10/14/2010
Reed Hollinshead
ITD Communication
208-334-8881
reed.hollinshead@itd.idaho.gov
UPDATE: Overland Avenue traffic signals now on, new turn signals at Fifth and Seventh Streets
BURLEY - A new type of traffic signal has appeared at two of the reconstructed intersections along Overland Avenue. The "flashing yellow arrow" signals are becoming common among new signal configurations throughout the state but are new to Overland Avenue, the Idaho Transportation Department advises.
The new flashing yellow arrow has been put in place for left-turn movements at Fifth and Seventh Streets. The flashing yellow arrow signals drivers to proceed with caution and yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic.
The traffic signals, including a traditional three-head traffic signal at Third Street, were finally initiated on Thursday (Oct. 13) after a hardware malfunction delayed start-up by about a week.
The flashing yellow arrow replaces the permissive green "ball" traditionally used in traffic signal configurations. Flashing yellow arrows indicate a permissive move for drivers turning left. Drivers can make a left turn but must yield to oncoming traffic. If the signal detects that vehicles are not moving through the left-turn lane, a solid green arrow phase will follow, providing protected left-turn movements.
The signal has four phases:
1. Green arrow represents a protected turn
2. Flashing yellow - proceed with caution and yield to oncoming traffic
3. Solid yellow - prepare to stop
4. Solid red - stop.
Drivers are reminded to pay close attention to the signal, particularly until they become accustomed to the new signal.
Throughout the remainder of the reconstruction project, crews are still working to complete several details of the new roadway including landscaping in the median and outside the roadway and final concrete work. Drivers should continue to watch for limited lane closures during working hours for the next three weeks.
Knife River Corporation Northwest, of Boise, is the contractor for the $3.13 million reconstruction.