New Signals to Ease Lexington Traffic Jams

Lexington officials are planning to ease traffic flow in town by installing special traffic lights at busy intersections.

The computerized network of more than 30 traffic lights will adapt to traffic flow using cameras. The town announced the $4.5 million project at a press conference Monday morning.

The new signals will be concentrated in downtown Lexington, where U.S. 378, Highway 6 and U.S. 1 - all major traffic corridors - intersect. Officials say between 16,000 and 18,000 cars travel just on U.S. 1 each day. 

The new signals also will be added on major roads on the outskirts of town.

The 18-month implementation process will have a minimal impact on traffic because crews will install a few at a time, officials say. They expect the new signals to reduce emission by up to 30 percent and shorten travel time for drivers by about 50 percent.

Lexington will be the first municipality in the state to try the new signals.