Vehicles communicating with traffic signals. “Pedestrian detection systems” that can extend a walk signal to allow more time to cross. It’s some of the technology Denver hopes will help loosen traffic congestion and make roads a bit safer.

Last week, Denver7 characterized the $12 million package approved by the Denver City Council as “Google Maps on steroids.”

The pilot program, aimed at using technology to better move Denverites around the city, will, among other initiatives, equip freight trucks routinely traveling through the city with technology “that talks to the traffic signals” and allows them to move efficiently through the city, according to Denver7.

The program also calls for implementing technology in 1,500 city fleet vehicles to establish vehicle-to-infrastructure communications and prepare the city for more connected vehicles in the future. A new pedestrian system will result in a  “more dynamic, real time transportation system” which is more intuitive.

As Denver Public Works spokeswoman Nancy Kuhn told Denver7, the program will help make the best use of the roads.

The whole idea is to connect cars with city infrastructure to gather data and then share that information with the public to make commutes easier, safer, more efficient.

“The goal is to be able to share that back with the public, so they have a better idea of what they’re encountering on the road. Maybe they can choose a different route,” Kuhn said. “We want to be prepared for what we expect to be probably an influx of more and more connected vehicles.”

The project is funded with $6 million in federal grants, with Denver matching.