(Wednesday night) Pedestrian “HAWK” light takes eons (about 40 sec.) to respond when button is pressed, an improvement over yesterday (at least 60 sec.).
Huron & Third/Chapin
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I think the variability is a function of the need for the light to synchronize with other traffic signals in the corridor.
Good to read your comment, Dave — I thought I was going crazy. Because it has always responded nearly immediately when I press it. I think 40-60 seconds is a very reasonable amount of time to wait to cross a major four-lane road.
Dave, thanks for the explanation.
Matt, it doesn’t *feel* reasonable when the wind chill is 12 degrees and traffic is light. (I could have crossed safely a couple of times while waiting.) It feels as though it takes less time to cross Huron at any light downtown – will have to try timing them next…
I travel down Huron at all times of day and night. I was (am) enormously relieved to see this light in action. That crossing was an accident waiting to happen. As a driver I am happy to comply with this light. I am sure the timing will be tweaked to accommodate pedestrian waiting time and pedestrian crossing time (How do people with disabilities manage the time of the light, for instance…also Mom’s with kids and a stroller.) Any improvement to make our streets safer for everyone is positive!
It’s a little confusing that it flashes red before it goes dark. At a regular intersection flashing red means stop and if clear go. So when it starts flashing the obvious thought is “can I go now?” (Presuming the pedestrian has finished crossing.) While you ponder what to do the light goes dark again…