The City of Costa Mesa is a major regional commerce center in Orange County, CA. For example, it serves as a primary hub for business and borders John Wayne Airport. As a result, Costa Mesa experiences heavy vehicle and pedestrian traffic volumes every day. Consequently, the City requires ongoing investment in modern traffic signal infrastructure to improve safety outcomes and reduce road conflicts. To support these goals, the City initiated the signal modernization for Systemic Safety Improvements project. This initiative is part of the Federal Highway Safety Improvement Program-Local (HSIPL), which aims to boost roadway safety, operational performance, and multimodal accessibility across key corridors.
In 2026, the City launched this major effort to upgrade traffic signal equipment and implement safety countermeasures across 129 signalized intersections. Following a competitive process in July 2026, the City awarded Econolite Systems, Inc. (Econolite) the contract as prime contractor. Under this agreement, Econolite manages the installation of Battery Backup Systems (BBS) to ensure continued signal operation during power outages. In addition, these new units include Ethernet-based monitoring capabilities for real-time remote management. The project also deploys Opticom GPS Emergency Vehicle Preemption (EVP) technology to assist first responders.
Project Snapshot
| Agency | City of Costa Mesa, CA |
| Project Type | Systemic Signal Modernization and Multimodal Safety Enhancements |
| Scope | Citywide equipment upgrades, LPI implementations, and hardware modernizations across 129 intersections |
| Key Technologies | Battery Backup Systems (BBS), Opticom GPS Emergency Vehicle Preemption, Pedestrian Countdown Signals, Retroreflective Backplates |
Key Project Outcomes
- Upgraded 129 signalized intersections with modern, highly reliable control hardware
- Protected intersection power continuity by deploying advanced Battery Backup Systems with remote monitoring
- Improved emergency response times by installing Opticom GPS preemption technology
- Enhanced pedestrian crossing safety by adding nearly 200 countdown signals and LPI timing at 44 locations
- Boosted signal visibility for drivers by adding high-visibility heads with retroreflective backplates
Through these targeted upgrades, the City of Costa Mesa aims to reduce crashes, improve compliance with federal standards, and create safer intersections for all roadway users.
Project Overview
First, this project focuses on upgrading aging infrastructure and integrating advanced safety countermeasures. For instance, new high-visibility signal heads feature retroreflective backplates that make traffic signals much easier to see in low-light conditions. In addition, field crews are replacing older mounting hardware and updating signal configurations to support protected and permissive turns. Therefore, drivers benefit from clearer signals and reduced collision risks at busy intersections.
Furthermore, pedestrian safety serves as a core focus of this signal modernization effort. Specifically, the project includes installing nearly 200 pedestrian countdown signals. Moreover, Econolite is implementing Leading Pedestrian Intervals (LPI) at 44 key locations. Consequently, these timing adjustments give pedestrians a dedicated head start when crossing the street, which significantly reduces conflicts with turning vehicles.
This effort aligns with broader safety initiatives such as video detection and safety enhancement projects that improve multimodal operations.
Deployment and Installation
During the implementation phase, Econolite handles complete hardware installation and system integration. First, crews install the Battery Backup Systems and set up Ethernet monitoring connections within the traffic cabinets. Next, the team integrates the Opticom GPS preemption equipment with existing signal controllers. Finally, field technicians perform rigorous testing to verify that signal heads, countdown timers, and LPI features operate correctly under active traffic conditions.
Similar large-scale deployments, such as traffic signal system programs, demonstrate the importance of maintaining and upgrading intersection technology.
Technology Used in This Project
- Traffic Detection Systems
- Traffic Signal Controllers
- Traffic Cabinets & Signal Infrastructure
- Installation & Field Services
Operational Benefits
The overall signal modernization contract provides Costa Mesa with several major operational advantages. For example, the program delivers:
- Uninterrupted signal power during local outages through integrated Battery Backup Systems
- Faster emergency response times using GPS-based signal preemption technology
- Greater signal visibility during night driving and severe weather using retroreflective backplates
- Increased pedestrian protection through dedicated Leading Pedestrian Intervals and clear countdown timers
- Improved overall network performance across 129 major commercial and commuter intersections
Moreover, these ongoing upgrades support overall regional mobility and safety goals. Advanced systems such as traffic data analytics platforms can further enhance system performance and planning.
Ready to Improve Pedestrian Safety?
Econolite provides advanced pedestrian and traffic solutions to improve accessibility, safety, and mobility. Contact Econolite to learn how your agency can deploy accessible pedestrian signal systems.
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