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Pilot Project: Pedestrian Countdown Device

Image of a pedestrian countdown device. As part of a pilot project, the City of Kingston will be installing pedestrian countdown devices at the new traffic signal at the intersection of Sir John A. Macdonald Boulevard and Elmwood Street. At wide and busy intersections, these countdown devices can increase the comfort level of pedestrians.

HOW TO USE THE PEDESTRIAN COUNTDOWN DEVICE

  • Pedestrians MUST push the pedestrian button.
  • The countdown will start as soon as the white walk symbol is displayed.
  • The countdown will continue throughout the "hand flashing phase" and will reach "zero" when the solid hand appears.
  • When the countdown reaches "zero", pedestrians remaining in the crosswalk will still have a few seconds to clear the intersection.
  • Pedestrians should not enter the crosswalk after the red hand has started flashing.
  • If a pedestrian is already in the crosswalk when the hand starts flashing, there should still be enough time to complete the crossing.

As Sir John A. Macdonald Boulevard is a very busy roadway, the new traffic signal at Elmwood Street will be coordinated with the traffic signals at Bath Road and Princess Street as best as possible. This signal coordination will be necessary to reduce the number of vehicles backing up through Elmwood Street.

Pedestrians crossing at the new Elmwood Street traffic signal MUST push the pedestrian button and wait for the walk light to be displayed. The wait time will depend on when the button is activated in the "traffic signal cycle". The wait could range from a few seconds up to a wait of two minutes.

If you require further information or would like to provide your comments on this pilot project, please contact the Engineering Division's Traffic Office at 384-1770, extension 3170.

Remember ... Motorists, cyclists and pedestrians should be aware of and show respect for the safety needs of everyone who uses the roadway.

Safety is everyone's responsibility!

 

This page last modified: January 30, 2012, at 11:08 a.m.