Innovative smart sensor technology is being tested on Solihull’s A34 Stratford Road in a bid to make busy crossings safer for cyclists and pedestrians
Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), part of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), and Solihull Council have installed the ground-breaking technology at a toucan crossing near Blythe Valley. Sensors, developed by VivaCity, detect cyclists 20-30 meters away from the crossing compared to standard technology and enable the traffic signals to go green quicker, giving cyclists a smoother, uninterrupted journey on their bikes
The sensors use intelligent video analytics and advanced algorithms to accurately and anonymously classify users and avoid false detections, which could otherwise disrupt traffic flow. This not only improves safety but also encourages more people to consider cycling as a convenient and stress-free option for their daily journeys
This pilot marks the first use of such sensors for this purpose in the region, and it is expected to serve as a model for future projects aimed at reducing vehicle dependency and improving the quality of life for all road users in the West Midlands