Las Vegas Implements AI-Powered Smart Signals to Boost Pedestrian Safety

New automated traffic lights on Fremont Street aim to reduce accidents and improve crossing times.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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The city of Las Vegas is installing 16 AI-powered smart traffic signals on Fremont Street, a major tourist destination, to enhance pedestrian safety. The automated system will sense waiting individuals and adjust crossing times accordingly, eliminating the need for button-activated signals. Funded by a federal grant, the pilot project is part of Las Vegas' Vision Zero program to eliminate traffic-related deaths and serious injuries.

Why it matters

Fremont Street, which draws around 26 million visitors annually, has become a major concern for pedestrian safety, with several recent accidents and fatalities. The new smart signals aim to address these issues by creating a more responsive and adaptive traffic system that prioritizes the safety of both tourists and local residents.

The details

The $1.4 million project, funded by a grant obtained by U.S. Rep. Dina Titus, D-Nevada, will install 16 AI-powered smart traffic signals along Fremont Street. These signals will use sensors to automatically detect waiting pedestrians and adjust the traffic flow and crossing times accordingly, eliminating the need for button-activated signals. Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Berkley stated that if the pilot program is successful, the city plans to roll out the smart signal technology citywide.

  • The installation and testing of the new smart signals will take place later in 2026.
  • Fremont Street has been a major tourist attraction since it opened as the city's first paved road in 1905.

The players

Dina Titus

A U.S. Representative from Nevada who obtained the $1.4 million grant to fund the smart signal project.

Shelley Berkley

The Mayor of Las Vegas, who announced the city's plans to roll out the smart signal technology citywide if the pilot program is successful.

Vision Zero Program

A city initiative aimed at reducing traffic-related deaths and serious injuries, which the smart signal project is a part of.

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What they’re saying

“If the program is successful, it could be rolled out citywide.”

— Shelley Berkley, Mayor of Las Vegas (x1075lasvegas.com)

What’s next

The installation and testing of the new smart signals will take place later in 2026, and if the pilot program is successful, the city plans to expand the technology to other areas of Las Vegas.

The takeaway

The implementation of AI-powered smart traffic signals on Fremont Street represents Las Vegas' commitment to improving pedestrian safety and embracing innovative technology to address the unique challenges of a high-traffic tourist destination. This pilot project could serve as a model for other cities looking to enhance safety and accessibility for both residents and visitors.