Description
When a pedestrian arrives at this intersection intending to cross (either direction, either corner) and the traffic signal is already green in their intended direction, the walk signal will be the red hand (i.e. don't walk) unless someone has already pressed the walk button.
This creates a confusing situation where turning traffic from Fairlawn onto Yonge (both directions) feels that they are entitled to proceed while pedestrians are held back until the next cycle (provided they press the walk button before then). Some pedestrians begin to cross regardless of the pedestrian signal, and several close calls have already occurred.
Ideally these two should be synchronized, with the cross walk request button shortening the cycle time.
5 Comments
Nearby resident (Guest)
seekaybee (Registered User)
That's actually a feature, not a flaw. It's used at intersections where the volume of pedestrian traffic isn't sufficient to merit a walk signal unless a pedestrian requests one. The green light at Fairlawn is probably shorter when the button hasn't been activated, and the signal may only turn green very infrequently when the induction loop hasn't detected a vehicle at the intersection. The purpose is to keep the traffic moving on Yonge.
If you think this should be changed (the light may not have been retimed for a decade), call 311 or fill out the self-service request at https://secure.toronto.ca/webwizard/html/signals_pedestrian_timing.htm
hgross88 (Registered User)
Still outstanding.
Re. Previous comment (feature vs. problem): pedestrians having to wait for another complete cycle to complete is not a feature. Residents walking to nearby establishments should have priority over through traffic. I say this as a frequent driver through this intersection, particularly one who travels from west to east via Fairlawn to Snowdon.
hgross88 (Registered User)
Closed hgross88 (Registered User)