Palm Bay’s Traffic Signals Are Getting Smarter—Here’s How It Affects Your Commute

City receives $160K grant to reduce congestion and improve travel times

PALM BAY, FL – The City of Palm Bay has been awarded a $160,090 grant through the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program. The funds will be used to implement a centralized Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) aimed at improving traffic flow and reducing emissions. This initiative focuses on synchronizing traffic signals at key intersections to enhance traffic efficiency and lower emissions.

Enhancing Traffic Flow and Energy Efficiency

The EECBG Program, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, supports local governments in reducing energy use, lowering fossil fuel emissions, and increasing energy efficiency. Palm Bay applied for its direct formula allocation of $160,090 in January 2024 to enhance its transportation infrastructure through traffic signal synchronization. By March 2024, the city was awarded funding through the Voucher Equipment Rebates Program, enabling the synchronization of seven intersections along Malabar Road and one intersection on San Filippo Drive.

The targeted intersections for this project were selected based on traffic density, congestion patterns, and their role in connecting key commercial and residential areas. These locations will benefit the most from improved synchronization and reduced travel delays.

• Malabar Road at San Filippo Drive

• Malabar Road at Holiday Park Boulevard

• Malabar Road at Walmart entrance

• Malabar Road at Valor Drive

• Malabar Road at Emerson Drive

• Malabar Road at Minton Road

• Malabar Road at Palm Bay West Plaza entrance

• San Filippo Drive at Community College Parkway

Implementation and Cutting-Edge Technology

The project involves the installation of modern traffic management technology, including the Econolite Centracs Mobility system and Miovision Scout devices, both of which have been received. The Centracs Mobility system enables real-time traffic monitoring and adaptive signal timing adjustments, while the Miovision Scout devices collect traffic flow data to optimize synchronization, reducing congestion and improving travel efficiency. The Miovision Scouts are actively gathering traffic count data to fine-tune signal timing, enhancing synchronization efficiency. Additionally, the City of Palm Bay is working closely with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to establish a cloud-based server connection. FDOT is actively procuring the necessary equipment, while city staff is acquiring SIM cards for wireless Airlink devices to ensure seamless data transmission. Antennas are also being installed on signal cabinets at each project site to enhance communication and functionality.

Community Impact and Sustainability

By reducing stop-and-go driving, congestion, and travel delays, this project is expected to lower carbon emissions and improve overall energy efficiency. Studies show that synchronized traffic signals can reduce fuel consumption by up to 15%, leading to significant savings for commuters and a measurable decrease in citywide emissions. Residents can expect a more seamless commute along the synchronized corridors, reducing unnecessary stops and cutting down on travel delays. This initiative underscores Palm Bay’s commitment to modernizing its transportation infrastructure while promoting environmental sustainability.

The implementation of the ITS centralized system is currently underway and is expected to be completed by late 2025. Key milestones include the installation of wireless Airlink devices and antennas by mid-2024, followed by system testing and optimization in early 2025. This project marks a significant milestone toward a more efficient and eco-friendly transportation network for the Palm Bay community.

Curated by AI and fact-checked by The Palm Bayer’s editorial team.