TRAFFIC SIGNAL PREEMPTION AND PRIORITY : TECHNOLOGIES, PAST DEPLOYMENTS, AND SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS

Abstract

This paper reviews traffic signal preemption and priority for emergency vehicles and transit buses respectively, with a focus on technology. Since the technologies traditionally associated with preemption and priority deal primarily with vehicle detection detection technologies are examined first, in terms of their functionality, strengths, and limitations. Past deployments of these technologies are then reviewed in terms of results and lessons learned. Given the many stakeholders affected by preemption and priority, requirements become an important consideration; the paper attempts to match the detection technologies with requirements developed as part of a regional study in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area