Erie PA installs iDS citywide for touchless access

Problem

Erie Pennsylvania has intersections with heavy pedestrian traffic and pedestrian crossings over train tracks and along emergency vehicle routes. Winter snow brings snowplows that often knock down pedestrian button poles. The city is committed to pedestrian safety and accessibility, and needs a reliable, cost-effective accessible pedestrian signal (APS) system while avoiding frequent service calls and expensive pre-programming.

Solution

After evaluating several options, the City of Erie specified Polara’s iDS2 APS for all new or modified pedestrian projects. The iDS2 stood out because of its proven reliability, ease of installation, and robust support from Polara. TPI and Polara held an in-person training session with Erie’s staff and the installing contractor, ensuring cost-effective implementation. The free Field Service app made installing the iDS2 simple, saving thousands in pre-programming fees charged for competing APS. The iDetect radar sensor makes the iDS2 usable through snow, allowing snowplow drivers to stay farther from pedestrian poles and reduce knockdowns. And the iDS2’s emergency and rail preemption alert pedestrians to oncoming hazards, improving safety.

Results

The decision to adopt Polara’s iDS2 APS had measurable benefits for the City of Erie:

1. Cost Savings:
   The City and contractors have saved thousands of dollars in pre-programming fees and avoided costly return visits, thanks to the ease of installation and use of the Polara system.
2. Improved Safety:
   Pedestrians, including those with visual disabilities, now have an easy and reliable way to navigate crosswalks, with advance warning of approaching trains and emergency vehicles.
3. Winter Performance:
   The iDetect feature has been a game-changer in snow-heavy conditions. Snowplows can operate more effectively without worrying about damaging pedestrian buttons, and the iDetect technology ensures that the APS systems continue to function properly, even under piles of snow.
4. Community Impact:
   The performance of the iDS2 has made Erie safer and inspired wider regional adoption, improving pedestrian safety and accessibility across the region.

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