What is the definition of cycle length in traffic signals?

Cycle length in traffic signals refers to the time it takes for one complete sequence of all traffic signal phases to occur from the start of a specific display until that same display is presented again. This includes the green, yellow, and red phases for all approaches at an intersection.

Understanding cycle length is crucial for traffic engineers and technicians as it directly impacts the overall efficiency of traffic flow at signalized intersections. It helps determine how long vehicles and pedestrians must wait at red lights, and how long they are allowed to proceed on green, thereby influencing traffic congestion and safety.

The duration of just a green phase describes only part of the complete operational cycle of a traffic signal and does not account for the total time from the beginning of one green display to the next. The time duration of all phases combined would be relevant, but cycle length specifically emphasizes the complete cycle back to the starting display. Therefore, the precise definition highlights the full sequence necessary to return to the same traffic signal indication.