🚗Your weekly traffic update: Black inventors who brightened history

HOUSTON – Happy Black History Month!

We’ve made it to February, which means it is officially Black History Month! To shed light on the history, I am going to take the time to highlight two African American inventors.

➡️Not subscribed? Click here to sign up!

Garrett A. Morgan & The 3-way traffic light

Did you know an African American man by the name of Garrett A. Morgan invented the three-way traffic signal back in 1923? In addition to being an inventor, he was also a community leader and businessman.

Morgan became wealthy enough to own a car and started a newspaper called the Cleveland Call. Back then, stop-and-go signs were utilized at intersections.

However, after witnessing a major accident, Morgan decided to make a change and invited the three-way traffic signal to alert drivers. From there he not only changed lanes but also history!

Electrical Pioneer Lewis Howard Latimer

Lewis Latimer is known for contributing to the invention of the lightbulb and the telephone. In 1880 he worked as a mechanical draftsman. His skills led him to work with Thomas Edison in 1884.

Another special note about Latimer is his name! If you haven’t noticed, we share the same last name. While I am not 100% sure we are related, there is a great chance. My grandfather and Latimer both share similar facial features. On top of that, he has roots in the Northeast. Can you believe my family is also in that area?

Sounds like I’ll have to do some digging!

Have a great weekend.

Justina Latimer, KPRC 2 Traffic Expert

Have a traffic question? I can help.

What do you want to know about Houston traffic? We will be answering your questions on-air. You can email them to JLatimer@KPRC.com or ask here!

Airports

• Major improvements are underway at Bush Airport. The construction of a new international terminal may impact traffic. Reserve parking & plan ahead!

Recent headlines

• Ask 2: How to handle off-road vehicles in Houston
• Woman killed in wrong-way crash on Eastex Freeway after police pursuit of stolen vehicle
• 2 found shot to death in car in Spring

Weekend construction

• Heads up! There will be a total closure on the eastbound connector ramp to the IH-610 West Loop/US 290 Direct Connect on IH-10.

Houston’s big projects

• The Gulf Freeway Expansion
• The Grand Parkway
• The West Loop-Southwest Freeway Interchange Rebuild

Get your traffic news, maps and route planner 24/7 at Click2Houston.com/traffic.