5/11/2011
Reed Hollinshead
ITD Communication
208-334-8881
reed.hollinshead@itd.idaho.gov
New traffic signal goes into operation in Middleton today
MIDDLETON - A new traffic signal will become operational today (Wednesday, May 11) at the new Ridley's grocery store in Middleton at Star Road (Idaho 44) and South Middleton Road, the Idaho Transportation Department announced.
The signal will feature a Flashing Yellow Arrow (FYA) governing the westbound left turn onto Idaho 44. The flashing yellow arrow means, "proceed with caution and yield to oncoming traffic."
The signal has four phases:
1. Green arrow - represents a protected turn
2. Flashing yellow arrow - proceed with caution and yield to oncoming traffic
3. Solid yellow arrow - prepare to stop
4. Solid red arrow - stop
The FYA will replace the permissive green ball traditionally used in traffic signal configurations. Flashing yellow arrows indicate a permissive move for drivers turning left - they 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 FYA signal is more efficient and improves
safety. The signal also saves on motorists' fuel and time at the
intersection. Historically, the green ball governing left turns has led
some motorists to wrongly think they have a
protected turning movement. By contrast, highway users seem to intuitively know
the flashing yellow is communicating the need for caution in the turn.
"After several years and a great cooperative effort from all involved, the signal light at Highway 44 and Middleton Road is about to become a reality, said Middleton Mayor Vicki Thurber. We look forward to the safety factor and the ease of traffic flow that it will provide. Many thanks go out to all those involved with a special acknowledgement to Ridley's for this great addition to our city."
For more information, please contact Mayor Thurber or Wendy Howell with the city's Planning & Zoning department at 585-3133.