The Department of Transportation installs and maintains traffic signals within the city in accordance with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). The MUTCD is approved by the federal highway administrator as the national standard for all traffic control devices. Traffic signals are installed based on an in-depth engineering study, as outlined in the MUTCD. The city’s director of transportation approves the installation of signals when traffic studies indicate a signal is warranted and beneficial. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) must also approve signal installation on state system streets.
Traffic Signal System
The city Department of Transportation maintains more than 380 traffic signals citywide. A computerized traffic control system coordinates the timing at all signals. The computerized system in conjunction with signal coordination plans helps reduce travel time, number of stops, air pollution emissions, and also reduces fuel consumption.
Identifying locations that warrant a traffic signal is an on-going initiative to insure the health, welfare, and safety of the motoring public. In addition, new development, changes in traffic patterns and citizen concerns may initiate a signal warrant study or update. To request a new traffic signal, submit a form through Durham OneCall, using the ‘Other’ category.
Service request:
Click or call 919-560-1200