THE CAMERA EYES OF TEXAS : VIDEO DETECTION DEVICES GAIN ACCEPTANCE WHILE MANUALS BECOME AVAILABLE

Replacing loop detectors, which are used to regulate traffic lights at intersections, can be expensive and time-consuming, especially when shifting soil has damaged underground loop wires. In such cases, traffic lanes must be blocked while the wires are replaced. A more cost-efficient method of vehicle detection is video cameras. Video monitoring systems can be mounted next to traffic signals quickly and easily. In Texas, about 10 percent of multi-lane intersections maintained by the state are outfitted with video systems, but this figure is on the rise. As video detectors become more popular, it will be necessary to establish a set of guidelines for planning and maintaining the systems.