SWARCO TO BRING LED VARIABLE SPEED LIMIT SIGNS TO VIRGINIA BEACH SCHOOLS
03/25/2015
SWARCO TRAFFIC AMERICAS is proud to bring its Precision Optic LED Variable Message Signs (VMS) to Virginia Beach, Virginia. SWARCO’s LED Variable Speed Limit (VSL) Signs will inform drivers of changing speed limits in school zones. Multiple signs will be installed around Princess Anne Middle School and Landstown High School to notify drivers of the reduction in the speed limit during school zone hours.
In default mode these LED signs will display the standard speed limit. However, during designated school zone hours, the signs will switch to displaying lower speed limits as well as light up the word “SCHOOL” in amber. Since the schools are located next to high-speed thoroughfares, these signs are expected to reduce speeds and increase safety. Additionally the signs will be installed between school zones to remind the motoring public they are still near a school and need to be mindful of their speed.
These VSL Signs employ SWARCO’s Precision Optic technology. Instead of covering its LEDs with a glare-prone front screen, SWARCO uses a unique lensing system that provides several unique and valuable benefits. First, the optics increase the contrast ratio to facilitate higher definition messages. Second, the lenses amplify and focus all of the projected light in a targeted conical pattern best suited for driver visibility – no light is wasted by shining where it can’t be read. Finally, and perhaps most important, SWARCO’s technological advancements dramatically decrease VMS energy consumption to a fraction of a typical LED sign. This will save the city of Virginia Beach significant operating funds as well as reduce its carbon footprint. City officials are extremely excited about this new technology and plan to expand the program to additional school zones across the city.
The SWARCO Precision Optic solution is the next step in the evolution of the LED VMS sign. SWARCO TRAFFIC AMERICAS is proud to debut this Variable Speed Limit technology in Virginia Beach and help keep Virginia students safer.