Trailblazing Smart Crosswalk Technology Protecting Pedestrians in Peachtree Corners
Peachtree Corners, Georgia – a trailblazer in smart city innovation – is making significant strides in pedestrian and roadway safety. Partnering with ConnVAS, a leader in intelligent traffic solutions, the city has launched a live pilot project to test an advanced AI-driven crosswalk system.
This initiative, taking place outside Pinckneyville Middle School, is designed to address the critical challenges of pedestrian safety by introducing real-time detection and alert systems that improve visibility and awareness for both road users and vulnerable road users (VRUs).
The Evolution of Intelligent Crosswalks
Traditional pedestrian crossings rely on user activation—pressing a button to trigger lights or signals. However, many accidents occur when pedestrians forget to activate these systems, cross outside designated zones, or when drivers fail to notice crossing signals in time.
The ConnVAS pilot in Peachtree Corners is tackling these challenges head-on with an innovative approach that eliminates the need for manual activation while integrating real-time alerts to improve reaction times for all road users.
How the ConnVAS MAGIC System Works
The ConnVAS system, known as MAGIC (Multi-Access Generic Infrastructure Controller), leverages AI-driven edge computing to create a safer pedestrian experience. Here’s how it works:
- Advanced Cameras – Mounted on Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) poles, these cameras continuously monitor pedestrian and vehicle movement.
- AI-Powered Detection – Using machine learning algorithms, the system instantly detects pedestrians, cyclists, and approaching vehicles.
- V2X Transceivers – Facilitating vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2X) communication, the system warns connected vehicles of crossing activity.
- Audio-Visual Alerts – If a pedestrian enters the crosswalk, even without pressing a button, the system automatically activates flashing beacons and audio warnings for approaching drivers and pedestrians alike.
- Data Collection & Analysis – Capturing anonymous data on pedestrian crossings, near-misses, vehicle speeds, and traffic volumes, providing valuable insights for urban planning and road safety improvements.
Pilot Results: Real-World Data Validates Effectiveness
Initial findings from a 72-hour midweek data collection phase have revealed insightful trends:
- 220 pedestrian crossings recorded over 70 crossing events.
- Three false alarms—demonstrating high accuracy in detection.
- Seamless real-time alert activation for pedestrians and drivers.
- Traffic pattern data collected to aid city planners in making informed infrastructure decisions.
Brandon Branham, Executive Director of Curiosity Lab at Peachtree Corners, highlighted the significance of the project: “Peachtree Corners is dedicated to implementing technology solutions that address real-world safety challenges for our residents. The ConnVAS system enhances safety by addressing key issues such as failure to press crosswalk buttons, pedestrians crossing outside designated areas, and drivers failing to detect VRUs in time. With AI-driven detection and real-time alerts, this pilot not only improves safety today but also generates valuable insights for future urban planning.”
The Road to Smarter, Safer Cities
As the pilot progresses, further improvements and refinements are being tested, including:
- Fully autonomous operation to remove the reliance on manual activation and further reduce false alarms.
- Cyclist-friendly designs ensuring two-wheeled commuters benefit from the system.
- Expanded V2X connectivity, enhancing communication with connected and autonomous vehicles.
- Dynamic illumination features, adjusting street lighting based on pedestrian location for enhanced visibility.
Danny Frydman, Founder and CEO of ConnVAS, is optimistic about the future applications of the technology: “This pilot has been instrumental in refining our system’s AI detection, ensuring faster and more reliable activation of alerts. By continuously improving accuracy and reducing reaction times, we’re addressing the most critical safety concerns—missed warnings, delayed driver awareness, and unsafe pedestrian behaviour. We hope to scale this technology throughout the city as the pilot evolves.”
Peachtree Corners: A Model for Smart City Innovation
As one of the United States’ premier smart cities, Peachtree Corners serves as a real-world testing ground for connected infrastructure, IoT, and 5G-enabled solutions. Known as #SiliconOrchard, the city has attracted top-tier technology firms and continues to push the boundaries of smart urban development. Notable innovations already in place include:
- Teleoperated e-scooters, ensuring safer micro-mobility options.
- Fully autonomous shuttles, serving real commuters.
- Solar roadways, harnessing renewable energy for urban infrastructure.
- The largest EV fast-charging hub in the South-eastern US.
Curiosity Lab, a 5G-enabled smart city living laboratory in Peachtree Corners, plays a crucial role in facilitating these advancements. Offering a three-mile autonomous vehicle lane, IoT Central Control Room, and cutting-edge smart city infrastructure, Curiosity Lab provides companies with a real-world environment to test and refine emerging mobility and smart city solutions.
A Scalable Safety Solution
The ConnVAS pilot is not just a one-off experiment; it represents a significant shift towards intelligent urban mobility. By integrating AI-driven pedestrian detection with V2X communication and real-time alerts, the system has the potential to redefine how cities approach pedestrian and roadway safety. With further refinements and city-wide deployment, this technology could become a global standard for smart crosswalks.
For cities worldwide grappling with pedestrian safety challenges, Peachtree Corners is setting an example of how technology and urban infrastructure can work hand in hand to create safer, smarter, and more efficient roads.
