A New Color on Traffic Lights Could Be Coming to Louisiana Intersections – Here’s Why

NEW ORLEANS, La. (KPEL News) - Louisiana intersections might one day look different, with the familiar red, yellow, and green lights potentially gaining a new color: white.

Researchers from NC State University have long proposed a “white phase” traffic signal designed to improve traffic flow as autonomous vehicles (AVs) become more prevalent on the roads. The white light would signal human drivers to follow the car ahead, allowing AVs to help guide traffic, reduce delays, and lower fuel consumption at busy intersections.

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What Is the White Light Phase?

The white light concept aims to support a mix of autonomous and human-driven vehicles, or connected autonomous vehicles (CAVs). During the white phase, AVs would take on a “mobile control” role, working with traffic lights to direct the flow of traffic through intersections. Under this system:

• White light: Signals drivers to follow the vehicle in front, as AVs control traffic flow.
• Red light: Maintains its meaning to stop.
• Green light: Continues to indicate “go.”
• Yellow light: Warns drivers to prepare to stop.

In the white phase, AVs would coordinate their movements through wireless communication to navigate human-driven vehicles safely. Human drivers would need only to follow the car ahead, without changing lanes or attempting to pass. If too few AVs are present, the intersection reverts to traditional signals.

Why Researchers Believe Louisiana Could Benefit

Louisiana, known for its busy intersections and reliance on vehicle travel, might see substantial benefits from the white light concept if AVs gain traction. Researchers found that the white phase could reduce delays and save fuel:

• 3% reduction in travel delay when only 10% of vehicles are autonomous
• 10% reduction in travel delay when AVs reach 50% of traffic
• Up to 13% reduction in fuel consumption as AV adoption grows

These potential improvements could ease congestion on Louisiana’s urban roads, especially in New Orleans and Baton Rouge, where traffic congestion is a growing concern.

How the White Light Phase Works

The concept relies on distributed computing among AVs. Instead of one traffic controller managing the intersection, each AV communicates its position and intentions with nearby vehicles and the traffic signal. This “mobile control” approach reduces dependence on centralized computing, which could falter under high traffic or communication delays.

Dr. Ali Hajbabaie, a co-developer of the white phase concept, explains that AVs are essentially “mobile controllers,” directing nearby human-driven cars through the intersection safely. Real-world testing is underway, including simulations and small-scale models, to ensure the technology operates smoothly.

Challenges and Considerations for Louisiana

Implementing the white light phase in Louisiana would require some preparation, education, and adaptation. Some considerations include:

1. Infrastructure Upgrades: AV-compatible traffic lights would be essential for signaling the white phase, which could require significant investments.
2. Driver Education: Educating Louisiana drivers on how to respond to the white light would be critical, as the concept is new and unfamiliar.
3. Timing: Full implementation of the white phase depends on the widespread adoption of AVs, which might be years away. Until then, the system may only operate effectively in specific settings, like commercial transport hubs.

A Safer, More Efficient Future?

Louisiana could see safety and efficiency benefits from AV integration, especially at high-traffic intersections. Researchers see potential use cases beyond regular roads, such as commercial ports and delivery hubs where autonomous vehicles are already being adopted. Dr. Leila Hajibabai, a co-author, also mentioned that commercial vehicles could be an ideal starting point since these sites experience high volumes of AV-compatible traffic.

What’s Next for Louisiana Roads?

While the white phase technology isn’t yet ready for widespread adoption, experts believe it’s worth preparing Louisiana’s infrastructure and educating drivers about the potential benefits. As AV technology advances, the white phase could help reduce bottlenecks, improve air quality by decreasing fuel use, and offer safer intersection management for Louisiana drivers.

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White Lights in Louisiana

As autonomous vehicle technology advances, Louisiana drivers may one day see a white light at intersections, indicating that AVs are guiding traffic flow. Though in its testing phase, the white phase has the potential to reduce delays and fuel consumption, especially in congested areas.

With infrastructure investment and driver education, Louisiana could become a model for integrating this innovative traffic solution to create safer, more efficient roads.