New app aims to keep drivers, cyclists and pedestrians safe on Cary roads

A new app helps Cary drivers stay aware of school zones, pedestrians, cyclists and more.

Posted 4:33 p.m. Sep 7, 2022 — Updated 10:28 a.m. Sep 8, 2022

Brian Shrader

, WRAL anchor/reporter

CARY, N.C. — A new era is coming to Cary with smart roads that can keep drivers, cyclists and pedestrians safer.

Over the past year, smart signal equipment has been installed at hundreds of signals and crosswalks in Cary. The idea is to connect the data with an app that gives people a heads up on everything from how much longer until the light turns green to cyclists, pedestrians and oncoming emergency vehicles.

"Our goal is safety," said David Spencer, a spokesperson for Cary.

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People will get an audible alerts so they don't have to take their eyes off the road. Still, town leaders said they are concerned about adding another distraction and will study it as the pilot program continues.

Town officials say the TravelSafely app is available now for everyone. It's free and automatically knows when a driver is approaching a smart signal. Pedestrians and cyclists need to be running the app in order to be detected and alert drivers.

"We're trying to encourage [everyone] ... it's beneficial to everybody," said Spencer.