Citywide Transit Signal Priority & Emergency Vehicle Preemption – Richmond, VA

The citywide transit signal priority and emergency vehicle preemption project helps the City of Richmond, Virginia improve transit reliability, emergency response, and traffic flow throughout the city. The City worked with Econolite to deploy the Centracs Priority system, integrate with the Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) and the Department of Emergency Communications, Preparedness and Response (DECPR), and leverage AI-driven routing and timing. As a result, all roadway users experience safer, smoother movement, while supporting the City’s broader transportation goals.

Because transit and emergency travel patterns vary throughout the day, the City sought a solution that could adapt dynamically. Therefore, Richmond invested in a comprehensive TSP/EVP program designed to improve schedule adherence, reduce stops, and support safety for all modes of transportation.

Project Snapshot

Key Project Outcomes

• Improved transit schedule adherence and reliability
• Reduced emergency vehicle response times
• Enhanced roadway safety and operational efficiency
• Maintained coordinated signal operations across the city
• Dynamic route management with AI/ML forecasting

Centracs Priority helps Richmond optimize transit and emergency travel while supporting a safer, more efficient city network.

Project Overview

In 2025, the City of Richmond partnered with Econolite to expand its transportation modernization program by deploying the Centracs Priority system. The project focuses on integrating transit and emergency services, leveraging real-time vehicle location data, and using predictive AI algorithms to optimize signal priority and routing. Performance monitoring ensures continual improvements in reliability and safety.

Signal Coordination and Priority Implementation

Centracs Priority coordinates signals across critical corridors and intersections. Performance analysis identifies areas for improvement, timing strategies are developed to reduce unnecessary stops, and real-world testing ensures accurate responsiveness. The system dynamically adjusts priority based on route changes and estimated time of arrival (ETA), improving transit reliability and emergency response.

Data‑Driven Deployment Process

Deployment follows a structured process: collection of field data, development of timing and priority plans, iterative testing and refinement, and final deployment across city corridors. This ensures that each adjustment is optimized for real-world traffic and transit conditions, delivering measurable improvements.

Technology Used in This Project

• Centracs Priority Software
• Advanced Detection Systems
• Intelligent Traffic Sensors
• Traffic Signal Controllers
• Professional Services

Operational Benefits

The project has delivered several benefits for Richmond’s transportation network. Transit and emergency vehicles experience reduced delays, while coordinated signals improve traffic flow. AI-powered routing ensures optimized travel times, fuel savings, and more predictable service. Overall, the City now operates a safer, more reliable, and equitable transportation system.

Ready to Improve Your Traffic Operations?

Econolite offers ITS solutions that enhance reliability, reduce delays, and support data-driven planning. Contact Econolite to learn how these solutions can help your city.

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