Turning Data into Detours: Managing Traffic with StreetLight Construction

With major construction underway on the I-285/SR 400 interchange in metro Atlanta, the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) needed a better way to manage lane closures without worsening traffic on one of the most congested corridors in the country.

To solve this, Jacobs deployed StreetLight Construction—part of StreetLight by Jacobs—a powerful mobility analytics platform that turns real-world location data into actionable traffic insights. Purpose-built for roadway projects, StreetLight Construction uses de-identified data from smartphones and connected vehicles to monitor traffic conditions before, during and after construction. This enables transportation agencies to evaluate lane closures, detours and traffic control strategies in near real time.

Jacobs used the platform to deliver up-to-date traffic volume and speed data across the entire construction zone, including newly built road segments. The results helped GDOT make informed, timely decisions.

Key benefits included:

• Real-time volume and speed data for every major road segment
• Analysis by time of day and day type to guide closure schedules
• Identification of high-volume areas, including I-285/SR 400 connectors
• Interactive dashboards with no need for manual data processing
• Before-and-after speed comparisons to evaluate traffic control strategies

Using these insights, Jacobs advised GDOT on the best times for lane closures, enabling approvals that minimized disruption. The real-time data also allowed for daytime closures in low-traffic areas, saving time and reducing costs.

“StreetLight’s real-time data kept traffic moving and construction progressing—without the typical gridlock or frustration,” says Derrick Vincent, P.E. VP Client Account Manager - GA Transportation. “It allowed GDOT to react quickly and confidently to changing traffic conditions, minimizing disruption for commuters.”

GDOT reported smoother traffic flow, fewer public complaints and better traffic visibility. Jacobs continues to support GDOT by using StreetLight data to inform future improvements on the interstate.