What is the primary distinction between TSP and typical signal operations?

The primary distinction between Transit Signal Priority (TSP) and typical signal operations lies in the function and objective of TSP, which is to actively prioritize transit vehicles, such as buses and trams, over other road users. This adjustment aims to improve the efficiency and reliability of public transit systems, ensuring that transit vehicles can maintain their schedules and reduce overall travel times.

In typical signal operations, all vehicles, including private cars and trucks, are treated equally, with signal phases designed primarily to balance flow among different types of vehicles without prioritizing one over the others. TSP modifies this approach by altering signal timings or phases in real-time based on the presence of transit vehicles, allowing them to receive green lights sooner or longer than usual, thereby enhancing public transit service.

This distinction highlights the innovative approach of TSP in addressing transit needs within the existing traffic signal infrastructure, rather than diminishing the significance of traffic signals, being employed only at specific times or operating independently from existing signals.