"First AI traffic light" in Herzliya will ensure you don't stand at a red light for nothing
The Herzliya Municipality is implementing an AI-based adaptive traffic light system from the startup ITC. The technology uses computer vision to analyze real-time traffic, which has already reduced waiting times at traffic lights by 25%.
We all know that frustrating moment: late at night, the road is completely empty, no car is in sight, and yet you are standing at a red light that is in no hurry to change. The reason is simple: most traffic lights in Israel still operate according to pre-set programs and defined times, without any real connection to the actual traffic load on the ground.
The Herzliya Municipality and the Netivei Israel company are trying to change this situation using artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms, machine learning, and smart traffic lights.
An empty intersection? You get a green light
The system selected as part of the Herzliya Municipality's Move2Urban project is based on algorithms from the Israeli startup ITC. The big news here is that to implement the system, there is no need to close lanes, dig up roads, or bury expensive sensors under the asphalt. The solution is based solely on software that interfaces directly with the traffic controllers and camera infrastructure already existing in the field.
Using computer vision algorithms, the software detects traffic within a range of up to 700 meters from the intersection boundary with a declared accuracy of 99%. The system processes data in real-time on private cars, buses, cyclists, and pedestrians, and continuously calculates loads, travel speeds, and waiting times. Instead of relying on only three or four fixed programs, the adaptive system dynamically switches between 10 existing traffic light programs. In the next stage, machine learning models will identify recurring patterns and recommend new programs that will be added to the system's arsenal after approval by traffic engineers.
After a successful pilot
The pilot at the Kfar Shmaryahu intersection began at the end of May, went through a data collection and learning phase in June, and was fully operational in July. In light of the initial results, the project will now be expanded to three additional central intersections in Herzliya. A report by Netivei Israel on the deployment of the technology at more than 100 intersections across the country shows a 25% reduction in waiting time at traffic lights, a decrease of up to 30% in bus delays, and an overall improvement of over 20% in traffic flow.
Herzliya Mayor Yariv Fisher stated:
"The system demonstrates a way to harness artificial intelligence and real-time data to reduce congestion and make mobility more efficient and safer."
Eyal Fabian, the municipal official in charge of transportation, added that the combination of technology with existing infrastructure will allow for shorter travel times and directly improve the quality of life in the city.
