Shreveport Voters Approve $125 Million Street Upgrade to Enhance Traffic Safety and Efficiency

Shreveport Streets to Get a Major Makeover with $125 Million Upgrade

Voters in Shreveport, Louisiana, recently gave a thumbs up to a whopping $125 million investment aimed at revamping the city’s streets. This exciting move, approved through a 2024 bond issue, is set to bring numerous upgrades to the local infrastructure. Among the most significant changes, an improved traffic system is on the horizon, which means smoother rides for everyone.

Major Upgrades on the Way!

So, what can residents expect from this 2024 bond? Well, for starters, around 22 intersections will undergo a complete makeover, featuring shiny new flashing lights and cutting-edge camera detection systems. This means commuting around town will not only be more efficient but also much safer. In addition to the full upgrades, over 50 intersections will receive partial enhancements, ensuring that traffic flow gets a much-needed boost.

Did you know that the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) owns nearly 200 traffic signals in Shreveport? Meanwhile, the city takes care of over 100 signals itself. Thanks to an agreement, the state even pays the city a fee to help maintain these stop lights, which is quite handy!

Focus on High-Traffic Areas

While the DOTD has completed upgrades on busy routes like Youree Drive and Kings Highway, Shreveport Traffic Engineer Robert Tomasek has his eyes set on making improvements at other intersections that are seeing a surge in traffic. One such spot is the intersection at Flournoy Lucas Road and Wallace Lake Road, which is already in the design phase. Tomasek explained, “I didn’t want to put the signal up until we put left turn lanes there so the signal can function properly.”

Time to Ditch the Old Lights

Many of Shreveport’s traffic signals were actually installed way back in the 1960s. Yes, you read that right! While some corridors have newer signals, others are still running on tech from the last century. Tomasek described the older signals as operating similarly to egg timers, complete with a flywheel and pin system. In contrast, brand new electronic signals with camera detectors can cost a hefty $350,000 per intersection, which might lead to budget constraints, especially in the wake of COVID-19.

The pandemic has thrown a wrench in the new parts supply chain, making it a bit tricky to get the necessary upgrades done on time. “It is a COVID issue. For some reason, the traffic industry is having issues getting parts,” Tomasek stated.

Smart Signals for Modern Cars

Most of the new signals come equipped with cameras that help detect when it’s time to give drivers a green light. However, problems can arise with older ground detectors, which are less effective for today’s mixed-metal vehicles. As cars are increasingly made with aluminum and other materials, the detectors find it challenging to pick up signals from motorcycles and even bicycles!

To play it safe, Tomasek advises drivers to stop their vehicles behind the lines marked “Stop Here on Red” to ensure they trigger the system correctly. He explained, “You’ll see a car completely in front of the stop bar, and they wonder why the light never changes. It’s because you’re in front of where the camera picks up the vehicle.”

Be Smart on the Road!

Another little tip from Tomasek is that slowing down can actually benefit drivers. “The system is linked to the speed limit. If you’re going faster than the speed limit, you’re going to end up stopping more than you would want. If you go a little slower than the speed limit, you’re probably going to catch all of the green lights,” he noted.

Help Keep the Signals Running Smoothly!

If you notice any malfunctioning lights, don’t sit back and let it slide! Report them to the Traffic and Engineering Department since the signals aren’t wired into an overall network, which means each one requires personal attention for fixes, syncing, and calibration.

You can easily let your voice be heard by clicking here or calling 318-673-6181. It only takes a moment to help make your drive safer and easier!

All in all, this bond issue is a giant leap forward for Shreveport as it endeavors to make the streets safer, brighter, and more efficient for everyone.