Office of Transportation Services

Traffic Signals

Traffic Control Signals (Traffic Signals) are installed to provide an orderly movement of traffic, increase capacity of intersection, reduce frequency and severity of certain types of accidents, especially right-angle collisions, coordinate the continuous traffic flow at a defined speed and to interrupt heavy traffic flow to allow other traffic (vehicle or pedestrian) to cross.

An intersection must meet the minimum threshold of specific criteria (known as "warrants") before traffic control is justified. These requirements are based on traffic conditions, pedestrian characteristics and physical characteristics for the roadway and intersection. Citizen groups or homeowners associations can contact the Office of Transportation Services to have a particular intersection studied. The design and installation process for a traffic signal takes from 18 to 24 months assuming funding is available. Funding of signals comes from several sources, including Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) Primary and Secondary Road funds, the County's Gas Tax funds, developers' proffers or general county tax revenue.

Traffic signals in Loudoun County (outside the Town of Leesburg) are connected to VDOT's Smart Traffic Signal System for monitoring and periodic adjustments to satisfy current traffic demands. Operational problems concerning a traffic signal outside the town of Leesburg should be called into VDOT at 703-383-VDOT (703-383-8368) or for those in Leesburg to their Public Works Department at 703-777-2420. Be prepared to provide the street names at the intersection and the problem.

If you would like to know if a particular intersection is being considered for a traffic signal or the status of a traffic signal being installed, please e-mail this office at ots@loudoun.gov.

Related Links

Virginia Department of Transportation