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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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96 sec

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