Chattanooga, July 29, 2025
News Summary
Chattanooga is leading in traffic safety innovation with a groundbreaking technology unveiled by UTC researchers. This system enhances safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers by predicting crashes and optimizing emergency vehicle responses through AI and lidar technology. Funded significantly by federal and state sources, the project aims to reduce accidents and improve public safety, starting with the M.L. King Boulevard corridor and expanding citywide.
Chattanooga Unveils Advanced Traffic Safety Technology
Chattanooga has become a regional leader in traffic safety innovation, as researchers from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) unveiled a new technological system designed to enhance safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. This groundbreaking technology aims to alert drivers to potential crashes and autonomously adjust traffic signals to help emergency vehicles navigate city streets more efficiently.
The project has received substantial funding, including $2 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation and $500,000 from the state. During a recent demonstration event, a fire truck was shown communicating with traffic lights, successfully changing the signals in its favor. This adjustment has been reported to significantly reduce response times for emergency vehicles, ultimately saving lives and improving public safety.
Mina Sartipi, director of UTC’s Center for Urban Informatics and Progress, affirmed that this cutting-edge technology aims to enhance safety awareness beyond typical human perception. By leveraging a combination of artificial intelligence (AI), lidar, and wireless communication between vehicles and traffic infrastructure, the system works to prevent accidents before they occur.
Demonstration and Future Applications
The recent demonstration marked the first public showcase of these innovative tools. Although further funding is required for widespread implementation, the initial project concentrates on the M.L. King Boulevard corridor. Plans are already in place for the installation of 128 additional traffic units across Chattanooga. Future upgrades could see school buses prioritized at traffic signals to ensure timely arrivals for students.
The lidar sensors integrated within intersections are capable of identifying nearby pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles. This advanced technology uses AI to predict potential collisions, offering a proactive approach to traffic management.
Technological Integration and Community Engagement
Some new Audi vehicles are already equipped with the communication systems being demonstrated. Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly pointed out that widespread application of this technology could greatly improve street safety and help eliminate the need for sirens on emergency vehicles.
As part of an ongoing community effort, the newly formed Hamilton County Traffic Task Force aims to reduce traffic deaths and crashes, particularly as pedestrian traffic increases during warmer weather. The task force is engaging the public through initiatives like “Crosswalk Talks,” aimed at distributing vital safety tips to residents and collecting feedback for improving street safety.
In addition to local initiatives, UTC has secured a recent $500,000 grant to further its partnership with DENSO for traffic collision predictions and develop a smart crosswalk system with LG CNS. Previous funding includes an $1.1 million$2 million
While 11 U.S. cities have experimented with similar traffic safety technologies, Chattanooga’s extensive funding and commitment to future deployment set it apart. The innovative collaboration between UTC and industry partners signals a promising advancement in transportation safety.
Key Features of the Traffic Safety Technology
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| AI Integration | Uses artificial intelligence to predict potential traffic accidents. |
| Lidar Sensors | Detects nearby pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles at intersections. |
| Emergency Response Optimization | Changes traffic signals in favor of emergency vehicles to cut down response times. |
| Wireless Communication | Allows vehicles and traffic infrastructure to communicate in real-time. |
| Future Applications | Potential to prioritize school buses and other public transport at traffic signals. |
FAQ Section
What is the purpose of the newly developed traffic safety technology?
The technology aims to improve traffic safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers by predicting accidents and optimizing emergency vehicle response times.
How was the technology funded?
Funding for the project includes $2 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation and $500,000 from the state.
Where will the initial projects be implemented?
The initial focus will be on the M.L. King Boulevard corridor, with plans for additional units across the city.
How does the technology improve emergency vehicle response times?
The system connects traffic signals with emergency vehicles, allowing traffic lights to change in their favor, reducing delays in response time.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
UTC Partners with City of Chattanooga for Research Grants
Chattanooga Networking Event and Small Business Celebrations
Hamilton County Schools Enhance Safety Measures After Cave Rescue
Chattanooga Introduces First Smart Crosswalk System
Morristown Residents Brace for Rainy Weather and Local Updates
Chattanooga Secures $500,000 Grant for Traffic Safety Initiatives
Dr. Lori Mann Bruce Appointed as UTC Chancellor
Chattanooga Receives Grant for Traffic Safety Innovations
Chattanooga Receives $500,000 Grant for Traffic Safety Projects
Chattanooga Embraces AI to Enhance Infrastructure and City Services
Additional Resources
- Times Free Press: Chattanooga Tests Traffic Tech to Improve Safety
- Wikipedia: Traffic Safety
- Local 3 News: UTC Awarded $500,000 Grant for Traffic and Pedestrian Safety
- Google Search: Traffic Safety Technology
- Chattanooga Pulse: UTC Awarded $500K to Build Future of Traffic Safety
- Google Scholar: Traffic Safety Innovations
- News Channel 9: Crosswalk Talks Now Underway in Chattanooga
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Pedestrian Safety
- WDEF: Hamilton County Launches Traffic Task Force
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
