Transportation Department Searches for Best Bike Detection Device

The Department of Transportation-Traffic Division is set to test a variety of bike detection devices as it searches for the most effective method of detecting bicycles at intersections in order to trigger the signal light to change.

Four identification technologies: video detection, video with radar detection, video with thermal detection or infrared cameras, and in-ground micro-radar, will be tested from August to September at seven intersections controlled by traffic signals in the city.

The video detection device will be placed between Orange Grove and Sierra Madre boulevards, Marengo Avenue (Orange Grove Boulevard) and Del Mar Boulevard (Altadena Drive).

The video with radar detection, meanwhile, will be tested on Walnut streets on Pasadena Avenue and St. John Avenue.

The video with thermal detection will be on Marengo Avenue (Villa Street), while the in-ground micro-radar will be on Union Street (Oakland Avenue).

The department will look for the most effective method of detecting bicycles and differentiating a bicycle detection technology from a vehicle detection device. Also to be considered is whether or not the technology is easy to install, operate and maintain, and provides flexibility for site-specific conditions at a competitive cost, said Transportation Director Frederick Dock in a memorandum.

Volunteers from Bicycle Advocacy groups will be present during the testing dates.

The chosen technology will be used for the “Detection of Bicycles at Signal Controlled Intersections Project,” which provides for bicycle detection systems at 38 signalized intersections controlled by traffic signals along four bikeway corridors: Washington Boulevard from Lincoln to Allen Avenue, Hill Avenue from California Boulevard to north city limit, Mountain Street from Lincoln Avenue to Altadena Drive, and Altadena Drive from Foothill Boulevard to north city limit. The device will also be used for other future traffic improvement projects.

For more information on the program, contact Joaquin Siques at (626) 744-6900.