(is it necessary?)

By: Tim Torrini per. two

Ramp meters are the “stop and go signals located at the entrance ramps of freeways to regulate the amount of vehicles entering. By limiting the amount of vehicles it allows traffic to have higher speed,be more “free flowing”, and cause less traffic jams.

Ramp meters respond to actual traffic conditions. Every 1/2 mile under-pavement sensors, called loop detectors, register how frequently and quickly vehicles pass over them.

More than 200 closed-circuit cameras spaced about 1 mile apart and changeable message signs attached to overpasses are also hard- wired to these cabinets. Cameras can pan 350 degrees, tilt and zoom.

On average, drivers wait lessthan five minutes at rampmeters even during peak rushhours.

“Ramp metering has demonstrated effectiveness in increasing mainline speed by approximately 20% and reducing travel time, congestion and accidents.” - New York State Department of Transportation.

I feel that ramp metering is necessary to make commuting safer for the drivers. Although there is a small wait on the ramps, the meters make travel easier once you are on the freeway. With higher speeds, less congestion and accidentsI feel that ramp meters are the way to go.