Pilot project in Münster: Smart traffic lights for faster bus traffic

Pilot project in Münster: Smart traffic lights for faster bus traffic

In Münster, a pioneering pilot project is started that aims to make public transport more efficient and faster. Together with the RWTH Aachen, an intelligent system is installed on a central feeder to the city center, which uses artificial intelligence (AI) to optimize the traffic light control for line buses.

The project focuses on Weseler Straße, which acts as the main traffic artery into the city center. Special cameras are to be installed at two intersections that are able to observe the traffic flows and react to them. If a bus approaches at high speed of the traffic light, the green phase is automatically extended for a short time to enable the bus to drive through. At the same time, the system ensures that at traffic jams or long waiting times for pedestrians and cyclists, the green phase for the buses is not unnecessarily extended.

technological innovations improve the flow of traffic

This state -of -the -art technology not only accelerates bus traffic, but also the overall traffic in the city is better coordinated. The urban and regional bus lines that drive to the city center on this important road could be up to 20 percent faster. This ranges from the confluence of Geiststrasse to Moltkestrasse, a central route in local public transport by Münster.

First tests with a similar system were already carried out at the end of 2022 and provided positive results. At that time, thanks to temporary traffic lights and cameras, the buses were already much faster. The positive response from this test phase motivates the city and the RWTH Aachen to fully implement the project. The current test phase will be carried out from the end of August to the end of September 2024, and those responsible hope for further successful results that may lead to permanent implementation of the system.

• project start: at the end of August 2024
• project duration: by the end of September 2024
• Long -term goals: Improvement of bus traffic, saving the time and minimizing waiting times

The cooperation between Münster and Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische University shows how technological innovations can optimize the flow of traffic in urban areas. These developments could also be imitated in other cities to meet the increasing challenges in public transport.

Follow the further developments of this project and learn how AI can revolutionize public transport in cities.

Image source: Stadtwerke Münster