Holly Gilvary
RACINE — The city on Wednesday completed the installation of audible traffic signals at six intersections and implemented new traffic signal timing along Main Street between State and Seventh streets.
In a news release, the city said the two measures will improve pedestrian safety and encourage slower vehicle speeds through Downtown Racine.
The audible pedestrian signals provide locator tones and audible walk indications to assist pedestrians who are blind or have low vision in crossing the street safely, according to the city.
The updated traffic signal timing is designed to calm traffic by encouraging drivers to travel at a slower and more consistent speed. Because of the timing of the lights, drivers who try to accelerate between intersections to avoid a red light will encounter longer waits at the next signal, the city said.
The city evaluated several options in response to downtown businesses' and community stakeholders' concerns about vehicle speeds on Main Street. One alternative would have rerouted State Highway 32 off Main Street, which was estimated to cost more than $1.5 million and, according to the city, would not have directly addressed speeding concerns.
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The Racine Department of Public Works installed new signage at intersections with the audible pedestrian signals, such as this one at Fourth and Main. |
Previously, driving between State and Seventh streets during peak traffic periods took an average of 83 seconds. With the new traffic signal timing, the trip will take about 50 seconds longer on average, which the city said will create a safer environment for pedestrians and reduce incentives to speed through downtown. Traffic analysis found the revised timing would increase travel through the corridor to about two minutes while maintaining acceptable traffic operations.
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