IVLZ services for public transport and road users

Where general traffic obstructions such as partially or completely blocked roads occur due to accidents or other unforeseeable incidents, the IVLZ intervenes directly to minimize the impact on traffic in the state capital. The technological resources available to each of the IVLZ ''s operational partners are used to detect and assess the extent of the current problem. This allows congestion to be reduced by selectively reprogramming traffic light sequences, for instance to extend green periods, and ideally resolved within the shortest possible time. The IVLZ also has the capability to provide recommendations for alternative routes using changeable display boards. -

The IVLZ is informed about all scheduled events which are likely to impact on the traffic situation in the state capital. Concepts are drawn up to deal with this type of plannable event, both for individual road users and for the local public transport network, and the events are integrated into the general traffic control scheme. The elaborated concepts finally form the foundation for the operational work carried out in the control room. Examples include direction of visitor traffic using the optimum route to available parking spaces by the IVLZ using dynamic car park guidance systems. A lane signalling system allows additional traffic lanes to be activated up to ease the flow of arriving or departing visitor traffic.

Lane signals in the NeckarPark (Photo: State Capital Stuttgart)

The IVLZ is comprehensively informed about existing and planned road works or building sites in the urban area, and is involved right from the approval stage of any construction projects likely to impact on traffic. Detailed information on the location and a comprehensive breakdown of individual building phases allow the IVLZ to initiate a targeted response using its technical facilities, so keeping disruption of the transport network to a minmum and making optimum use of all available traffic control measures. These include for instance specially adapted traffic light programs which are activated for the lifetime of the roadworks site. Endeavours are also made - wherever feasible - to arrange for roadworks on highly frequented routes to operate during the hours of night. -

The buses and trams operated by the SSB AG represent an important transport medium for commuters from around the region and local residents from within the City of Stuttgart. The local public transport network does an essential job, catering in particular to the transport needs of commuters and shoppers, and makes a major contribution towards reducing congestion on the urban road network. Technical measures at traffic lights allow buses and trams to be given priority over private road users, speeding their progress and ensuring adherence to timetables. Dedicated bus lanes at the major junctions also contribute towards prioritizing public transport. The IVLZ attaches particular importance to preventing general traffic congestion from affecting public transport system punctuality. Buses held up in traffic, for instance, clock up considerable delays which would make it impossible to adhere to timetables.

Contingency plans are also in place to cope with the light urban railway: If there is any problem on the track, alternative bus transport is laid on. It is then the job of the IVLZ to ensure that the replacement buses run on time.

Integrated Traffic Management Center Stuttgart
Mercedesstraße 33
70372 Stuttgart
Germany

E-Mail: IVLZ@stuttgart.de