Abstract Manager

This presentation examines the intricate traffic signal design process for the Science Centre Station bus terminal in Toronto, focusing on the challenges of accommodating multiple transportation modes, including pedestrians, cyclists, Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) buses, vehicles, and Light Rail Transit (LRT) station access. The design involves four traffic signals, implemented as two pairs of hardwired interconnected signals, with a critical requirement for simultaneous green, amber, and red indications in key directions for each pair.
Significant challenges arose from the need to manage traffic flow efficiently while ensuring safety and convenience for all users, particularly given the limited space on Gervais Drive (collector Rd), which can only accommodate one TTC bus at a time. This constraint, coupled with the TTC's desire for dual clearing opportunities per cycle, created a complex design problem. The presentation explores these challenges in detail, highlighting the impact of signal timing and phasing on congestion, safety, and the overall sustainability of the urban transit ecosystem.
Furthermore, the presentation discusses the use of simulation models and real-time data analytics to optimize signal operations, considering peak-hour traffic variations and the specific demands of each transportation mode. Despite the challenges, the implemented design demonstrates improved traffic flow, reduced delays, and enhanced safety for all road users. This project serves as a valuable case study for future traffic signal design projects in similar urban environments with complex multimodal demands and physical constraints.