http://www.dallasnews.com/news/metro/20140705-antiquated-stoplights-put-dallas-in-a-jam-with-no-fix-in-sight.ece
In Dallas, most of the signals are old, and the software to back it up is no longer supported. The Street Services department just presented the City Council a proposal to fix/replace all signals and the system that runs it--asking for $250 million over 25 years. I knew there were at least a few signals in the city where the timing was off, but I didn't know it could be that bad. Of course, the city already has its money set on other things and pet projects.
Not sure how other cities are faring, but it seems a little surprising that a city the size of Dallas could be caught with its pants down this much over something that's necessary like traffic signals.
QuoteThe department recommended updating 60 traffic signals a year for the next 25 years. This would upgrade the entire system by 2040, at a cost of $250 million.
So what happens in 2041? Time to start all over again? Sounds like they need a yearly plan that covers each and every year...from here on out!
$10 million a year. 60 signals per year...if they're referring to entire intersections, equates to about $167,000 per intersection; not a terribly high price depending on what's needed per intersection.
Doesn't sound all that bad on the face of it - they probably just want money dedicated to this specific area (which would no doubt be reauthorized used for other projects down the road).
Their signal poles are ancient, most probably from the 60's. I thought it was strange seeing them put all new modern LED heads on these old, rusty, leaning poles. The head replacement was badly needed, though. Many signals were very dim.
Dallas has always let their signals and signs get into very poor condition before replacing them, with endangers people's safety. Many signs in Dallas are EG sheeting, and have absolutely no reflectivity left. It seems like they only replace signs about every 20 years, despite their 7-10 year lifespan. (EG).
There used to be signal poles at I-635 and I think midway or another cross street close to it that were leaning severely, and stayed that way for years.