How do poor Cities afford traffic lights?

Answer 1

If the traffic light is located on a major roadway that is a federal or state highway, then the DOT may provide the light. The town I live in is only responsible for the traffic lights on city streets. They would pay for these from the tax base that goes to the street department budget. Different towns may do it differently, that's just the way it's done here.

Answer 2

Having and maintaining them is a lot cheaper than hauling away all the wrecked cars that might otherwise result.

There is the possibility they may be removed, too many people are claiming the city has no right to tell them when to stop their cars.

Answer 3

Fines for running the red light will pay for the lights in a very short time.

Answer 4

taxes, federal grants and funding,