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TESTIMONY
Margaret Forgione, First Deputy Commissioner of the NYC Department of Transportation, on Intro 301 and the efficacy of solar-powered traffic control devices at crosswalks
0:38:30
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Forgione expresses concerns about the efficacy of solar-powered traffic control devices at crosswalks as proposed in a bill.
- The NYC DOT has tested illuminated stop signs and rectangular flashing beacons before, and found no notable difference in compliance or yielding rates compared to regular traffic devices.
- The federal Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices prohibits using in-roadway warning lights at intersections controlled by traffic signals, stop signs or yield signs.
- Research indicates these devices are more effective on higher speed, lower traffic streets, which are typically in non-urban settings.
- There is a risk of a "flashing light fatigue effect" where the more widespread the treatment, the less effective it becomes.
Margaret Forgione
0:38:30
Next, intro 301 sponsored by Council Member Menin.
0:38:33
This bill would require DOT to install at least 100 solar powered traffic control devices.
0:38:39
At crosswalks annually over the next 5 years and to study the efficacy of these devices compared to regular crosswalks.
0:38:46
DOT frequently tests new materials to enhance safety on our streets and would be happy to do additional tests for promising technology.
0:38:55
However, we have done some preliminary studies of the type of technologies envisioned in the bill and have some concerns about their efficacy.
0:39:02
The agency previously tested a small number of illuminated stop signs and found no notable difference in compliance compared to regular stop signs.
0:39:11
And also tested rectangular flashing beacons to supplement warning signs and did not find significant improvement in yielding rates.
0:39:19
However, according to the manual and uniform traffic control devices, in roadway warning lights cannot be used at intersections controlled by traffic signals stop signs or yield signs, meaning only a limited universe of intersections would be eligible for that type of treatment.
0:39:35
In addition, analysis from other jurisdictions across the country identifies greater benefits and higher speed, lower traffic streets.
0:39:43
Which are typically in non urban settings.
0:39:46
Research also indicates a flashing light fatigue effect in which the more widespread the treatment, the less effective it is.
0:39:53
Finally, this bill would require DOT to install a large number of devices, significantly more than is needed to determine efficacy.
0:40:01
That said, we would be happy to discuss possible new technologies and small scale pilots with the council.
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Margaret Forgione, First Deputy Commissioner of the NYC Department of Transportation, on Intro 144 and the installation of bollards at sidewalks, curb extensions, and pedestrian ramps
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Margaret Forgione, First Deputy Commissioner of the NYC Department of Transportation, on Intro 346 and Legalizing Jaywalking and Pedestrian Safety Concerns