SPaT (Signal Phase and Timing) Challenge is a pilot program calling for all 50 states to install technology capable of broadcasting information to connected vehicles along at least one road corridor at a minimum of 20 signalized intersections by 2020. Georgia is taking a particularly aggressive approach to the SPaT Challenge with plans to install dedicated short-range radio transmitters at 50 intersections along two corridors, Ponce de Leon Avenue in Atlanta and Peachtree Road from northern Buckhead through Brookhaven into Chamblee.

The SPat Challenge project costs less than $1 million. However, the DOT is spending $18 million — including state and federal funds — to upgrade all 9,500 traffic signals in Georgia with smart signal software. Since starting the project almost two years ago, the agency has converted about 4,300 intersections.