Frequently Asked Questions

questionHow can I tell which direction the camera is pointed?

answerThis can be difficult, especially since operators are constantly moving the cameras to observe intersection signal operation, but we recommend using the reference images. These images are available by clicking on the "Which way is the camera pointing?" hyperlink above the real-time image. These reference images show the view from the camera when it is pointed in its most common directions.

questionWhat computer capabilities do I need to view the traffic camera pictures?

answerYou need a computer and monitor that displays 256 colors (more than 256 colors will result in an even better image). You also need an Internet connection with a world wide web browser that supports JPEG (joint pictures experts group) images.

If you are reading this message yet can't see the camera images, your browser does not support JPEG picture files. You will need to obtain a newer browser to successfully view the site.

The speed at which your Internet connection (modem or network) transmits and receives data will determine how long it takes to download the image files. Most of our image files are on average 16,000 bytes each in size. A 14.4 kilobit/second (kb/s) modem will download each image file in approximately 11 seconds. A 28.8 kb/s modem will download the file in half that time; slower modems will download the file at a proportionately slower rate.

questionHow often are the camera traffic pictures updated?

answerOur server downloads new camera images to the Internet approximately every minute. However, your browser controls the frequency at which the images are downloaded to your computer. Newer browsers with client-side pull capabilities will update your currently viewed image every 1-1/2 minutes. If your browser does not support the client-side pull function, you can manually update the image by pressing the "Reload" button on the browser menu.

The date and time that each image was created is shown in the bottom right corner of the snapshot.

questionWhy did the City install the video cameras?

answer The primary purpose of the cameras is to aid in optimizing the intersection traffic signals. City traffic engineers have access to the camera images, as well as the computers that operate the intersection signals. With this equipment, they can quickly and easily modify the signal timing and observe how changes affect traffic queues, progression, and driveway egress.