More traffic agents, AI and QR codes to deal with ‘unprecedented’ Toronto road closures

The agency that oversees transportation services across Toronto says its congestion management plan needs to be updated given what it calls an “unprecedented amount of construction road closures.”

In a report to the City’s Infrastructure and Environment Committee, the general manager of transportation services says construction road closures coupled with “significant demand” for special events across the city post-pandemic require comprehensive traffic management strategies to minimize the impacts for motorists, cyclists, pedestrians and transit.

The report calls for the use of more police as traffic agents, developing a system of QR codes for each construction project where the user can scan and see the work zone details, and details a plan for third-generation AI traffic signal systems.

Roger Browne, the director of traffic management, says the dedicated traffic management team will work with Toronto police, Toronto Parking Authorities, the TTC and Metrolinx to improve traffic planning around major events such as Pride, Caribbean Carnival and the upcoming 2026 World Cup, as well as coordinate with ongoing construction.

Brown says that by March 2024, the city will have 45 traffic agents ready to be deployed. Currently, they have 12 on the streets.

The report will go before the committee next Wednesday before being considered by City Council at its next meeting on Nov. 8.