Grant County's only traffic signal was turned back on Nov. 18, 2024.

Signal replaced four-way stop on Nov. 18

On Monday, we turned on the signal after the intersection operated as a four-way stop since July. It may take drivers a little while to readjust to this traffic pattern, so we urge everyone to use caution while traveling through the intersection.

Thank you!

We want to express our gratitude to everyone who called, emailed, and attended the open house to share their comments about the traffic signal.

Public meeting follow-up

You left us with a few questions, and we promised to look into them.

Late night flashing red

Q: Can the traffic signal switch to flashing red at 9 p.m., like it used to years ago?

• ODOT’s current signal policy and guidelines do not allow the traffic signal to operate this way. The transition to and from the red flash can lead to confusion for drivers and flashing operations do not indicate pedestrian crossings, which is a concern we heard from the community.
• The radar detection system is more sensitive than traditional loop sensors that were removed at this intersection. This system allows more efficient signal cycling by monitoring the entire approach rather than relying on fixed points, like loops, that have pre-determined extension times. The new signal configuration will help the light turn green faster if somebody pulls up and the light is red with no other traffic.

Pedestrian crossings

Q: Can the timing of the signal be adjusted to give pedestrians more time to cross?

• Standards recently changed and allow more time for pedestrians to cross the road. These crossing times are established according to national standards outlined in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD).

• If we observe crossing times to be insufficient, a slower walk speed may be used for calculating the crossing time. We would approach this decision with caution as unnecessarily long pedestrian crossing times can increase vehicle delay, cause driver frustration, and reduce compliance.

Q: What is the maximum wait time that drivers and pedestrians might experience at this signal?

• The maximum cycle length at this intersection during normal operations is 80 seconds. This means that a driver should not have to wait more than 45 seconds at a red light before getting a green.

What's next?

The traffic signal will remain turned on and we will continue to monitor for safety and operations.