How Avenue Consultants is using data and analytics to transform traffic operations
In this episode of the Wavetronix Pulse Podcast, hosts Todd Hansen and Kaden Baird sit down with Shawn Larson and Derek Lowe of Avenue Consultants to explore how traffic consulting is evolving in a more data-driven world.
With experience spanning signal operations, system optimization, and traffic analytics, Larsen and Lowe bring a shared perspective: modern traffic management is no longer just about setting signal timing—it’s about continuously measuring and improving performance.
A Shift Toward Continuous Performance Management
Early in the conversation, Todd and Kaden highlight how expectations for agencies and consultants have changed. Instead of relying on periodic timing updates, agencies now need ongoing visibility into how their systems are performing.
Shawn Larsen speaks directly to this shift from an operational standpoint. Drawing on his experience managing and optimizing signal systems, he emphasizes that maintaining performance over time is just as important as initial setup.
At Avenue Consultants, that mindset translates into helping agencies move from:
- Occasional signal re-timing
- Reactive troubleshooting
to a model built on continuous monitoring and refinement.
Making Data Actionable with ATSPM
A central theme in the discussion is the role of Automated Traffic Signal Performance Measures (ATSPM).
Derek Lowe explains how these tools provide a clearer picture of intersection performance—turning raw data into visual, actionable insights. With ATSPM, agencies can:
- Identify underutilized green time
- Detect recurring congestion patterns
- Diagnose issues without relying solely on field visits
Kaden highlights how this level of visibility changes the conversation—from assumptions to data-backed decisions.
Where Data Meets Real-World Operations
While Derek focuses on the analytics side, Shawn reinforces the importance of applying those insights in the real world.
He notes that data is most valuable when it leads to practical improvements—adjustments that agencies can implement, maintain, and sustain over time. His field experience brings context to the data, helping ensure that solutions are not only effective, but also realistic.
Todd points out that this combination—analytics plus operational expertise—is what enables consultants to move beyond surface-level fixes and address root causes.
Scaling Smarter Traffic Operations
Another key insight from the episode is scalability.
With tools like ATSPM and reliable detection data, agencies can expand their focus from individual intersections to entire corridors or networks.
Shawn highlights how this allows teams to prioritize efforts more effectively—focusing on the locations that will have the greatest impact—while Derek emphasizes how analytics makes that prioritization possible.
Together, this approach enables:
- More consistent traffic flow
- Faster identification of issues
- Continuous, system-wide improvement
Connecting Data to Better Outcomes
Throughout the conversation, Todd and Kaden reinforce a clear takeaway: better data leads to better decisions—but only when paired with the right expertise.
Detection and performance metrics provide the foundation, but it’s the work of consultants—like those at Avenue Consultants—that turns that data into measurable improvements in safety and efficiency.
At Wavetronix, that same principle applies: delivering reliable, actionable data that supports smarter traffic operations.
Moving Forward
As traffic systems become more connected and data-driven, the role of the consultant will continue to expand.
But as Shawn and Derek make clear, success still depends on a balance—leveraging advanced analytics while staying grounded in real-world operations.
Because in the end, improving traffic systems isn’t just about seeing the data—it’s about knowing what to do with it.
