© S. Betz
Bocholt's first AI-supported traffic lights are located on Uhlandstraße, at the crossing to the Aasee lake.

11. October 2024Planning and building

Bocholt relies on AI-supported traffic light control

Aasee traffic lights on Uhlandstraße now automatically recognise cycle and pedestrian traffic // Less waiting time, more safety

The city of Bocholt has recently started using technology supported by "artificial intelligence" (AI) for traffic control. Two traffic lights on Uhlandstraße have been equipped with cameras that record and analyse the volume of traffic. They make it easier for cyclists and pedestrians to cross this main road between Aasee and the city centre - and increase safety.

Six cameras are used to illuminate the near field of the traffic lights. The AI-supported technology uses anonymous image recognition to analyse which road users are approaching the traffic lights and how fast they are travelling.

Green phase is adjusted

If cyclists and pedestrians are approaching, the traffic light recognises this and prepares the green phase. The system intelligently adapts the traffic light control to the actual traffic situation and, if necessary, extends the green phase for cyclists and pedestrians crossing the road. This avoids unnecessary waiting times so that cyclists can cross the junction without interruption and without having to press a button. In the best case scenario, cycle traffic even has a kind of "green wave". The reduced waiting times also increase safety because they reduce the risk of traffic offences (deliberately crossing "red").

Initial experience with the new technology has been positive, as Jan Diesfeld and Markus Hentschel from the city's Mobility and Environment Department report. There has been praise from the public about the reduced or even eliminated waiting times for cyclists and pedestrians. According to Diesfeld, it is conceivable that the AI-supported technology could also be used at other neuralgic traffic junctions in the city. The city first wants to gain experience with the new system, which is being technically implemented in collaboration with Yunex Traffic.

Strengthening Bocholt as a cycling city

"The bicycle as a means of transport is characteristic of Bocholt and part of the brand essence of our city. The city of Bocholt is now taking the next logical step with AI-supported traffic technology to consistently improve safety, efficiency and comfort on Bocholt's cycle paths in the sense of a "Smart City" and to expand its reputation as one of the leading cycling cities in Germany", says Bocholt's mayor Thomas Kerkhoff.