Ask The Mayor

Q. - Why, ever since the camera was installed at Hwy 205 and 80, is the light cycle off so often?

 

It is not unusual to have the light short-cycling in the mornings, and less frequently, in the evenings.

 

Is this a way to harvest more money from cities' latest cash crop?

 

Answer - Thank you for your question.

 

The red light camera system is passive in terms of the light sequencing controls. The camera system only receives a signal that indicates the light changes.

 

State highway light signals are operated by The Texas Department of Transportation not the City. I have been passing through that intersection 4-6 times per day for about 20 years. The periodic messed up phasing of that light is not a new thing. I inquired about this not long ago and was told that the controller's programming can become out of phase. Under certain conditions the controller resets itself.

 

As of January 31, the City has made $21,752.50 on our red light system. The City's purpose in installing the system was to increase safety by reducing the number of red light runners. From my observation it was a very popular thing to do until the cameras were installed.

 

In response to your question, I will ask City Staff to request Texas Dept of Transportation to check the signal sequencing.

 

Sincerely,

 

Hal Richards, Mayor