Managing Wilmington’s Traffic Signals
For Michael Oswald, no two days are exactly alike. Based at the City’s Traffic Management Center, Michael serves as the City’s Signal Systems Manager, overseeing the operation and coordination of Wilmington’s traffic signal system, including 252 traffic signals across Wilmington and surrounding areas.His work includes coordinating with NCDOT, overseeing signal contractors and technicians, reviewing upgrades, monitoring traffic signal performance, and helping ensure systems are operating safely and efficiently. Although Michael does not personally perform maintenance on traffic signals, he works closely with the City’s signal technician team, operations analysts, and partner agencies to keep traffic moving throughout the region. “This role requires leaning on a lot of people,” Michael explained. “It’s a very large team effort.” In total, a team of 12 employees helps manage the City’s growing signal system.
Supporting Traffic Flow Beyond City Limits
One thing many people may not realize is that the City’s signal team maintains and operates traffic signals beyond Wilmington city limits. The team manages signals along major travel corridors extending toward Porters Neck and Monkey Junction to help maintain traffic flow into and out of Wilmington. Michael says this regional approach helps improve reliability for commuters and visitors traveling throughout the area.
Using Data to Improve Traffic Operations
Since joining the City from the private sector, Michael has focused on using data to better understand traffic patterns and improve operations. Michael and his team are evaluating data sources and emerging technologies to identify trends, evaluate congestion, and determine where timing adjustments or operational improvements are needed. “There’s so much information available now,” he said. “The data perspective allows us to look at the system in a more proactive way.” Michael regularly coordinates with NCDOT, signal contractors, and Design and Construction staff to help ensure traffic signal systems are operating effectively and safely during roadway projects and infrastructure upgrades.
Helping Residents Navigate Traffic Challenges
Michael says one of the biggest benefits of the team’s work is helping provide reliable travel times throughout Wilmington’s increasingly congested roadway network. The team continuously reviews traffic operations and uses public feedback to help identify areas that may need further evaluation. Community members can submit concerns or observations through the City’s Traffic Signal Timing Change Request Form, which allows staff to review timing concerns or investigate potential technical issues. Michael says the requests are especially valuable as they allow staff to be made aware of timing and equipment concerns sooner as staff cannot personally travel through every intersection daily. He also noted that traffic signals operate on timed cycles, meaning signals may not immediately change when vehicles arrive at an intersection. In many cases, traffic volumes across all approaches must be carefully balanced to keep intersections operating as efficiently and safely as possible.
Safety in the Field
Michael also emphasized the importance of safety for signal crews working throughout the community. Signal technicians regularly work in active traffic conditions, often from bucket trucks while maintaining equipment or inspecting upgrades. He encourages drivers to remain patient and cautious around crews working near intersections. “Our guys are out there every day working in traffic,” he said. “They live and work here too, so keeping them safe is important.”
Life Outside of Work
Michael recently relocated to Wilmington from Columbia, South Carolina. Before moving, he enjoyed sporting clays and clay shooting and is now exploring new hobbies and outdoor activities in the Wilmington area, including fishing and exploring Wilmington beaches with his family.
Advice for Future City Employees
For anyone considering a career with the City, Michael says working in public service provides a unique sense of ownership and connection to the community and encourages everyone to experience that. Coming from the private sector, he appreciates being able to directly see the impact of his work on the place where he now lives and works.