Richmond Launches Smart Traffic Signal Project to Boost Transit and Emergency Response

The City of Richmond has unveiled a centralized traffic management initiative designed to improve public transit efficiency and emergency response times. The project called the Centralized Transit Signal Priority (TSP) and Emergency Vehicle Preemption (EVP) Project, aims to modernize 490 signalized intersections by connecting them to a unified control system. Developed by Richmond’s Department of Public Works, the effort includes the deployment of Econolite’s Centracs Priority software, which links traffic signals to the Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) and the city’s 911 Call Center.

The system enables real-time signal adjustments to prioritize buses and clear paths for emergency vehicles, while also reducing delays for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. An initial rollout at 150 intersections is planned for this fall, with full implementation expected by spring 2027.