Holistic framework for optimisation of life-cycle maintenance of the Hong Kong traffic signal system

A central control traffic signal system covering 1800 signalised junctions is operating round the clock in Hong Kong for proper allocation of the right-of-ways at road junctions, and safe movement of vehicles and pedestrians in the built-up area, concentrated in less than 30% of this small city of 1100 km2. The Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) of the HKSAR Government is responsible for maintaining this territory-wide traffic signal system, which is centrally controlled by computer systems installed in Area Traffic Control centres, providing optimum traffic signal timings to minimise vehicular stops, journey times and delays of motorists and pedestrians. To optimise life-cycle management of these systems, EMSD implemented a holistic asset management system (AMS) including compliance with the Publicly Available Specification 55 as well as a geographical information system (GIS) interface with real-time asset condition representations. The GIS is under development as part and parcel of the framework for further enhancement of the life-cycle maintenance and effectiveness of the AMS. © 2014 The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers.