I'm seeing this trend at many intersections in the Boston area. Pedestrians are neglected in favor of traffic, which though it seems reasonable to reduce congestion, ultimately it bolsters the car-centric culture of the city, which is a catch-22; make it easier to drive in Boston, and more people will do so, effectively eliminating the improvement. Make it easier to take public trans, bicycle, or walk, and you will truly improve transportation in this city.