This synthesis will be of interest to traffic control systems managers and designers, maintenance managers and staff, communications managers and staff, and others who are responsible for the effective functioning of traffic signal control systems at the state, district, or local level. It will also be of interest to consultants and suppliers of traffic signal systems. It presents information on the current practices of state and local transportation agencies with regard to the maintenance management practices for traffic signal control systems. A previous NCHRP Synthesis, No. 114 (1984), examined the state of the practice with regard to traffic signal maintenance management. This synthesis reexamines current traffic signal control maintenance practices in light of the extensive use of solid state equipment, PCs, integrated systems and other advanced technologies, such as ITS ( intelligent transportation systems). This report of the Transportation Research Board discusses the current technologies and the maintenance concerns related to both hardware and software systems. It also presents information on traffic signal systems maintenance organizations and staff, maintenance programming and scheduling, ancillary equipment and repair facilities, cost of maintenance and funding sources, and management strategies.

This handbook, which was developed in recognition of the need for the compilation and dissemination of information on advanced traffic control systems, presents the basic principles for the planning, design, and implementation of such systems for urban streets and freeways. The presentation concept and organization of this handbook is developed from the viewpoint of systems engineering. Traffic control studies are described, and traffic control and surveillance concepts are reviewed. Hardware components are outlined, and computer concepts, and communication concepts are stated. Local and central controllers are described, as well as display, television and driver information systems. Available systems technology and candidate system definition, evaluation and implementation are also covered. The management of traffic control systems is discussed.