 How is the traffic flow managed on major streets? |
The City uses a traffic computer system to coordinate the majority of traffic signals on City, Region of Peel, Ministry of Transportation and 407 ETR streets. The goal of signal coordination is to move the greatest number of vehicles with minimal stops and delays in a safe and efficient manner. The intersection approaches with the busiest traffic movement are given priority.
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| Why are advanced left turn green arrows not used at all signalized intersections? |
Advanced left turn arrows are installed at signalized intersections when left turning vehicles do not have reasonable opportunities to complete their turn because there are few gaps in approaching traffic and safety concerns. Overuse of left turn arrows reduces the amount of green time available for all other movements.
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| How long does it take for a traffic signal to change? |
The majority of traffic signals in Brampton have detectors for vehicles and push buttons for pedestrians. The green phase for a side street is "triggered" with the detection of a vehicle by a wire embedded in the pavement or the push of a pedestrian push button. The length of time before the signal changes to green depends on when the "call" for a green on the side street was received and if the main street traffic demand has been satisfied. The wait time on the side street can vary from a few seconds to two minutes.
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| Does a traffic signal control speeding? |
No. In some areas where speeding is a problem, residents believe that a traffic signal is needed to address a speeding problem. However, other traffic control measures, such as speed limit signs and traffic enforcement, are more effective in controlling speed.
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| What is the safest way for pedestrians to cross the street? |
At most signalized intersections, there are push buttons with informational signs installed on each corner that indicate how to safely cross the street. Press the button once to place a "call" and wait for the WALKING PERSON to be displayed before starting to cross the street. If there is no button, a WALK display will appear automatically to advise when it is safe to cross the street. For your own protection, be attentive and watch for vehicles turning across your path. Make eye contact with the turning driver and be certain that it is safe before continuing to walk across.
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| Why does the orange flashing hand appear before I have finished crossing the street? |
The FLASHING HAND is a warning to people who have not entered the intersection that it is no longer safe to begin to cross. Pedestrians who have already started to cross should finish crossing the street. For safety, press the button once to place a new call and wait for the WALKING PERSON to be displayed before starting to cross the street. If there is no button, wait for a WALK display to automatically appear. The timing of the WALK PERSON and FLASHING HAND is adequate for pedestrians to safely cross the street. It is calculated based on the length of the longest crosswalk distance multiplied by the average walking speed.
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| How do I request to a new traffic signal? |
Contact the Works & Transportation Department at 905-874-2500 (TTY for hearing impaired 905-874-2130). A study will be conducted to access the need for the new traffic signal. The need for a traffic signal is based on total vehicular and pedestrian volumes, delays to side street motorists and pedestrians and collision history at an intersection. The equipment is highly specialized and costly to install, maintain and operate. The justification to install a signal must be carefully considered.
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| Who can I contact to report that a traffic signal light is burnt out or not working properly? |
To report a traffic signal malfunction, call the Works & Transportation Department at 905 874-2500 (TTY for hearing impaired 905-874-2130). The Department's Traffic Signal Maintenance Contractor will repair most problems within 48 hours.
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