How new AI traffic lights could give priority to cyclists over cars

It’s hoped the new AI controlled traffic lights will make cycling through busy areas smoother and safer (Picture: Bloomberg via Getty Images)

New AI controlled traffic lights that give cyclists priority over cars are being trialled in the UK.

The technology detects bikes up to 30m away from a junction, turning the traffic light green for the cyclist to cross the road and red for oncoming traffic.

This means cyclists have a ‘smoother, uninterrupted’ and therefore safer, journey on their bikes’, says VivaCity, which developed the traffic management system.

The traffic lights have been installed on A34 Stratford Road, near Blyth Valley, Birmingham as a trial, with the AI system only switched on during busy periods.

It’s hoped the project, overseen by Transport for West Midlands and Solihull Council, will cut the chance of collisions and waiting times at crossings. reports MailOnline.

If successful, the system could be introduced in across the West Midlands as part of efforts to reduce vehicle dependency.

Mark Nicholson, the chief executive of VivaCity, told The Times that AI can identify what it sees ‘without any personal information’.

The council can then build an algorithm for that junction to ensure cyclists or pedestrians are prioritised at certain times, for example at 3pm when children are walking home from school.

Transport Secretary Louise Haigh said the Labour government intends to invest ‘unprecedented levels of funding’ in cycling and walking to reduce the burden on the NHS.

Meanwhile, Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands and WMCA chair, said: ‘Road safety is a top priority for me, and I want everyone to feel secure when cycling or walking.

The AI traffic light technology, developed by VivaCity (Picture: Viva City)

‘This project gives us a chance to see how Artificial Intelligence can make our roads safer by detecting cyclists and pedestrians and manage traffic signals to give them more time to cross safely.

‘This is just one part of my plan to make our streets safer and encourage more people to cycle, meaning improved fitness, fewer traffic jams and cleaner air.’

Solihull Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Infrastructure, Cllr Ken Hawkins, said: ‘We want to do all that we can to encourage people to travel safely and sustainably across the borough. 

‘The new sensors will help make the Monkspath to Blythe Valley active travel route a more attractive option for cyclists so they can travel quickly but safely on this key route.’

The system has also been introduced in Dublin.

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