A new traffic forecasting tool can help transportation officials predict how road closures will affect traffic. This tool, called Closure Impacts, was launched by StreetLight Data.
Predicting Traffic Changes
The Closure Impacts tool helps officials understand the effects of both planned and unexpected road closures. It compares current traffic data with past traffic patterns. This helps it spot incidents like crashes, blocked lanes, or flooded roads. It can also help plan for scheduled events such as construction or large gatherings.
Kevin Hathaway, CEO of StreetLight, noted that the technology improves how agencies plan detours and respond to incidents. He said it uses real-time traffic data to save time and make traffic flow better, also improving safety in work zones.
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Closure Impacts uses a lot of data from transportation systems. This helps fill in gaps where there are no roadside sensors. It speeds up how quickly officials can respond to traffic problems. This information also allows them to warn drivers faster about delays, closures, and detours.
The tool is part of StreetLight’s Traffic Monitor product. It can look at slowdowns, check for speeding, and track travel times. This helps improve safety and manage incidents like accidents and traffic jams.
Planning for Big Events and Emergencies
Historical data can help cities get ready for major events. For example, the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be in 11 U.S. cities. Data from past events could show traffic patterns. This might help cities decide if they need to change signal timing near venues or add resources like signs or traffic controllers. During the event, the tool could spot traffic jams as people leave stadiums.
StreetLight's data can also help plan and monitor hurricane evacuations. During an evacuation, officials can see if people are following orders and route instructions. They can also check if incidents are blocking traffic on important routes.
The forecasting tool was created with help from transportation experts and engineering and construction companies.
