Eatonville's traffic lights not at risk of IT glitch impact

As the world grapples with the fallout from a recent global IT glitch that disrupted flights and business operations, people are concerned about similar issues affecting other critical infrastructure, such as traffic lights. With many still feeling the ripple effects of the July 19 incident, local residents in Eatonville may wonder if their traffic systems are at risk.

On July 19, a global information technology (IT) glitch caused significant delays in flights and business operations. The issue arose from a conflict between antivirus software and Microsoft's systems, leading to widespread disruptions, primarily affecting the commercial airline industry.

In the aftermath of the large travel glitch, some concerns emerged about whether similar glitches could impact public safety infrastructure, such as traffic lights.

Transportation officials have confirmed that Eatonville's traffic lights are not susceptible to these types of issues. Eatonville has one traffic light located at Washington Avenue and State Route 161 (SR 161). According to the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), these traffic signals are protected from potential hacking or glitches.

"The traffic lights in Eatonville are hardwired and are not accessible from the internet," said Cara Mitchell, WSDOT communications manager for the Olympic Region.

Unlike the systems affected by the IT glitch, Eatonville's stoplights do not utilize artificial intelligence. Mitchell noted that the WSDOT does not use AI in their signal cabinets or controllers, whether statewide or in Eatonville.

The local stoplights are programmed by the WSDOT's operations team.
“The signal operations team creates the traffic signal program in our regional signal shop,” Mitchell explained. “We use the construction plans as the starting point to build the program.”

Thanks to the WSDOT's preventive measures, Eatonville residents need not worry about glitches affecting their traffic lights. However, if a signal malfunctions during a power outage or other events, drivers should treat the intersection as a four-way stop and, if necessary, contact the WSDOT Traffic Management Center at 206-440-4490 for signals on state highways.

While global IT disruptions can create significant challenges, Eatonville's traffic light system is safeguarded against issues like hacking or glitches. The community can be reassured that their traffic signals are resilient and well-managed, ensuring continued safety and reliability on local roads.