As GPS becomes ubiquitous traffic lights can be changed due to measured traffic flow. To make this a monied service user of the traffic lights can bid to improve their chances of a ‘green run’. The auctions can be held on a per intersection basis with winners never needing to decelerate due to red lights.
Users would be able to ‘fill’ their account and bid on intersection in real time or when planning a journey. This could also allow navigation programs to estimate cheapest routes.
An element of fairness can be added by governement sponsorship of fairness.
Revenues from these auctions would be used to pay for transport infrusturcture. It would also work as a disinsentive for driving and an incentive for car pooling.