In a recent council meeting, officials provided an update on the Freight Priority Project, a collaborative initiative aimed at enhancing the efficiency of freight transportation in the North Central Texas region. The project, developed by Kimberly Horn in partnership with the North Central Texas Council of Governments, seeks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, fuel consumption, and travel times for trucks navigating through urban areas.

Kent Kaser from Kimberly Horn outlined the project's key components, which include the implementation of a freight priority system at over 550 traffic signals across the metroplex. This system will allow for extended green light durations for trucks, enabling them to pass through intersections with minimal stops. Additionally, the project features a Green Light Optimization Speed Advisory (GLOSA) system, which provides real-time information to drivers about traffic signal statuses, helping them adjust their speeds to maintain a smooth flow.

The initiative is funded through a U.S. Department of Transportation grant, ensuring that there are no costs incurred by local agencies or the trucking industry. The project is currently in its pilot phase in Garland, with plans to expand to other areas once initial data is collected and analyzed.

Kaser emphasized the potential benefits of the project, estimating that for every 5,000 truck stops, there could be savings of approximately $1,500 in fuel and operational costs, along with a reduction of over 1,300 kilograms of greenhouse gas emissions. A public-facing dashboard will track these metrics, providing transparency and accountability for the project's impact.

Council members raised questions regarding the integration of the system with existing traffic signals and its implications for non-freight drivers. Kaser reassured that the adjustments made for freight vehicles would be minimal, typically only a few seconds, and would not significantly disrupt the flow of traffic for other vehicles.

The council expressed optimism about the project's potential to streamline freight operations while also benefiting the broader community by reducing congestion and emissions in the region. The Freight Priority Project is set to operate for five years, with ongoing assessments to measure its effectiveness and adapt as necessary.