Webinar Series: Traffic Signal Timing 101 – The Basics of Local Intersection Control

2 min. Read • Posted 01/26/2021 by David Sadeghi

Iteris is proud to join the Florida LTAP Center in presenting a three-part webinar series on Traffic Signal Timing 101 – The Basics of Local Intersection Control. Presented by Iteris' Peter Yauch and John Albeck, the series is divided into three two-hour webinars designed to provide participants with an understanding of the operation of local intersection signal controllers, and the various timing parameters needed for the safe and efficient operation of the intersection. This series addresses local intersection control operations; a subsequent series will cover the basics of detection, preemption and priority, and signal coordination.

Learning Objectives

  • Understand basic traffic flow characteristics and roadway capacities as they relate to signalized intersections.
  • Understand intersection phasing needs and the timing interval components of each phase.
  • Understand controller ring structure.
  • Recognize the different types of signal controllers and how they can be used for intersection operations.
  • Understand the ring-based structure of controllers and how signal phase sequences can impact operations.

Each session will award two professional development hours (PDHs) each. A total of six PDHs can be earned for fully attending all three sessions.

Part 1 of 3 – Basic Vehicular Timing Considerations and Signal Phasing/Intervals (2/3/2021)
In this first session, we will introduce the course objectives, goals, and glossary of terms. The following topics will be covered: Traffic Flow Theory, Greenshields Equation for Discharge, Saturation Flow Rate, Lane Capacity, Intersection Capacity, Through Movements, Left Turn Movements (Protected, Permitted, Protected/Permitted), Vehicular Intervals, and Pedestrian Intervals.

Register for Part 1 here

Part 2 of 3 – Phasing Sequences and Signal Controllers (2/10/2021)
In this second session, we will cover the following topics: Through Movements, Left Turn Movements, Left Turn Trap, Split Phasing, Overlaps, Pedestrian Movements, Leading Pedestrian Intervals, Fixed Time Controllers, Actuated Controllers, Controller Standards, and Ring Structure.

Register for Part 2 here

Part 3 of 3 – Phase Intervals Safety and Efficiency (2/17/2021)
In this third session, we will cover the following topics: Safety Walk, Pedestrian Change, Yellow Change, Red Clearance, Minimum Green, Extension/Passage, Maximums, and Volume-Density.

Register for Part 3 here


About the Author:

David Sadeghi

David Sadeghi is senior manager, digital marketing at Iteris.

Connect with David on Twitter and LinkedIn.

About the Author

David Sadeghi is director, digital marketing at Iteris.

Connect with David Sadeghi on LinkedIn

Related Posts

Prep for and Manage Back-to-School Congestion Changes with Iteris ClearGuide

4 min. Read • Posted 08/25/2026 by Jeff Venables
As the school year resumes across the country, local communities are facing increased congestion and a substantial uptick in the presence of vulnerable road users around school zones, creating new safety and mobility challenges. Thankfully, with the right tools, many of these changes are foreseeable.See More >

Watch: Why the Future of Transportation Depends on Hardware and Software Working Together

2 min. Read • Posted 08/11/2026 by Ahmad Jawad
A Chat with Iteris on Local 4 News in Detroit at ITS America 2026See More >

What’s Driving the DRAM Shortage – And What It Means for Transportation Technology

4 min. Read • Posted 07/23/2026 by Todd Kreter
Across industries, organizations are contending with longer lead times and limited supply for advanced electronic systems. These limited supplies include memory devices, power circuitry and hard disk drives. The major driver? The explosive growth of AI and AI data centers. See More >

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Receive smart mobility news and analysis direct to your inbox.