If anyone who travels along Wembley Road feels like they’re getting to work and back a little quicker lately, it might be more than a hunch.
Technicians have been experimenting with the traffic lights, and they say a few tweaks are saving commuters 90 seconds during morning and afternoon peaks.
Look for the “traffic light optimisation” trial to be extended to other roads as transport officials look to shave time from routes with high traffic volumes – especially those that don’t cost any money.
Member for Woodridge Cameron Dick said early results of the pilot were positive.
“Congestion costs us all, financially and in quality of life,” Mr Dick said.
“Simple, no-cost changes like better synchronising traffic signals will help Logan businesses and residents get home to their families sooner at the end of a working day.
“Adjusting traffic light activity in response to the volume of traffic at a particular time of day is a smart thing to do.
“By clearly defining how roads like this are being used, including freight movements and pedestrian activity, we can make the best decisions when it comes to transport efficiency.”
Mr Dick said the Webley Road pilot, seemingly chosen because of an increasing number of trucks from the fast-developing Berrinba estate, would contribute to saving communities millions of dollars every year.
Wembley Road is a vital corridor for Logan, with 15,000 to 20,000 vehicles travelling the route each day.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the impacts of Covid-19 and remote working arrangements have meant changes to some traffic lights are necessary.
“We’re also looking at things like adding an extra traffic light for turning vehicles and whether that can shave off travel time,” Mr Bailey said.
“Line markings and signs can also help smooth traffic flow and create more efficient roads.”
