How does the TOC work?

The TOC gathers information about current roadway conditions through the use of closed circuit television (CCTV) surveillance cameras, changeable message signs (CMS) Highway Advisory Radio (HAR) and a fiber optic network placed along major traffic corridors throughout the county.  The TOC also receives traffic data from the California Highway Patrol's Communications Center.  Traffic Engineers then use a combination of this information to adjust the timing of traffic signals to address traffic problems quickly.  Road conditions, such as roadway construction, road closures, and auto accidents can then be communicated to motorists through changeable message signs.

Benefits of the TOC

The TOC is a tool for reducing congestion that benefits motorists.  Through the use of technology, Traffic Engineers have quicker access to more information about the cause of traffic problems.  Faster access to more data for decision making means engineers will be able to address more traffic problems quickly by adjusting traffic signals and rerouting traffic if necessary.