Ramp meters have become a rather common site along U.S. 95 in the northwest part of the valley and starting next week they will make their debut in downtown Las Vegas. The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC)  and the Nevada Department of Transportation  will activate ramp meters at two downtown Las Vegas locations on Wednesday, Jan. 17. These locations along Interstate 515 (U.S. 95) include the Las Vegas Boulevard northbound ramp as well as the Eastern Avenue northbound and southbound ramps.

The red and green light traffic signal regulates the flow of traffic in a timed, spaced manner, reducing accidents and traffic backups caused by merging. Research shows that most freeway accidents occur during stop-and-go traffic conditions by inattentive drivers. Ramp metering provides a smoother flow of traffic, helping to minimize the problem.

The ramp meters will operate only when the freeway is congested, usually during morning and evening peak commute times. Ramp meter traffic will not be allowed to back up beyond the ramp itself. Sensors will increase the signal cycle to allow cars to enter the freeway at a faster rate. Failing to stop at a ramp meter, when it is in operation, is a traffic violation and can result in a fine.

All metered ramps will have a sign at the entrance letting drivers know if the meters are turned on or not. Using either lane, motorists pull up to the stop bar, which is a white line painted on the pavement adjacent to the ramp signal, and wait for the green light. The signal will change more rapidly than a signal at an intersection.  When the signal turns to green, proceed along the ramp and merge safely onto the freeway. There is no yellow light. 

Additional ramp meters will be activated on Tuesday, Feb. 13 along Interstate 15. These include the southbound Sahara Avenue ramp, the northbound Tropicana Avenue ramp, and the northbound and southbound ramps at Charleston Boulevard, Spring Mountain Road, Flamingo Road and Russell Road.

For more information, visit the RTC’s Web site  or call 676-1606.