Can Google’s AI stoplights help solve the worst traffic problem in the country?

Boston, Massachusetts, has been ranked as the worst city for traffic in the United States, according to a 2024 report from INRIX. The data found that Bostonians spend an average of 164 hours each year sitting in traffic, more than any other city in the country, with this congestion costing drivers over $2,000 annually.

One of the primary reasons for Boston’s traffic woes is its age. Founded in 1630, many of the city’s roadways were built long before the invention of automobiles.

In an effort to help alleviate these traffic problems, Google is introducing AI-powered stoplights in Boston. The initiative, dubbed “Project Greenlight,” aims to optimize the flow of vehicles through the city by using data from Google Maps to model traffic patterns and provide intelligent recommendations for stoplight timing.

“One of the most frustrating parts of living in a major city is traffic, so Boston is taking every step to combat congestion and get people to where they need to go,” Boston Mayor Michelle Wu said in a statement. “This innovative work with the latest technology from Google’s Project Green Light will help relieve the frustrating congestion that so many of our residents face, while helping to reduce emissions and inefficiencies on our city streets.”

Early results from the project have been promising. Some locations where these smart lights have been installed are reporting a 50% reduction in stop-and-go traffic.

The technology is currently being tested in Boston and several other cities as part of a pilot program, with the potential for expansion to other locations around the world in the future.

“Green Light reflects Google Research’s commitment to use AI to address climate change and improve millions of lives in cities around the world,” Google said in a statement. “By optimizing each intersection, and coordinating between adjacent intersections, we can create waves of green lights and help cities further reduce stop-and-go traffic.”