As everyone has noticed, the new traffic signals at McDonough and Candler are finally being activated. The process, which will result in safer intersections for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists, has not been a smooth one. We apologize for the inconvenience many of you have experienced.
Activation began last Thursday. Since then, significant traffic delays have occurred along East Trinity Place, South Candler Street, North McDonough Street, and College Avenue.
This has been an unusual project for the City because College Avenue is a state highway and all modifications along it are governed and managed by the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT). GDOT has supplied the technology and hardware being installed at each intersection and is managing the activation and programming of the signals.
Each of the two intersections now feature protected left turns which increases overall cycle times. Finding the right balance between all segments requires a real-world process of observation and adjustment. Adjustments have been made and additional signal time has been added to the most trafficked streets to relieve congestion when possible. This will continue until the best balance is found to provide safe and workable conditions for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists.
There have also been occasional service interruptions. The default condition when a service interruption takes place is a flashing red signal. Motorists should treat this as an all-way stop until normal service resumes.
Daily reports and observations indicate improvements are occurring. These efforts will continue until acceptable performance returns.
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