From time to time, we receive concerns from Councillors and the public regarding pedestrian safety at signalized intersections. One of the most common complaints is that drivers make turns across the path of pedestrians when the pedestrians have the right of way.
We reviewed pedestrian safey at the intersections of Main & Wellington and King & Wellington. In these cases, the situation is more than just lack of courtesy. A pattern of pedestrian collisions was identified at each intersection that involved turning vehicles colliding with pedestrians.
We examined a number of different options to try to improve the situation. Due to the extremely heavy volumes of vehicles and pedestrians conventional solutions involving modifying the signal operation or restricting crosswalk use were either too restrictive for pedestrians or would have caused extreme traffic congestion. Other than asking for police enforcement, none of the “traditional” solutions seemed to be workable.
It was decided to pursue an alternate approach, involving a new technology.
A few cities in Canada and the U.S. have been experimenting with a new type of signal display called “Signal Eyes” which has met with good success in initial field tests. The display shows a pair of white or blue illuminated eyes that scan left and right to alert both drivers and pedestrians of the need for extra vigilance. This display supplements the standard pedestrian signal and operates during the “Walk” interval.
The Signal Eyes display has been installed in one crosswalk each at King & Wellington and at Main & Wellington.
This device as originally designed attempts to increase vigilance on the part of pedestrians, even when they are crossing with the right of way. However, the issue is really the driver, and lack of respect for pedestrians, especially when pedestrians are finishing crossing legally during the flashing “Don’t Walk”. We asked the manufacturer to develop an improved version of the Signal Eyes with a much larger set of eyes and ones that will scan during both the “Walk” and flashing “Don’t Walk” intervals. This version will be physically separate from the standard pedestrian signals. It will be positioned to emphasize to drivers, as well as pedestrians, the need for caution and vigilance. The Signal Eyes display is augmented by a "LOOK RIGHT" message painted in the crosswalk showing pedestrians that there is a need for extra vigilance. A "WATCH FOR PEDESTRIANS" sign next to the signal display informs drivers to respect pedestrians, especially when pedestrians are finishing crossing legally during the flashing “Don’t Walk.
It is hoped that this new technology will be effective in reducing conflicts between vehicles and pedestrians. Staff will be monitoring the project closely. If the device has the intended effect, use will be expanded to other locations with poor collision histories.
To reach the Traffic Engineering and Operations section, call 546-2424 ext. 5920
or email us at trafsig@hamilton.ca