The contract for the supply and construction of the entire municipality’s traffic light network, which includes LED technology, remote management, and enhancements in safety, accessibility, and energy efficiency, has been put out to tender for €584,270 by the Department of Citizen Security. The traffic light network in Orihuela will be antiquated, inefficient, and evident signs of wear after more than 40 years of operation with virtually no changes.
Mónica Pastor, the Councillor for Citizen Security, clarified that the traffic signal system in Orihuela is “literally from the last century.” We possess equipment that is more than 40 years old, with obsolete mechanisms, discontinued parts, and lighting that provide minimal visibility. Pastor stated, “It is a matter of responsibility to decisively address this change and of citizen safety.” In order to guarantee uniform and coordinated action at all intersections and traffic signal control points throughout the municipality, the project includes a mixed supply and works contract with a 10-month execution period and no division into lots.
Smart management, increased visibility, and new traffic lighting
The contract’s incorporation of state-of-the-art LED technology is one of its most significant components, as it will considerably enhance visibility and decrease energy consumption. The current traffic lights, which are frequently inoperative and require costly maintenance, are equipped with incandescent bulbs. “The transition to LED technology not only enhances safety but also decreases public expenditures on energy and maintenance.” The councillor clarified that it is a return-generating investment.
Furthermore, the system will incorporate remote administration, a tool that will enable municipal technical services to monitor and modify traffic light operations from a centralised platform. This will enable the rapid identification of faults, the rapid response to any incidents, and the facilitation of cycle modifications in accordance with traffic requirements. “Previously, we were required to wait for an individual to report a malfunctioning traffic light before conducting an on-site inspection.” Pastor emphasised that real-time control will be achievable through remote management, which is unimaginable with current systems.
The project includes the traffic signals and all associated components, including controllers, electronic modules, wiring, manholes, control software and hardware, and support structures. It is a comprehensive project that will not only enhance the technical foundation of the system but also alter the appearance of the intersections.
The project encompasses the renovation of all technical components of the system, including controllers, electronic modules, subterranean wiring, manholes, control software and hardware, and support structures. The renovation of the wiring and manholes, which presently leak during periods of heavy rain, will be one of the most significant aspects. This leakage causes traffic lights to malfunction. The network will be able to remedy a recurring issue caused by this intervention.
Existing traffic lanes that are in excellent structural condition will be employed as an efficiency measure. These will be subjected to maintenance and repainting, which will lower expenses while maintaining a consistent and refreshed appearance at all traffic signal control points and intersections throughout the municipality.
Accessibility and safety on the road
Additionally, the renovation will prioritise accessibility by incorporating acoustic systems into the new devices to enhance signage for individuals with visual impairments. “We are going to make the traffic lights speak, literally, to ensure that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can cross safely,” the councillor stated, in accordance with accessibility regulations, as noted by the pastor.
Additionally, the new system’s design anticipates a more effective distribution of pedestrian crossing times and more efficient traffic regulation during peak hour, which will directly affect the safety and fluidity of urban transportation. The project also addresses a need that has been extensively expressed by residents. In recent years, there have been a plethora of complaints regarding out-of-order traffic lights, poor visibility at hazardous intersections, and even preventable accidents. This has resulted in a sense of insecurity among many residents, particularly elderly drivers and families with children, in specific areas. Pastor concluded.
Specific enhancements for Orihuela Costa
The project will encompass the implementation of autonomous LED warning signs at pedestrian crossings and speed limit signs on major roads as part of Orihuela Costa’s dedication to road safety. These energy-efficient, highly visible signs will enhance safety at critical locations, particularly in areas with high pedestrian and tourist traffic. This measure will reinforce the prevention of accidents, benefiting both pedestrians and vehicles.
Author: Derek Appleton
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