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 Communications System Infrastructure-
Imagine managing a network with 1200 computer workstations and not
being able to monitor or communicate with any of them. To avoid this
situation, most cities connect their traffic signals to a
Transportation Management Center for coordination, monitoring, and
responsive signal timing- creating something much like a local area
network. However, San Francisco's 1200 traffic signals are not
connected to a central location. The existing cables, used to
interconnect signals for coordination, don't allow for two-way
communication or checking for malfunctions. Compounding matters, the
existing traffic signal infrastructure is old and can't be maintained,
which means new cabling can't be installed. Traffic signals do not
change according to the numerous fluctuations in daily traffic because
they are timed using historic traffic volumes. But, SFgo is changing this! Through the SFgo Program, DPT is replacing the existing infrastructure and installing a
new fiber optic communications network, installing new advanced traffic
signal controllers, and building a Transportation Management Center
(TMC). Operators at the TMC will be able to monitor the traffic signal
system and change signal timing in response to actual conditions.
 Transit Signal Priority-
Giving transit priority over cars at signalized locations recognizes
Muni's greater efficiency in the use of roadway space. Until now, our
traffic signal system could only provide limited transit signal
priority. However, with our new advanced traffic signal system,
improved priority for transit can be given in signal timing. A green
light can either be extended or given early in order to minimize delays
and restrictions caused by other traffic sharing the same roadway as
transit vehicles. Transit priority helps Muni improve on-time
performance and reliability, maintains access, and increases Muni's
modal share of the travel market. Transit signal priority can be
applied along transit preferential streets and contra-flow bus lanes to
help them run more efficiently.
 Bicycle and Pedestrian Improvements-
Being able to monitor roadway conditions and manage traffic signals
from the TMC means that DPT can better accommodate bicycle and
pedestrian needs. Traffic signal timing could take into account bicycle
speeds and comfort. Streets could operate more effectively to
accommodate new bicycles lanes. More time could be provided for
pedestrians to cross the street or for part-time pedestrian scramble
phases. Along arterials, signal timing can also be used to control
vehicle speeds and improve the safety of all roadway users.
 Real-Time Traveler Information- Information collected through Muni, SFgo traffic cameras, and vehicle detection will be processed at the
Transportation Management Center. This information would then be shared
with the public through this website, Variable Message Signs, TravInfo®,
and possibly kiosks. Residents, commuters, and visitors would learn
about unexpected travel conditions, street closures, and detours
throughout our City. They could then make informed decisions about the
transportation mode and route to get to your destination in the safest
and most efficient manner.
 Special Events and Incident Management- SFgo operators in the TMC will be monitoring local streets and freeways for
any changes in roadway conditions. The changes could be caused by
special events, disabled vehicles, crashes, maintenance or construction
activities, adverse weather conditions, or debris on the roadway. Once
an incident is detected, the operator would verify the cause and
implement an appropriate response using the communications system. This
could mean alerting emergency service personnel, DPT Enforcement, and
Muni, remotely changing the signal timing, and disseminating
information to the public.
 Emergency Management- SFgo is working with the Office of Emergency Services and the Emergency
Communications Department to develop emergency response plans that take
advantage of our new system. SFgo also applied jointly with the
San Francisco Fire Department for a Hazard Elimination Safety grant to
provide signal priority to emergency response vehicles, which will
allow for safe passage through signalized intersections and quicker
response to emergencies.
 Parking Guidance System-
Local congestion on our streets is often caused by motorists searching
for a parking space. Variable message signs can help direct vehicles to
the nearest City-owned parking garage and eliminate this congestion.
Three signs exist today near the St. Mary's Square, Portsmouth Square,
and Golden Gateway garages that display the number of spaces available
at each garage or notify motorists that it is full.
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