Roswell to install traffic-signal preemption citywide to speed emergency response

Roswell will install traffic-signal preemption technology at all city intersections to give approaching emergency vehicles priority and, a city staff member said, reduce response times by as much as 20%.

A city staff member described the system and its intended benefits: "In an emergency every second counts that's why Roswell is installing cutting edge traffic preemption technology at all intersections throughout the city. This system gives emergency vehicles like fire trucks a green light while bringing cross traffic at the intersection safely to a halt." The staff member added that the technology "can reduce response times by as much as 20%. Getting life saving help to those who need it quickly and safely. Faster response times, fewer crashes, safer roads for everyone."

According to the staff member's description, the system uses GPS and cellular technology installed on emergency vehicles to communicate wirelessly with traffic signals and request a green light as a vehicle approaches an intersection. The system also triggers a yellow then red light for cross traffic to clear the way for the emergency vehicle.

The announcement states the installation will be citywide, covering "all intersections throughout the city." The staff member did not specify a timeline for installation, funding sources, which city departments will lead the work, or whether the project requires outside approvals.

There was no formal vote or ordinance cited in the announcement; the transcript records an informational presentation only. Officials did not provide additional technical specifications, procurement details, or an implementation schedule during the remarks.