Key facts
- Albuquerque, New Mexico, is using a 'rest in red' traffic signal system with speed sensors to reduce crashes.
- Drivers adhering to speed limits receive earlier green lights, while speeders face more red lights.
- Portland, Oregon, has seen average speeds drop from 39 mph to 30 mph on a key boulevard using a similar system.
- The strategy is credited with significant reductions in crashes and injuries in Albuquerque.
- A North Carolina study reported a 43% decrease in crashes with a 'rest in red' system without speed sensors.
Cities are experimenting with innovative traffic management strategies to curb speeding and reduce accidents, with some finding success in rewarding compliant drivers. Albuquerque, New Mexico, has implemented a 'rest in red' system on Lead and Coal avenues, which defaults traffic signals to red until a vehicle approaches. Crucially, the system incorporates speed sensors that grant an earlier green light to drivers traveling at or below the posted speed limit. City officials credit this approach with a significant decrease in crashes and injuries along these busy corridors.
Portland, Oregon, has adopted a similar strategy, calling it a 'virtual speed bump,' on Southeast Powell Boulevard. This system has reportedly lowered average speeds from 39 mph to the 30 mph speed limit. Researchers from Oregon State University are studying the effectiveness of these systems, with initial findings suggesting potential but also highlighting the need for further research to ensure no negative consequences arise, such as an increase in drivers running red lights.
While the technology shows promise, some experts express skepticism about its ability to fundamentally change driver behavior without broader education campaigns. Jay Beeber of the National Motorists Association questions whether drivers will pay enough attention to adjust their speed based on the signal system, suggesting simpler solutions might be more effective. However, cities like Albuquerque also utilize speed cameras in conjunction with the 'rest in red' system to reinforce compliance.
Other municipalities, including Boulder and Long Beach, have undertaken smaller trials of similar concepts. A report from Arizona State University and Toole Design noted that only Los Angeles was experimenting with 'rest in red' in 2019, briefly testing feedback signs for speeding drivers. The concept appears most effective on roads that are less congested during off-peak hours. A separate study in North Carolina found a substantial reduction in crashes with a 'rest in red' system that did not include speed sensors, relying solely on the default-to-red mechanism.