New York City will soon begin testing a high-tech system aimed at reducing congestion in Midtown Manhattan.

The new system will use a series of cameras, EZ Pass readers, and microwave sensors to identify unusual congestion patterns at busy intersections.

Engineers will then be able to adjust traffic signals at the touch of a button to decrease congestion and keep traffic moving.

Mayor Bloomberg praised the capabilities of the system dubbed “Midtown in Motion,” but warned that it will not be a cure-all for one of the nation’s busiest grids.

If the system is proven successful in the test area, it could be expanded city-wide by 2013.   

Source: CBS New York