Video Detection & Opticom Installations

The video detection and Opticom installations project helped the City of Camarillo, California improve traffic detection and emergency vehicle priority across its signal network. In 2024, the city included this work as part of its Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) Master Plan to improve roadway safety and traffic flow. Because traffic volumes are often high near U.S. Route 101, the city needed more accurate detection and improved roadway performance. Therefore, the upgrades support both daily operations and emergency response needs.

Project Snapshot

Key Project Outcomes

• Improved vehicle detection coverage with high‑definition cameras
• Faster emergency responses through Opticom priority
• Reduced stops for first responders at signalized intersections
• Better data for traffic signal timing decisions
• Future support for transit priority and connected vehicles

Upgrading with video detection and Opticom systems gives Camarillo accurate traffic insights and faster emergency vehicle access through busy corridors.

Project Overview

In early 2024, the City of Camarillo awarded Econolite a contract to deploy additional high‑definition video detection (VDS) cameras at three strategic intersections. These cameras provide improved detection of vehicles, pedestrians, and bicycles. Furthermore, the VDS work supports the city’s long‑term ITS strategy to enhance its existing traffic system infrastructure.

Moreover, the city also awarded a citywide contract to install Opticom Emergency Preemption equipment at selected signalized intersections. This includes 57 city‑owned locations and 17 intersections owned by Caltrans. As a result, emergency vehicles can request priority at intersections, which helps reduce response time and improve safety across the network.

Deployment and Integration

Econolite installed Autoscope® Vision video detection cameras at key approaches to the Las Posas Road corridor intersections. Because these areas sustain heavy volumes of commuter traffic, reliable detection was critical. Subsequently, calibration ensured each detection camera provided accurate presence and movement data even during high flow periods.

In addition to video detection work, Opticom preemption devices were installed and connected into the traffic signal system. This allowed emergency vehicles to send priority requests to signal controllers, which then adjust signal timing to clear the path ahead. Moreover, this setup reduces delays for responders while maintaining safe signal operations for all road users.

Technology Used in This Project

• Advanced Video Detection Systems
• Traffic Signal Controllers
• Professional Services
• Intelligent Traffic Sensors
• Traffic Signal Cabinets

Operational Benefits

The video detection and Opticom installations help the city collect more accurate traffic data. For example, the cameras detect vehicles and pedestrians with high clarity even in varied conditions. In addition, Opticom priority gives emergency responders a smoother path through intersections. Therefore, response times are shorter and overall roadway safety improves. As a result, traffic engineers can make better decisions about signal timing and performance. Moreover, these improvements also support future ITS upgrades, including transit priority and connected vehicle integration.

Ready to Improve Detection and Emergency Priority?

Econolite offers advanced detection and signal priority solutions that enhance safety and operations for transportation agencies. Contact Econolite to learn how these solutions can support your network.

Related Case Studies

Explore more ITS deployments from Econolite:

• High‑Definition Video Detection Project
• Transportation Management Center Equipment Upgrade
• ITS Upgrade and ATMS Integration
• Traffic Signal Controller and Communications Deployment

Explore Related Solutions

Cabinets | Controllers | Advanced Detection | Professional Services | Sensors

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