Bus Priority Traffic Signals ('B' signals)

‘B’ signals are a special type of traffic signal which apply only to buses.

They are are generally attached to normal traffic signals and appear as a red or white ‘B’ on a black background.

‘B’ signals give buses priority by allowing them to pass traffic that is queued at the intersection or make special bus-only turns.

Before the normal traffic signals change to green, the ‘B’ signal changes from red to white and only buses are legally allowed to proceed. When the normal signals turn green the other vehicles can then move off.

Public transport information and priority system

The RTA has successfully trialed this system which can alter the sequencing and timing of traffic signals to give priority to buses.

The system uses technology such as global positioning satellites and roadside antennae to deliver information about the bus and its location. This information is used to forecast the arrival time of the bus at traffic signals ahead.

Then, the system alters traffic signal timing to:

• Allow the bus to maintain its scheduled timetable.
• Give bus passengers a more reliable service.
• Allow bus operators to schedule their buses more efficiently.

The same technology can be used to forecast arrival times at bus stops, with the potential to provide passengers with real-time information about the arrive of their bus.

The concept has been trialed on Sydney's Northern Beaches and will be refined for more widespread use.