What's the deal with traffic signals in Chicago?

Factual Questions
1

My apologies if this seems like more of a complaint than a question:

As a city dweller that works in the burbs, I feel like there is a distinct line I cross twice a day: on one side of that line is a well-planned, logically laid out system featuring sensors that trigger left-turn arrows and synchronized signals that maximize traffic flow. On the other side of this line is a system that seems more random than anything else: lights are rarely synchronized, and some even seem like they are designed to stop drivers at every consecutive signal; traffic is held up while a green arrow lights without any cars lined up to turn; red light cameras quick to snap an incriminating photo while a driver is forced to race through a quick yellow light or slam on the brakes.

Who, if anyone, is responsible for streamlining traffic flow in Chicago? I know the burbs have more money, have fewer intersections and have newer infrastructure, but why can’t the city catch up to them if they have to re-pave the streets every few years anyway? Any my #1 question, why are Chicago yellow lights significantly shorter than suburban yellows?

-Dave
Chicago

2

I second this, especially the short yellow lights, and especially short yellows at the six-point intersections. I can be already in the intersection when the light turns yellow, and not yet through the intersection by the time it turns red. Where’s the logic in that?

3

Chicago’s traffic engineering tradition is one of relatively narrow streets, mechanical timers, short cycles and low traffic speeds. Suburban arterials—particularly those maintained by Cook County—are generally wider with higher speeds and were overseen in the late 20th century by an engineer who was fairly keen on signal coördination. As a result, CDOT has traditionally thought of things differently from CCHD—but Chicago now had a lot of computerized signals, including the entire central area.