Cyclists in ICLEI Member Rotterdam (The Netherlands) crossing the Churchillplein junction will have a faster commute thanks to the installation of a thermal sensor that turns traffic lights green for cyclists. The sensor works on the basis of body heat: the greater the number of cyclists present at the red light, the quicker the green is given.

The innovative technology was made operational by Pex Langenberg, Vice Mayor for Port, Sustainability, Mobility and Governance of the City of Rotterdam and Member of ICLEI Europe’s Regional Executive Committee. Mr Langenberg turned on the sensor in front of waiting cyclists and members of the media.

Public reaction has already been positive, with cyclists praising the thermal sensor for lowering waiting times. Previously cyclists had to wait for upwards of two minutes at the busy junction. According to the municipality, the heat sensor is the first of its kind in The Netherlands.

For more information, visit adl.nl [in Dutch].