Enhancing Urban Accessibility: Comparative Analysis of Intelligent Traffic Signal Systems in Major Global Cities

As urbanization intensifies, cities worldwide are facing more complex traffic management challenges. The advent of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) and Internet of Things (IoT) technology offers unparalleled opportunities to improve urban traffic light systems' effectiveness and availability. This paper compares smart traffic signal reforms in Tokyo, Copenhagen, Stockholm, San Francisco, and Hamburg, analyzing their effects on urban accessibility. The study examines three primary perspectives. First, it assesses the influence of intelligent traffic systems on the accessibility of special groups, such as disabled and socially disadvantaged populations, by making precise and responsive adjustments to traffic signals. Second, it investigates enhancements in smart signal control within multi-modal transportation systems, focusing on how algorithms and real-time data processing improve coordination and efficiency. Lastly, it evaluates the overall effectiveness of real-time traffic management implementation.