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Council considers app and camera-based train detection to reduce commuter delays at crossings
Summary
Staff described an approach that would use cameras and predictive algorithms to detect trains and share data through a city mobile app; preliminary vendor interest and pilot offers (camera software trials) were noted, with estimated cost ranges dependent on scope and hardware needs.
Council members discussed a proposed city mobile app and a related technology pilot to reduce train-related commuter delays at key crossings. Staff said vendors offered to install software on city cameras to detect trains via algorithms and that some firms might pilot the software for free to test predictive modeling at the Center Street crossing; Salt Lake City uses a company (TrainInfo) for similar purposes.
Estimates for a one-stop public-facing app varied widely depending on required camera hardware and railroad-data interfaces, with staff giving a rough range between $10,000–$100,000 depending on whether the app is a vendor-hosted module or custom-developed; staff proposed exploring grants and vendor partnerships and will pursue additional information before any procurement decision.
