Data Fusion and Dynamic Traffic Management in Thessaloniki
About this good practice
This case concerns:
• Real-time monitoring and data fusion using multiple sources (Cameras, Bluetooth, Magnetic sensors, Floating Car Data).
• Real-time activation of dynamic traffic management scenarios including multiple actions (Signal plan selection, VMS integration and C-ITS services).
• Real-time information and guidance to drivers through on-board smart devices.
• Calculation of key performance indicators for monitoring the performance of signalized intersections and specific urban corridors.
• Real-time and historic visualization of raw data and relevant key performance indicators.
The project was a collaboration between the Hellenic Institute of Transport, the Region of Central Macedonia (RCM) and three technology providers, Yunex, Swarco and SCAE. Beneficiary of this practice is RCM, as having this system allows for traffic management (and operations in emergency situations) in its territory. Drivers also benefit from the real-time information provided to them, while citizens, in general, benefit from the improvement in the traffic conditions and the subsequent reduction of CO2 emissions.
Expert opinion
Resources needed
Project budget: €1,861,862 (Public Investment Programme). The implementation team included transport and software engineers, and data analysts. Ongoing maintenance is needed as the city, infrastructure, and technology continue to evolve.
Evidence of success
The system is fully functional since 2022 in specific urban corridors in the city of Thessaloniki and allowed for the implementation of new signal plans for 125 intersections and the real-time monitoring of 10 Variable Message Signs (VMS). During the morning rush hour, we observed in these corridors:
- 8% decrease in delays in specific signalized intersections
- 7% improvement in travel times
- 5% decrease in CO2 emissions
Potential for learning or transfer
The system has multiple benefits for a regional/ local authority, as it allows for:
• automation of traffic management processes on a daily basis,
• the possibility of coordinated management by the operator in case of emergency (thus increasing the region's/ city's resilience),
• calculation of performance indicators for monitoring of signaling system performance and utilization in decision making.
Strong collaboration between stakeholders, combined with technical expertise, can achieve high-level automation that can drastically improve the overall situation in a city. The system’s architecture and technologies can easily be transferred to another city/region. In fact, the same system is also operational in the city of Ioannina.
Further information
Website
Good practice owner
You can contact the good practice owner below for more detailed information.
Centre for Research and Technology Hellas (CERTH)