California puts AI in charge of nine traffic lights to try and save $200M in costs

California is officially letting AI take over traffic lights and the state is hoping it could end up saving a huge $200 million in the process.

Drivers traveling along a busy stretch of Highway 68 in Monterey County are now being guided by nine AI-controlled traffic signals that can change in real time depending on traffic conditions.

Officials believe the technology could dramatically improve congestion without needing expensive new road infrastructure.

The futuristic system has only just gone live, but it’s already being treated as a major test for how artificial intelligence could reshape everyday commuting.

How California and its AI traffic lights are trying to reduce congestion

The new tech setup is part of a five-year pilot program along a nine-mile section of Highway 68 between San Benancio Road and Josselyn Canyon Road.

Instead of using fixed traffic light timers, the AI-powered system monitors traffic using cameras and sensors before robotically adjusting green lights to keep vehicles moving more smoothly.

Officials say the artificial intelligence can even detect groups of approaching vehicles and coordinate nearby intersections to reduce unnecessary stopping.

The technology was introduced because the area suffers from serious congestion, especially during busy tourist periods and major events near Monterey.

Before the pilot was approved, transportation officials had been considering building multiple roundabouts throughout the corridor.

But those proposals had a staggering estimated cost of more than $200 million and faced heavy opposition from residents.

The new system could save $200 million

The traffic project reportedly costs only around $1.2 million, making it dramatically cheaper than rebuilding the intersections with roundabouts.

One local official even said spending around a million dollars to test AI was worth it if it could avoid hundreds of millions in construction costs later on.

Drivers in the area also seem surprisingly open to the experiment, with several locals telling reporters they were happy to give the new futuristic system a chance if it helps reduce traffic jams.

California officials will now spend years monitoring how well the AI performs before deciding whether the technology could replace larger road expansion projects permanently.