Traffic Signal Interconnect

The Traffic Engineering Division, Systems and Design Section, is responsible for the development, implementation and maintenance of the traffic signal system's component parts. This not only includes the central traffic control computer system and the local traffic signal controllers and coordinators but the actual communications network itself. Presently, over 1,000 intersections are controlled by our central computer system.

Currently, Broward County owns and maintains over 400 miles of traffic signal interconnect cable in underground conduit. The cable, extending from the control center located at 2300 West Commercial Boulevard to all parts of Broward County, is the link between the central control to all the traffic signals in the field. The cable is twisted pair copper, much like standard copper telephone lines, and ranges in size from 75 pair (trunk line) to 12 pair (local feeder).

Although copper has served us well in the past, the Division is now in the process of upgrading the overall traffic control system. One of the more exciting aspects of the project is the complete overhaul of the communications network from a copper based system to the newer, more efficient fiber optics system. This conversion, which is now underway, will continue over the next five to seven years.