Four new smart cameras are now operating on some of Adelaide’s busiest routes, using AI technology that’s the first of its kind for South Australia.
This AI technology has been installed at key locations at Penfield, Paradise and two roads at Old Noarlunga.
The SA Department of Infrastructure and Transport (DIT) says the software is an intelligent solution to improving road safety and traffic flow during peak periods.
The cameras are linked to the DIT’s Traffic Management Centre (TMC), allowing staff to monitor vehicle movements and automatically adjust traffic signals to reduce congestion.
According to data collected by TMC, traffic congestion costs the state’s economy more than $33,000 for every 5000 motorists that are forced to wait 20 minutes in the morning peak.
DIT revealed that in Adelaide’s northern suburbs, traffic build-up and dangerous rear-end collisions have significantly reduced since the cameras were installed last year.
“Previously, drivers attempting to exit the Northern Expressway onto Heaslip Road were able to bank up to dangerous levels. In some cases, motorists were forced to queue onto the expressway where several rear-end collisions occurred,” DIT said.
“Following community concern at the site and a subsequent investigation by the Department, the area was flagged as a suitable location to trial the new software and hardware, which was designed and built by engineering company SAFEgroup Automation.
“Since the installation, the cameras have been able to successfully identify and respond to periods of high traffic flow. The system, which is connected to a temporary traffic signal at the Heaslip Road roundabout, is able to stop northbound traffic when activated and generate gaps for the off-ramp traffic to enter the roundabout without cars banking up. The signals continue to operate until the queue length on the exit ramp is reduced.”
There are now plans to install the system at two more locations along the Northern Expressway, in preparation for the nearby housing developments.
“Close to 3000 homes are earmarked for the Smithfield and Playford area. By having an advanced AI system already in place on the main expressway, the Department has taken a proactive approach in ensuring the surrounding infrastructure is ready for the increased traffic,” added DIT.