Work began Sept. 14 on a Citywide Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) Video Detection.
In August the Ceres City Council voted to approve a $1.9 million contract with a firm to modernize traffic detection and intersection monitoring capabilities.
The contract with AM Signal, LLC is the final major component of the city’s traffic signal modernization effort and will provide advanced traffic detection and real-time intersection monitoring throughout the network.
The proposed project consists of two integrated components: Installation of Miovision advanced video detection systems at all 39 signalized intersections in Ceres; and installation of high-definition CCTV cameras at 20 key intersections.
The improvements will modernize the city’s traffic signal infrastructure, provide enhanced video detection and traffic monitoring capabilities and support improved traffic operations and public safety.
Construction and equipment installation are anticipated to continue through October.
Drivers should watch for temporary lane closures and traffic control at intersections throughout the city while this work is underway. The city urges motorists to slow down, follow posted signs, and use caution when traveling through active work areas.
“This actually includes all of the video detection at every one of our signals,” said City Engineer Michael Beltran. “Currently right now, we have some intersections that have cameras, some intersections that have loops, which are in the ground. Some intersections don’t have either. They’re just on timed responses. So, the video detection included in this will be a wholesale upgrade of our entire traffic system throughout the city.”
He said the city has been working on synchronizing traffic signals by timing them to make sure that during peak traffic hours.
Also part of the work is installing surveillance cameras at 20 intersections not presently covered. He noted that as far as the Engineering Department is concerned, Avigilon cameras will be used to monitor traffic but that no recording will be done at City Hall. Instead, only police have the ability to record what cameras pick up.
Funding for the project is from Measure L funds, the countywide half-cent sales tax measure.
