Case Study
Utah Department of Transportation Statewide Lidar Traffic Signal Detection System
The Challenge | The Solution | Results | Conclusion
Executive Summary
The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) is deploying one of the largest statewide lidar-based traffic detection programs in the United States as part of the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) Saving Lives with Connectivity: Accelerating V2X Deployment initiative and Utah’s broader Connecting the West Program. The project is designed to improve intersection safety, enhance multimodal mobility, support connected vehicle applications, and modernize traffic signal operations across the state.
Following a comprehensive evaluation of six lidar-based solutions, the Econolite solution proposed with its partner Ouster scored the highest in the testing process. As a result, Econolite was contracted to deliver an integrated traffic management platform combining 3D lidar sensing, AI-powered perception software, adaptive traffic signal integration, and Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communications capabilities. The solution is being deployed at more than 100 intersections statewide and establishes a scalable foundation for Utah’s future connected transportation ecosystem.
By leveraging real-time multimodal detection and digital traffic intelligence, the system enhances safety for all roadway users while providing transportation agencies with unprecedented visibility into intersection operations and traffic flow.
The Challenge
Utah experiences increasing traffic volumes, evolving mobility demands, and heightened expectations for roadway safety. These traffic challenges are also compounded by extreme weather condition. UDOT sought a solution capable of supporting multiple transportation objectives simultaneously, including:
- Improving safety for vulnerable roadway users (VRUs)
- Enhancing vehicle and multimodal detection accuracy
- Supporting statewide connected vehicle and V2X initiatives
- Increasing operational awareness at intersections and midblock locations
- Ensuring reliable detection during challenging lighting and adverse weather events
- Establishing infrastructure capable of supporting future mobility technologies and safety applications
UDOT needed a next-generation sensor solution capable of producing precise, real-time information about vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and roadway conditions across a diverse statewide network.
The Evaluation Process
The Econolite-Ouster integrated lidar traffic signal detection solution combines Ouster’s digital lidar platform and Gemini Detect perception software with Econolite’s traffic signal controller technologies and firmware.
System Deployment
To support its statewide safety and mobility objectives, UDOT deployed a comprehensive lidar-based traffic detection ecosystem at signalized intersections throughout Utah. The solution combines high-resolution digital lidar that seamlessly integrates with Utah’s existing transportation infrastructure, including Econolite’s Cobalt® traffic signal controllers and EOS firmware. This solution creates a fully integrated platform for real-time traffic management. AI-powered perception software continuously detects, classifies, and tracks vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists, enabling multimodal signal actuation based on actual roadway demand. The system also integrates with roadside units (RSUs) and Utah’s connected vehicle infrastructure, while ITS Edge computing technology processes and distributes real-time traffic, mobility, and safety data to support advanced V2X communications, operational analytics, and intersection safety applications.
The lidar solution creates a real-time 3D digital traffic twin of each intersection. The system continuously detects and tracks vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and other roadway users, providing precise spatial awareness and traffic intelligence regardless of lighting conditions.
Moreover, the real-time traffic data collected supports both operational and safety applications, enabling more responsive signal control while generating the information needed for advanced V2X communications and incident awareness.
Results
The statewide deployment is delivering a modernized traffic management ecosystem designed to improve traffic operations, increase safety, and support Utah’s long-term connected transportation strategy.
Key Operational Benefits
- Real-time 3D detection of vehicles and pedestrians
- Optimized traffic signal timing based on real-time conditions
- Comprehensive intersection analytics and performance monitoring
- Reliable operation in day, night, and adverse weather conditions
- Scalable deployment across more than 100 intersections statewide
Safety and Connected Mobility Benefits
- Enhanced protection for VRUs
- Automatic support for extended pedestrian crossing intervals
- Identification of potential roadway conflicts and safety risks
- Connected vehicle safety messages using accurate geolocation and trajectory data
- Improved awareness of roadway hazards
- Expanded support for future connected vehicle applications
Conclusion
The Utah statewide LiDAR Traffic Signal Detection System Program demonstrates how advanced sensing technologies can transform modern transportation networks. By combining lidar, AI, adaptive signal operations, and connected vehicle communications into a unified platform, Utah is creating a safer, smarter, and more responsive roadway environment for all users.
The deployment establishes a national model for large-scale intelligent infrastructure implementation, providing transportation agencies with the tools needed to improve mobility, increase safety, and prepare for the future of connected vehicle operations. With deployments continuing through 2029, Utah’s investment in lidar-powered traffic management is positioning the state as a leader in next-generation transportation innovation.