Traffic Signals

Learn how traffic technology keeps you moving

What is traffic signal coordination?

Traffic signal coordination is a method of timing groups of traffic signals along a major roadway to provide for a smooth flow of traffic with minimal stops. The goal of coordination is to get the greatest number of vehicles through a system— a group of coordinated traffic signals —with the fewest number of stops.

While it would be ideal if every vehicle entering the system could proceed through without stopping, this is not possible even in a well-spaced, well-designed system.

Are all Roseville streets coordinated?

Not all streets warrant traffic signal coordination. Typically, a street is selected for coordination if it carries a certain amount of traffic during peak hours. In most cases, coordination is active from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. during weekdays. Outside of these hours, individual signals operate on a
“first-come-first-served,” or traffic activated, basis.

View the current coordination map.

How are traffic signals timed?

Coordination along a roadway corridor takes into account the spacing of signals, the prevailing speed and traffic volume on the corridor, the amount of traffic coming in and out of driveways between traffic signals, the uniformity of intersection sizes, and the traffic signal cycle length.

Do certain streets receive priority over others?

Generally speaking, “majority rules” in traffic coordination, and the busiest traffic movements are given priority.

Depending on the route, the length of a traffic signal cycle (think “green-yellow-red”) on a major roadway could vary from 60 to 120 seconds. This means that if you were exiting a side street, and you just missed the light, it is possible to wait between 60 and 120 seconds before receiving another green light. For the most part, the and bigger the intersection the longer the required cycle length.

Because of Roseville's signal coordination, there has been a 25% reduction in travel times. This equates to a savings of approximately 5,000 vehicle hours of travel time per day.

Traffic Signal Maintenance

Let us know what you're seeing

Traffic signal light bulb burned out?
Pole has been knocked over?
Light is stuck on red, or does not turn green?

Call the traffic signal technicians by calling (916) 746-1300 or email trafficsignals@roseville.ca.us. Be sure to provide the cross street names, the direction of the problem, and a clear description of what's happening.

On evenings and weekends, call (916) 774-5537 and leave a message for non-emergency complaints.

In case of an emergency, call (916) 746-1760 and leave a message. A signal technician will respond.

Traffic signal technicians also maintain, repair and inspect traffic signals, and perform USA (Underground Service Alert) services for all traffic signal related underground locations.

Design & Construction Standards

Traffic Signal Approved Equipment List

Standards for Attachment of Small Wireless Facilities on Roseville Traffic Signals

Flashing Yellow Arrows

Have you ever had to wait at a red light to turn left when there were no cars coming and it was clear to go? This situation can be frustrating as well as cost you time and fuel.
Lights
The solution is a type of traffic signal with a flashing yellow left turn arrow. A signal with this feature was installed at the intersection of Industrial Avenue and Freedom Way in late October 2016. You will soon see them added in other communities around the Sacramento area.

A flashing yellow left-turn arrow means you are allowed to cautiously enter the intersection to make your turn after yielding to oncoming traffic.

The signal still provides the comfort of a protected left-turn green arrow during peak travel times, or when pedestrians are crossing.

Flashing yellow arrow intersections are proven to be more efficient—reducing traffic delays and emissions, saving you time and money. These signals have been successfully used for years in other cities in northern California, Reno and around the country.

Watch the brief animation below to see how a flashing yellow arrow signal works.

Have feedback or questions? We welcome your input. Contact us.