Artificial intelligence is set to be used in Hull in order to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution.
The City Council has awarded a contract to Huddersfield-based Simplifai Systems to develop traffic management systems, to improve traffic flow.
“This exciting project is an example of how new AI technology can make better use of our existing traffic signal assets and improve how we manage traffic to make the road network safer, greener and more efficient,” explained Councillor Mark Ieronimo, Portfolio Holder for Roads, Highways and Transportation.
Simplifai works alongside Dr Mauro Vallati, Professor of AI at the University of Huddersfield, and his research team on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in transport systems.
They’ve been brought in to create a system to access the council’s existing information on congestion, traffic lights, bus movements, incidents and air quality to source new insights into the road network and generate real-time strategies to solve complex traffic control issues.
“We are excited about working with Hull City Council to help deliver part of the Smart City technology,” added Keith McCabe, CEO of Simplifai Systems.
“This builds on our work in the North of England using AI to tap into the data collected by existing systems and turn it into knowledge that can be used by the council to improve the reliability of the transport networks and assist in achieving net zero outcomes.”
The project will be trialled in Hull for 2 years as part of an ongoing government-funded traffic signals initiative.
