Throughout the 1980's a large number of municipal jurisdictions were updating their traffic signal control systems and installing central computerized traffic signal control systems utilizing state-of-the-art mini-computer systems to monitor and control signalized intersections on a second by second basis. At the time Year 2000 was considered to be a long time away and beyond the design life of the system. However, Year 2000 is now much closer and the associated "millennium bug" and its impact on computer systems is a reality which must be addressed. The intent of this paper is to identify the types of issues which jurisdictions face when considering an upgrade to an existing traffic signal system and then illustrate the types of solutions available through discussion of three case studies involving three very different municipalities in Canada. (A*)
Abstract