This contention is unfounded. The traffic engineer, when producing a traffic signal timing plan for an intersection, is concerned with safety and efficiency of the intersection for pedestrian and vehicular traffic. The guidance provided on traffic signal timing published by ITE is based on extensive findings of scientifically conducted studies and peer review. In August 1994, ITE published an informational report entitled Determining Vehicle Signal Change and Clearance Intervals. Since Armey s contention is wrong and the material used to construct the contention is taken out of context, ITE is preparing a report documenting the history and rationale for changes made to the guidance provided by ITE and others concerning the calculation of vehicle signal change and clearance intervals.
Enforcement is generally an issue outside the purview of the engineering profession.
Decisions on the methods of enforcement, including the use of automated enforcement to supplement police enforcement, is most often made by state and local governments and law enforcement agencies. ITE s policy supports enforcement of traffic laws, regulations and obedience of traffic control devices, where such devices are implemented under proper guidelines, to promote safety, maintain operational efficiency and generate respect for traffic control devices. ITE is on record that red-light running automated enforcement not be applied where intersection design, traffic control and signal timing do not meet standards of practice. ITE welcomes the opportunity to work with Dick Armey, other members of Congress and others to address the nation s intersection safety problem. To do so effectively, we need the partnership of the public policy-maker and the allied partners in the safety and enforcement communities.