Engineering Better Traffic Solutions Starts Here
At Clark Dietz, traffic engineering isn’t just about signals and detours; it’s about creating safer, smarter, and more connected communities. Whether it’s a school crossing, a rural work zone, or a congested urban corridor, our traffic engineers combine real-world expertise with a people-first mindset to improve how everyone moves.
We lead full-scale transportation projects across the Midwest, and our clients benefit from the added value of a dedicated traffic engineering team. These specialists focus on traffic-specific assignments every day, contributing to signal timing, corridor modeling, safety studies, and more, as part of our multidisciplinary efforts. They stay sharp through continuous training, advanced software tools, and active participation in professional organizations like ITE, WTS, and ACEC. Our team includes Professional Traffic Operations Engineers (PTOEs), former state DOT engineers, and regional experts who understand the unique traffic challenges in Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Kentucky, and Wisconsin.
Miovision camera
Smart Data Collection for Smarter Design
Every traffic study begins with understanding how people currently move through a corridor. We use advanced tools like Miovision cameras to gather 24-hour turning movement counts and tube counters for 48-hour volume tracking. This reliable data forms the foundation for traffic impact studies, traffic impact assessments, signal warrant analysis, geometric evaluations (left turn, right turn, deceleration, and acceleration lanes), and corridor modeling, helping us identify issues, prioritize solutions, and design improvements that reflect real-world conditions.
Signal Design for the Way People Move
Silver Spring Drive Design project construction
Signalized intersections are among the most complex and visible elements of a traffic network. Our engineers have extensive experience in modern signal design, evaluating timing, phasing, pedestrian safety, ADA compliance, and vehicle movements in both urban and rural settings.
Our internal Communities of Practice (CoPs) and monthly coordination meetings allow traffic engineers across our five-state region to share techniques, review software like Synchro/SimTraffic, HCS, HSS, Rodel, SIDRA, or VISSIM, and provide scalable solutions for state and municipal clients.
A recent example: In Milwaukee, Wisconsin, (Silver Spring Drive from 27th Street to the Milwaukee River), we analyzed closely spaced signals and upgraded the signal hardware (detection, controller, etc.), infrastructure, and operation to better accommodate the City of Glendale’s safe streets initiative in reducing traffic speeds and improving overall corridor mobility during and after construction.
SR-75 project in Indiana
Work Zone Traffic Management: Keeping Progress Moving
Work zones require more than orange barrels; they require detailed planning that prioritizes access and safety. We develop Maintenance of Traffic (MOT) plans and Transportation Management Plans (TMPs) that minimize disruptions, keep people moving, prioritize motorist safety, and maintain accessibility.
For example, on SR 75 in Indianapolis, we replaced a 36-inch pipe with an open channel to manage Q100 storm events and coordinated traffic control staging, utility adjustments, and public safety needs throughout construction.
Signs, Lines & Safety: Small Elements, Big Impact
IL-176 at Nish and Wright
Pavement markings and signage may seem like finishing touches, but they’re fundamental to roadway safety. Our engineers apply MUTCD-compliant design strategies and state-specific guidelines to ensure every sign and stripe is visible, purposeful, and effective. We also perform Road Safety Audits (RSAs) to proactively identify risks and recommend improvements, whether it’s a rural curve or an urban corridor.
For example, in Nunda Township, Illinois, our team tackled a complex five-leg intersection on IL 176 at Nish and Wright Roads. After analyzing signalization and roundabout alternatives, we proposed a safer, more navigable four-leg signalized design. In addition to signage and striping, we addressed flooding concerns, ROW coordination, and integrated multi-modal access, all delivered with an eye toward environmental review and long-term community benefit.
Another example is from the Silver Spring project. The signing and pavement marking were key elements in creating a safer multimodal environment. Our team supported a traffic calming initiative designed to slow vehicles that historically traveled well above posted speeds. In particular, pavement marking enhancements included warning chevrons in advance of raised intersections, green pavement markings within bike lanes and at locations where the protected bike lane intersects/crosses with turn lanes, and markings directing bicyclists to yield to pedestrians.
Together, these measures not only encouraged drivers to reduce speeds but also provided clearer guidance for vehicles, bicyclists and pedestrians navigating the corridor. The result was a safer, more balanced roadway that met the City’s long-term safety and mobility goals.
Planning Through Design—And Everything In Between
Wildcat State Street Traffic Impact Study
Traffic engineering isn’t just about today’s traffic; it’s about being proactive for the future. We assist clients through every project phase, from concept planning and feasibility studies to funding applications and final PS&E packages. Our team is frequently engaged in performing Traffic Impact Studies (TIS), Traffic Impact Assessments (TIA), Access Management Reviews, Safety Studies, and Corridor Improvement Plans.
We also help secure critical grant funding through programs like Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) and Safety Action Plans. Our engineers support clients in developing compelling narratives, GIS-based visualizations, and data-informed recommendations that stand out in competitive applications. Whether it’s a small town looking to calm traffic or a regional corridor preparing for future growth, we know how to align engineering goals with funding realities.
Glendale Silver Spring Drive Design project
Quality That Holds Up in the Field
Each project at Clark Dietz is reviewed through a structured QA/QC process that includes peer reviews, constructability checks, and compliance audits. This ensures consistency, minimizes rework, and delivers plans that contractors and agencies can rely on.
We bring a unique advantage to clients: while many firms fold traffic into general transportation engineering, we maintain a team of specialists who focus exclusively on traffic operations, mobility, and safety. These engineers are experienced in traffic modeling software like Synchro, SimTraffic, VISSIM, and HCS, and are actively engaged in industry standards through ITE, WTS, and ACEC. This specialization allows us to tackle the most complex traffic challenges with creativity, accuracy, and a deep understanding of best practices.
“Our traffic engineering team brings the experience and adaptability needed to solve challenges as unique as the communities we serve. Whether we’re modeling traffic patterns for horse-drawn carriages or coordinating phasing for a complex design-build corridor, we apply specialized tools and proven processes to develop tailored solutions. By collaborating across states and disciplines, we ensure our clients receive thoughtful, data-driven designs that work in the real world.”
—Leigh Burgess, PE, PTOE
Area Manager & Senior Traffic Engineer, Clark Dietz
Let’s Partner on Safer, Smarter Roadways
Whether you’re looking to improve intersection operations, plan for future growth, or reduce crash potential, Clark Dietz has the specialized traffic engineering experience to get you there. We serve public and private clients across the Midwest and are ready to tailor our services to your unique challenges.
Let’s connect. Our traffic engineers—Leigh Burgess, PE, PTOE, Sean Widener, PE, PTOE, Brandon Hasso, PE, Ron Pretty, PE, PTOE, Michelle Shumaker, PE, and Thuyen Dang—are ready to support your next project.
Want to Explore More?
Looking for real-world examples of how our traffic engineering team tackles unique challenges across the Midwest? Check out these featured projects and blogs:
