Council approves $2.6M contract for Middlebrook Pike traffic signal modernization

The City Council approved a contract with Stansell Electric Co. Inc. not to exceed $2,586,516.50 to implement an Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS) along Middlebrook Pike.

The project covers about 23 signalized intersections along the corridor and will install fiber-optic communications to link each signal back to city operations, enabling remote troubleshooting and real-time signal timing adjustments, city staff said. The contract also includes a companion engineering and inspection services agreement with Barge Design Solutions for $591,529.44.

"It—s gonna include communications, fiber optic connecting each signal, and that fiber optic line communications line will go back to our offices at Morris Avenue," Director Clabo said, describing the system—s centralized control and remote troubleshooting capability. He told council the system will allow automated adjustments to signal timing in response to directional surges of traffic and will replace aging clock-based timing.

Council members noted expected benefits beyond reduced congestion. Council member Thomas framed the project as an environmental improvement, saying fewer idling vehicles at poorly timed signals will reduce fuel consumption.

Council member Singh confirmed the project includes signals along parts of University Avenue and noted particular congestion points along the corridor.

City staff said the project is in the right-of-way phase and that construction is expected in summer 2026 with a roughly 18-month construction period.

The council approved the contract and related engineering services on voice votes.