There is a reason that many of the traffic light systems tend to work against drivers instead of for them. According to new research, much of the investments in traffic control systems were made in the 1960s and 1970s. Even though many of the systems have been upgraded over the years. researchers say that the amount of computing power needed to truly “control” traffic is not in place. There are simply too many variables that need to be inputted for most systems to keep up with the higher volumes of traffic.

Even if the city or the state does all the research and studying that it can, the amount of money needed to actually act on the improvements needed would drain any resources available. But it might be worth the effort to choose a couple of significant corridors and start there.

Our traffic signal system(s) continue to hold us back and things are not getting any better. One system in place in other parts of the country gives priority to transit buses. Instead of buses running up to a long string of red lights, the system holds the light on green for a few extra seconds to allow the buses to get through. Keeping the buses moving improves traffic flow for the cars that don’t get caught behind stopped buses, and also speeds up bus rides.

NOT ALL ‘ROOKIE DRIVERS’ ARE TEENS

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In response to last week’s mention of a program started by a mother and son that sells “rookie driver” magnetic signs in hopes that other drivers will give them a brake (pun intended), Yvonne writes: “Some years ago Del. Shane Pendergrass introduced legislation to make it mandatory for all ‘rookie’ drivers to have some kind of identification on the car. I was asked to testify regarding the ‘L’ plates they have in England that all beginning drivers and driving school cars are required to display. The legislature did not want to make it mandatory and the compromise was magnetic ‘Rookie Driver’ signs that could be obtained from [MVA] ... We seem to associate new drivers with teens but I wonder what the percentage of older ‘new’ drivers is? All new drivers should have a sign on the car — when I’m behind one that does, I am a lot more patient.”

Many of those who delay getting a license do so either because they have other options or because they are leery of getting out there and mixing it up with everyone else. Uncertainly when driving can lead to problems when there is the perception of being pressured to do something like high-speed merges before you are ready.

Questions, comments, random musings? Write to Steve@SprawlandCrawl.com.