The Cosumnes Fire Department has recently introduced new technology in Elk Grove to improve response times and safety for first responders. LYT.emergency, a cloud-based technology designed to enhance roadway safety and reduce travel times for emergency vehicles, is being tested by the Cosumnes Community Services District and the City of Elk Grove. By utilizing the GPS location of emergency vehicles, traffic lights are able to change to allow first responders to reach their destinations more efficiently.
There are currently 43 traffic signals equipped with this new technology throughout Elk Grove, including popular roads such as Laguna Boulevard, Bond Road, and Elk Grove Boulevard. The primary objective is to minimize traffic disruptions and make it easier and safer for drivers to yield to emergency vehicles at intersections. The technology will undergo a pilot phase for one year to evaluate its effectiveness as a long-term tool for first responders.
Kevin McLean, the First Battalion Chief of the Cosumnes Fire Department, emphasized the importance of avoiding delays in emergency responses, as any delay can significantly impact the survivability rate of patients and victims. Funding for the technology comes from Measure E.
This innovative technology will allow first responders to arrive at their destinations faster and safer while reducing disruptions on busy roads in Elk Grove. It’s an excellent example of how communities can invest in new technologies that benefit everyone involved.
