City of Sequim tests timing of crosswalk signals

March 20, 2014 3:13 pm

The City of Sequim Public Works Department worked recently with the Washington State Department of Transportation to test the timing of the city’s crosswalk signals to ensure that they are in compliance. All of the signals were within the established timing standards.

 

“We’ve had a couple of calls from residents who are concerned that you can’t get across the street before the flashing ‘upraised hand’ symbol comes into play,” said City of Sequim Streets Manager Mike Brandt. “First we wanted to test the signals to ensure that we were meeting the state of Washington timing standards and guarding the safety of our citizens. We also felt this was a good opportunity to remind the public how the crosswalk signals work.”

 

Pedestrians should adhere to the following rules:

 

• The static symbol of a WALKING PERSON (symbolizing walk) means that a pedestrian facing the signal is permitted to start to cross the roadway in the direction of the signal. This may possibly conflict with turning vehicles, and while pedestrians have the right-of-way, they still need to use caution.

 

• A flashing red UPRAISED HAND signal (symbolizing don’t walk) means that a pedestrian should not leave the curb to start crossing the roadway in the direction of the signal. Pedestrians that already have begun to cross the roadway when the flashing WALKING PERSON signal begins should proceed to the far side of the street. The signal timing is set to give a pedestrian adequate time to complete crossing.

 

• A steady red UPRAISED HAND signal (symbolizing don’t walk) means that a pedestrian should not be in the crosswalk while this signal is displayed.

 

The timing of crosswalk signals is different in every city. The timing is based on the width of the street to be crossed. In the City of Sequim, pedestrians can expect the WALKING PERSON signal to be displayed for 5 to 6 seconds. The flashing red UPRAISED HAND signal will display for 11 to 15 seconds. Once the signal changes to the steady red UPRAISED HAND signal, the pedestrian has 3 to 5 seconds before vehicle traffic will begin to enter the intersection.

 

Contact City of Sequim Streets Manager Mike Brandt in City of Sequim Public Works Department at 683-4908 or mbrandt@sequimwa.gov with questions.