The City of Fontana is one of the fastest-growing communities in San Bernardino County and serves as a major transportation and logistics hub for Southern California. Therefore, as traffic volumes continue to increase throughout the city, maintaining safe and reliable traffic signal operations remains a critical component of local infrastructure. In order to support these safety goals, the City initiated the Signalized Intersection Improvements Project under the federal Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP). Specifically, this initiative focuses on modernizing traffic signal systems and improving operational efficiency across the roadway network.
As part of its Active Transportation Plan (ATP), the City advanced this comprehensive traffic signal modernization effort to upgrade 118 signalized intersections. Consequently, in June 2026, the City awarded the construction contract to Econolite Systems, Inc. (Econolite) as prime contractor. Under this agreement, Econolite deploys advanced traffic signal technologies, including 118 Cobalt traffic signal controllers, network fiber communications equipment, and integration services. As a result, these upgrades replace aging infrastructure, enhance network reliability, and connect seamlessly with the City’s existing Centracs Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS).
Project Snapshot
| Agency | City of Fontana, CA |
| Project Type | HSIP Signalized Intersection Improvements & ATMS Integration |
| Scope | Controller replacements, database conversions, fiber network upgrades, and central software integration across 118 intersections |
| Key Technologies | Econolite Cobalt Signal Controllers, Centracs ATMS Software, Managed Network Switches, Fiber Communications Infrastructure |
Key Project Outcomes
- Upgraded 118 signalized intersections with modern, high-performance signal controllers.
- Enhanced central system visibility by integrating local hardware into the City’s Centracs ATMS.
- Improved network communication speed and reliability using Ethernet managed switches and fiber infrastructure.
- Reduced long-term maintenance needs by establishing a consistent, citywide controller hardware platform.
- Created a strong, scalable foundation for future Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) programs.
By combining Cobalt controllers and Centracs ATMS into a connected mobility ecosystem, Fontana creates a safer, scalable, and data-driven traffic network.
Project Overview
The City of Fontana awarded Econolite Systems, Inc. the primary construction contract to deliver a full traffic management upgrade. As a result, Econolite provides all hardware, controller database conversions, field setup, and central software integration required to modernize the City’s traffic network.
Specifically, the project targets 118 key intersections across Fontana’s busiest freight and commuter corridors. By replacing legacy equipment with Econolite Cobalt controllers and updating fiber communications, the system delivers real-time intersection monitoring. Consequently, this allows traffic engineers to optimize signal timing, improve network visibility, and maintain high operational reliability.
Deployment and Installation
Econolite field teams manage the full project deployment from September through December 2026. First, field crews replace existing legacy units with new Cobalt traffic signal controllers and install Ethernet managed switches within signal cabinets.
Additionally, Econolite handles all database conversion services to ensure a seamless migration to the new hardware. Furthermore, the integration team connects all 118 field locations directly into the City’s central Centracs ATMS platform, verifying robust, encrypted data flow across the municipal fiber network.
Technology Used in This Project
- Econolite Cobalt Traffic Signal Controllers
- Centracs Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS) Software
- Managed Ethernet Switches & Fiber Communications Equipment
- Systems Integration, Database Conversion & Field Services
Operational Benefits
Overall, the signalized intersection improvements provide the City of Fontana with significant operational advantages:
- Unified network visibility for fast, remote traffic signal diagnostics and monitoring.
- Smoother traffic flow and reduced vehicle delays across key regional freight routes.
- Streamlined field maintenance through standardized controller hardware and central software.
- Full utilization of federal HSIP grant funding to modern municipal safety standards.
- A future-ready platform capable of supporting connected vehicle and advanced ITS initiatives.
Ready to Modernize Your Signalized Intersections?
Econolite offers complete traffic signal controllers, central software, and integration services to update municipal roadways. Contact Econolite today to see how our team can support your traffic goals.
Related Case Studies
Explore similar traffic control and central software modernization projects:
- V2X Enabled Interconnected Traffic Control System Innovations – Hawaii DOT
- City of Madison Adaptive Signal Control Deployment
- Innovate Mound Connected Vehicle Project – Macomb County
Explore Related Solutions
- Traffic Signal Controllers
- Centracs ATMS Software Platform
- Advanced Traffic Detection Systems
- Systems Integration & Professional Services
Econolite’s Traffic Control Solutions
Cabinets | Controllers | Software | Advanced Detection / V2X | Professional Services
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