Hasselt Utilizes AI to Improve Traffic Safety on Kempische Steenweg

Hasselt (Eurotoday) – Hasselt is using AI to improve traffic at Kempische Steenweg, with results expected by June 2025. Issues with Slachthuiskaai traffic lights are causing congestion. Alderman Kevin Schouterden is overseeing the project.

The city of Hasselt is leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze existing data on the Kempische Steenweg intersection with Vildersstraat and Havenstraat. Officials stated that this initiative aims to enhance traffic safety by utilizing all available government data, including records from the city administration and police.

Alderman for Mobility, Kevin Schouterden (Vooruit), explained that the AI module will process this data to identify risks and propose improvements. By analyzing traffic volumes, crash reports, and other factors, the AI platform will help determine whether modifications to the intersection are necessary. The city hopes this data-driven approach will lead to better-informed decisions regarding road safety and urban planning.

How is Hasselt using AI to improve traffic safety?

Officials selected this intersection because it has a high number of accidents and serves as an important route leading to Elfde Liniestraat, where construction is taking place. The city wants to ensure the intersection remains safe and efficient for all road users.

AI is being used to analyze data and suggest necessary changes, which could include adjustments to traffic lights, road markings, or the overall layout. The goal is to make roads safer and more accessible for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers alike.

The data that is brought together in the module is a combination of all available data at the government, such as the city and the police,

explains Kevin Schouterden (Vooruit).

Hasselt will begin implementing AI in March 2025, with results expected by June 2025. The city is not alone in this effort—Rome is also testing a similar initiative as part of the European program blank”>EIT Urban Mobility. Officials noted that more European cities are adopting AI and technology to address traffic issues.

Meanwhile, issues persist with the traffic lights at two intersections on Slachthuiskaai in Hasselt. The cameras designed to detect cyclists and adjust the lights accordingly are malfunctioning, detecting cyclists too early and turning the lights green before cars are ready. This has led to severe congestion, even affecting the center of Kuringen. New cameras have been ordered to resolve the issue.

For now, the traffic lights are flashing orange, and officials are urging drivers to proceed with caution. Another issue arose with cameras failing to detect cyclists in bad weather, but that problem is also being addressed. Additionally, new smart traffic lights were installed at the fire station to turn all signals red when fire trucks leave. However, firefighters still have to control them manually to ensure a clear path for emergency vehicles.