Enhancing Transit Signal Priority Implementation Through a Multi-Perspective Analysis

Transit Signal Priority (TSP) enhances transit reliability by minimizing delays at signalized intersections, but its broader implementation is often hindered by organizational and procedural challenges. Although many studies have examined the technical performance of TSP systems, fewer have explored the organizational, regulatory, and procedural factors that affect their successful implementation. This study investigates TSP business procedures across multiple U.S. states by conducting structured interviews with key stakeholders and performing a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis. The study identified recurring barriers, including unclear leadership, staffing shortages, inconsistent permitting processes, incompatible equipment, and outdated infrastructure. In contrast, successful programs relied on regular interagency coordination, assigned TSP staff, centralized management, and simplified funding processes. We propose strategies such as assigning a lead agency, streamlining permitting through blanket procedures, shifting to cloud-based control systems, and linking grant funding to performance data.