From the whitepaper “Smarter Cities: 5 Ways to See Results in 2017” (Download now)
In our previous posts, we’ve discussed how properly ‘agile’ smarter transportation projects can provide results now while at the same time laying the foundation for long-term smart cities success, and how you can build a culture of Data-Driven Decision Making to Leverage up-to-the-minute data to manage your ever-changing traffic landscape, and reviewed some key initiatives in Smart Traffic Congestion.
Today we are walking through our third recommendation: Smart Safety Initiatives 
Technology has brought rapid advancements in the evolution of today’s smart cities, and new ways to manage complex traffic and safety challenges.
New technology-driven tools and devices are more versatile, affordable and compact, with many options available:
- Radar speed displays alert drivers to their own speed so they can slow down accordingly; some are equipped with strobe lights that flash when drivers exceed the speed limit by a preprogrammed amount. Connected displays can also alert law enforcement, and tell you how many drivers are speeding at what times of day to direct enforcement efforts precisely, optimizing resources.
- Variable message signs dynamically display important information on anything from traffic delays and construction to updates on parking availability and inclement weather. Some can alternate between multiple messages and can display images as well as text.
- Conditional sensor messaging incorporate sensor or network data into messages on variable message signs and displays. Built-in sensors collect and transmit traffic or parking data in real time for safety management, information-sharing, analysis, and resource optimization. Data values can be incorporated into any position in a preestablished message. For example, a work-zone sign that reads “Time to end of work zone is X” will include the current travel time as it changes during the day or night, to help drivers make travel route decisions. You can integrate flood sensors with dynamic messaging signs to warn and divert drivers automatically in the event of high water. Sensors can let drivers know there is a train approaching, and recommend alternative routes. Temperature sensors can alert to freezing conditions and dynamically slow the speed for incoming traffic with variable speed limit signs
