Tyler Traffic Light Detectors Help Emergency Crews

Those White Boxes on Tyler Stoplights? Here's What They Really Are

Tyler residents have increasingly noticed small, white boxes, some featuring clear domes, affixed to the top of traffic signals across the city. Often sparking speculation about new red-light cameras or tracking devices, the City of Tyler's Traffic Department clarifies their true purpose: traffic signal preemption devices designed to assist emergency vehicles.

These devices, specifically known as "OptiCom" optical detectors, have been a part of Tyler's traffic infrastructure for years, though their visibility seems to have increased recently, leading to public queries. Their primary function is to detect a special strobe light emitted by emergency vehicles, such as fire trucks and ambulances. Upon detection, the system changes the traffic light to green in the direction of the approaching emergency vehicle, significantly reducing response times.

John N. Baker, the Tyler Traffic Engineer, directly addressed public concerns, stating, "They are specifically for emergency vehicles only." He emphasized that the devices are not red-light cameras, do not issue tickets to civilian drivers, and are not designed for citizen tracking.

The preemption system is widely implemented across Tyler. Of the city's approximately 156 signalized intersections, roughly 95% are equipped with these detectors. Residents may have observed them at various locations, including a notable example at ESE Loop 323 and Old Jacksonville in Tyler, Texas.

The technology aims to enhance public safety by ensuring emergency responders can navigate the city's intersections more efficiently, ultimately helping them reach incidents and emergencies faster.