Faster Transit, Signal Priority Enhances Rider Reliability and Traffic Flow Using cost-effective Technology
SALEM, OR - February 4, 2026 — Today, Cherriots, in partnership with LYT, a leader in cloud-based, connected vehicle solutions, announced the official launch of Transit Signal Priority (TSP) technology at 22 intersections along the Lancaster Drive corridor. This project specifically targets Route 11, the busiest and longest route in the Cherriots system. LYT TSP will help solve persistent on-time performance challenges and improve the daily experience for thousands of riders.
The implementation of TSP technology is a customer-centric solution designed to make public transit a more viable choice alongside personal vehicle travel. Initial data from the project reveals a significant impact on service quality; the system has reduced the magnitude of late vehicles by as much as 20% for both the north and southbound directions. By allowing buses to communicate with traffic signals to extend green lights, when appropriate, the TSP system reduces overall trip time and ensures riders reach their destinations more reliably. Furthermore, LYT’s TSP implementation is expected to improve overall traffic operations and efficiency throughout the corridor.
“This project reflects the kind of thoughtful and innovative investments we hope to bring into the community,” said Maria Hinojos Pressey, President of the Cherriots Board of Directors. “It builds on work already underway and moves us closer to an expansive and robust transit system the capital of Oregon deserves.”
Recent survey data from Cherriots Transit Operators who drive Route 11 confirm the system’s effectiveness:
“The launch of Transit Signal Priority in Salem marks an important milestone in how we deliver faster, more reliable transit for our riders,” said Shofi Ull Azum, Chief Planning and Development Officer at Cherriots. “Early results are very encouraging. By leveraging LYT’s cloud-based technology, we are using real-time data to improve operations, reduce delays, and enhance the customer experience. This project serves as a blueprint for how we intend to grow our system: by being data-driven, operationally efficient, and focused on high-return investments that deliver measurable benefits to our community."
This initiative represents a practical partnership in transit technology, utilizing a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) cloud-based model. Unlike traditional transit priority systems that require expensive, specialized hardware on every bus and at every intersection, this cloud-based approach avoids heavy infrastructure costs. By choosing a cost-effective cloud solution, Cherriots is demonstrating a smart, responsible use of taxpayer money to improve service efficiency without the burden of massive capital projects.
This project highlights a successful public-private partnership, combining the operational expertise of Cherriots, with LYT’s innovative technology to solve complex urban mobility challenges.
"This project is a testament to what can be achieved through a strong public-private partnership," said Timothy Menard, CEO and Founder of LYT. "Working with forward-thinking partners like Cherriots and the City of Salem is vital to our mission. By embracing the flexibly of this dynamic tech, we are not just moving buses faster; we are providing a better transit experience and improving the quality of life for residents and businesses. We are making the entire urban mobility model more progressive and efficient."
Beyond the road, this efficiency serves as a vital economic driver. A more reliable Route 11 makes transit a viable travel option for workers and shoppers, supporting local business accessibility and ensuring the community remains connected and productive.
Cherriots will continue monitoring performance data to ensure the system delivers consistent, measurable improvements over time.
About Cherriots
Established in 1979, Salem Area Mass Transit District (SAMTD) is a special district covering 78 square miles in the Mid-Willamette Valley between Portland and Eugene. Locally known as Cherriots, the district provides vital service to more than 450,000 residents in Marion and Polk counties. SAMTD maintains a total of 124 transit vehicles across its various services and provides approximately 3.3 million passenger trips annually.
About LYT
LYT is the leading provider of smart cities NextGen intelligent connected traffic technologies that orchestrate today’s Intelligent Transportation Systems. LYT’s AI-powered, open architecture, machine learning technology enables a suite of transit signal priority and emergency vehicle preemption solutions that utilize pre-existing vehicle tracking sensors and city communication networks to dynamically adjust the phase and timing of traffic signals in real-time to provide sufficient green clearance time while minimally impacting cross traffic. LYT is headquartered in Silicon Valley and serves municipalities across the US and Canada. Learn more at LYT.ai.
