any recommendations that came from this traffic study needed to be comprehensive and understand the interplay between each intersection.
Social Impact
A comprehensive understanding of a city’s traffic signal systems, and the potential improvements it may require, can have a drastic impact on traffic flow. The knowledge gained from this traffic study helped inform the City of Corner Brook on such issues. The next steps to improving transportation throughout the city are well underway. This contributes to modernizing roadways and improving accessibility.