Traffic signals at 62 locations in Boston's Back Bay are in the process of being retimed as part of a Boston Transportation Department program designed to ensure that equipment settings at the city's 841 signalized intersections meet the existing demand from all users of local streets. The Back Bay phase of the program began in September and is expected to be completed by next spring.

Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh said, "Taking proactive steps to upgrade traffic signal timing so that it meets the current travel needs of pedestrians, cyclists and drivers, is a smart and resourceful operational plan. Updating the coordination of our traffic signals will improve safety, reduce congestion and help us to meet our environmental goals."

"The objective of signal timing is to respond to the demands of motor vehicles, pedestrians and bicycles in an optimal manner," said Interim Boston Transportation Department Commissioner James E. Gillooly. "This includes establishing a balanced scheduled that provides a sufficient amount of time for all users to travel through intersections and on streets safely and efficiently."