TfGM partners with Google on AI project to reduce emissions and improve traffic flow in Greater Manchester

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has announced a partnership with Google to use AI to improve traffic flow in the city-region and reduce stop-and-go emissions.

TfGM oversees a signal network that includes 2,500 sets of traffic signals across all 10 boroughs of Greater Manchester. The Green Light project will be the first such partnership in the UK that deploys Google’s expertise in AI and data to improve traffic management, with Google also working with 11 other cities around the world.

During the project Google reviewed traffic movements, and provided recommendations where there was potential to change signal timing and provide an overall reduction in stop-and-go traffic. Where recommended changes were implemented, updated signal timings led to an average improvement of 9% during the morning peak period and 18% during the afternoon peak period.

David Atkin, TfGM’s analysis and reporting manager, said:

“Greater Manchester’s road network – which includes 2,400 traffic signals and millions of journeys every week – is complex and managing it a challenge when balancing the needs of motorists, cyclists, pedestrians and public transport users.

“With traffic levels now at or beyond pre-pandemic levels, we are working really hard to tackle congestion and are delighted to be amongst the first areas in the World – and the first in the UK – to work with Google on the innovative Green Light initiative.

“Our aim is to make the network run as efficiently and sustainably as possible and the pilot provided valuable insights, with teams from both Green Light and TfGM bringing expertise and ideas to the table to reduce stop-and-go traffic and emissions.”

In a blog post, Google’s VP, Research and Engineering, Yossi Matias, commented:

“By working with cities globally, we can help both people and the planet. Our technology has shown success in cities like Seattle and Hamburg — and the potential for impact is even more significant in cities with less access to advanced technology.”