TravelSafely app needs input

Marietta may become a safer place for drivers, pedestrians, cyclists and first responders with a new, free phone app.

The city has entered the testing phase for the “Smart City” Marietta TravelSafely app that is available now on Apple and Android devices.

City officials and the app developers are requesting people to test this app by visiting the website at TravelSafelyApp.com to request a Beta invite for Marietta.

Those who have an android must enter their Gmail address.

The Marietta TravelSafely app is designed to save lives by reducing first-responder response time, making drivers, cyclists and pedestrians more visible to each other and improving traffic flow.

Marietta TravelSafely connects first responders, school beacons, driver feedback signs and anonymous smartphones, using the app in a connected network.

As the first fully connected U.S. city, Marietta spokeswoman Lindsey Wiles said first responders in Marietta automatically will be given green lights at pre-cleared intersections to provide a safer route and shorten response time.

Also, app users, along the route ofthe first-responder vehicle, will be warned of its approach and its direction of travel.

Using the app, drivers will be notified they are in a school zone, when the beacons are active and be given a warning if they exceed the school zone speed limit by 10 MPH.

Vehicles approaching intersections will communicate with traffic signals so drivers can adapt to traffic flow.

Another feature of the app notifies drivers of cyclists and pedestrians ahead who will be warned if a vehicle is approaching at an unsafe speed.

Information: MariettaGa.gov, youtu.be/hV-0ax-mgg8.