LOCHEM –
The province of Gelderland is working on smart signaling (instructions) to help cyclists cross safely at the intersection of Broekstraat in Lochem with Nettelhorsterweg (N825). They will install the system between April 30 and May 2, 2024 and it will be active immediately.
Deputy Klaas Ruitenberg: “This innovative system has never before been used outside built-up areas in the Netherlands, so the N825 is a first! The system is aimed at the road safety of cyclists. Especially on a busy 80 road, it can sometimes be difficult for cyclists to properly estimate when they can cross safely. It is possible that this system can also be used in other places in Gelderland after a positive trial period.”
Construction work
They will install the smart signaling from April 30 to May 2, 2024. This is done with a lane closure, whereby traffic on the N825 is allowed to pass through the work area one by one. Traffic will then be controlled with a temporary traffic control system or traffic controllers.
How does smart signaling work?
The Smart signaling system helps cyclists cross the road where they travel at 80 kilometers per hour. It is for the crossing cyclist and not car traffic. The system uses radar to estimate the vehicle’s speed. This also happens for traffic coming from a side road. The crossing cyclist then receives a signal via the LED lighting in the asphalt. The cyclist can cross or has to wait. There are signs at the crossing with a simple and understandable explanation for the cyclist.
The system is based on the ‘bike scout’ system that is used in built-up areas. Cyclist safety improves by 65% with this system. The system has never been used outside built-up areas before.
Completion of Nettelhorsterweg phase 1: The Smartest Road
The Province of Gelderland has been working with the citizens’ initiative ‘De Slimste Weg’ on the N825 since 2019 in the field of road safety, health and quality of life. As part of this project, she previously installed a center conductor at the intersection on Broekstraat to improve road safety. The Smart signaling is an additional measure to make the intersection even safer. The measures are part of the 1st phase of the adjustments to the Nettelhorsterweg. This phase will be completed soon.
Evaluation
During the 3-month trial period, we and the contractor will monitor experiences with this smart signaling. They will evaluate the results in September 2024. We may subsequently also deploy the system in other places in Gelderland.
