Cookeville approves AI traffic-detection pilot for five intersections

The Cookeville City Council on a 4-0 vote approved the purchase of five Curex Vision AI smart-city intersection systems and associated cameras, mounts and accessories for $77,693 under a BuyBoard cooperative contract.

The systems, presented by public works staff, use cameras and artificial intelligence to detect vehicles, extract traffic analytics and provide corridor-level signal optimization rather than per-intersection timing changes. The purchase was described as a budgeted item intended for locations within the Jefferson or Willow corridors.

Public works staff said the Curex systems integrate with existing traffic cabinets, monitors and controllers and produce continuous traffic analytics and reports. The systems are intended to optimize flow across a corridor and to generate 24/7 data that the city can share with the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) for ongoing corridor planning and signal improvements.

Council members who spoke during the discussion described the purchase as an “engineering platform” and asked staff to treat the installation as a pilot and a learning process. Council members emphasized the system is not an immediate fix but said continuous data from the devices would strengthen the city’s requests to TDOT and help target future investments.

The motion to approve was made and seconded on the floor; the Council recorded a 4-0 vote in favor and the purchase moved forward.

The city estimated a 6–8 week lead time for delivery. Staff said the purchase was within the budgeted amount for transportation improvements and asked Council to approve placement at five intersections as the initial pilot.

Council members agreed the pilot will help the city gain operational control of signals and supply real-time data to TDOT for future corridor decisions. Staff will report back to the council with implementation details and results from the pilot.