Cities Test “Rest in Red” Traffic System to Deter Speeding
Cities such as Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Portland, Oregon, are testing a traffic safety approach called "rest in red" that uses speed sensors. This system makes traffic lights default to red but can turn green for drivers adhering to the…
Tampa St. Petersburg, FL, August 29, 2026 — Cities are exploring innovative traffic management strategies aimed at reducing speeding, a common factor in traffic accidents. A system known as “rest in red” is currently being tested in municipalities including Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Portland, Oregon. This approach utilizes speed sensors integrated into the traffic light infrastructure.
The core principle of the “rest in red” system is to make traffic signals default to a red light. However, the system is designed to change the light to green for drivers who are traveling at or below the posted speed limit. This mechanism is intended to create a direct incentive for drivers to slow down, thereby discouraging excessive speeds on city streets.
The primary objective behind implementing this technology is to decrease the number of traffic crashes and reduce traffic-related injuries. By promoting adherence to speed limits, city officials hope to create safer road conditions for all users, including drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. The contractor responsible for the system’s development and installation in these cities was not specified in the information provided. Further details regarding the specific timelines for these tests, the exact locations within the cities where the sensors are deployed, or any preliminary inspection outcomes or permit statuses were not available.
The “rest in red” initiative represents a shift towards proactive traffic safety measures that leverage technology to influence driver behavior in real-time. The success of these pilot programs in Albuquerque and Portland will likely inform future decisions about adopting similar systems in other urban areas.
Story summarized from the original created by AP via Scripps News Group on www.tampabay28.com, see more information here.
