Traffic Cameras Go Live In Central Austin To Help Drivers Traveling On I-35

“Knowing there is no one single strategy to reduce traffic by itself, we’re taking an ‘everything including the kitchen sink’ approach to improve mobility and communication on I-35.”

AUSTIN – Just in time for South by Southwest, the Texas Department of Transportation has brought 11 new traffic cameras online from 51^st Street to Woodward Street in order to offer real-time views of traffic or incidents in the area.

“With I-35 in central Texas being one of the most congested highways in Texas, we have to keep looking for ways to manage traffic throughout this corridor,” said Terry McCoy, Austin District Engineer.

“Knowing there is no one single strategy to reduce traffic by itself, we’re taking an ‘everything including the kitchen sink’ approach to improve mobility and communication on I-35.”

There are now 40 active traffic cameras in the capital region. Some of them work in conjunction with the “smart work zone” system, which features real-time travel information, as well as message signs to help drivers be aware of the impacts of highway construction.

The smart work zone features side scanning microwave radar that detects vehicle movement and sends data to a central processor. Then, the equipment translates the information received into speeds and travel times through the work zone through changeable message signs in order to advise drivers about detours, lane conditions, delays, or other important information.

“This tool provides drivers with real-time information on traffic conditions in and around the work zone,” McCoy said. “Drivers can now make informed travel decisions on whether they want to proceed through the work zone, exit onto the frontage road, or choose to take an alternate route around the work zone. This helps alleviate work zone-related congestion and improves safety for motorists and workers.”

These new traffic cameras are part of TxDOT’s Traffic Management System (TMS). The system uses technology solutions to reduce congestion and improve safety during and after construction. TMS provides drivers with reliable, real-time data to allow them to make better travel decisions considering routes, travel modes, and timing of trips, which increases reliability of the overall transportation network.