Smart Intersections Act of 2021
This bill aims to establish a grant program called the 'Smart Technology Traffic Signals Grant Program' by the Secretary of Transportation. The program is designed to improve the functioning of traffic signals through the use of innovative technology to reduce traffic congestion, improve road safety, decrease fuel costs, reduce air pollution, and enhance emergency response.
Key Points:
- Grant Program Establishment: The Secretary will establish a grant program within 180 days to fund eligible entities for improving traffic signal operations.
- Grant Usage: Funds can be used for active management of traffic signals, implementation of strategies, replacement of outdated signals, and temporary staffing for technology updates.
- Funding: The Federal government will cover up to 80% of project costs, with the rest possibly coming from in-kind contributions.
- Prohibition: Grants cannot be used for automated traffic enforcement systems.
GAO Study:
A study on reducing greenhouse gas emissions through traffic system efficiency improvements must be conducted and submitted to Congress within 1 year of the bill's enactment.