City of Lancaster Enhances Traffic Safety with Strategic Signal Adjustments

In an effort to enhance overall safety and traffic operations, the City of Lancaster is implementing modifications to 90 traffic signals throughout Lancaster city during the month of March. The planned changes include the addition of Leading Pedestrian Intervals (LPIs) as well as adjusting traffic signal timing. 

LPIs, which provide pedestrians with a three-second head start when crossing the street before turning vehicles get the green light, will be introduced at 60 intersections, including: North Prince and West Walnut streets; South Queen, Church and Conestoga streets; and Ann and King streets. LPIs are a proven safety measure that can reduce the incidence of pedestrian-vehicle crashes at intersections by up to 60%, according to the National Association of City Transportation Officials. They are particularly valuable for protecting slower-moving pedestrians, including older adults and school-age children. 

Traffic signals will be synchronized for a 20-mph speed limit, down from the 25-mph speed limit. This change is intended to slow traffic within city limits where cyclists, pedestrians and vehicles all share the street. Additionally, traffic signals will be coordinated in smaller groups and timings will be adjusted based on time of day, so drivers may not be able to travel from one end of the city to the other without stopping.

These initiatives align with the City’s Vision Zero initiative to eliminate traffic-related deaths and serious injuries by 2030. Slowing down while driving is the most impactful action motorists can take to prevent fatalities and serious injuries.