By making modifications to traffic signals we can improve pedestrian safety and traffic flow at a relatively small cost. This fits well with a key objective of the Traffic Congestion Management Program—to make the most of existing infrastructure.
Many successful initiatives involving traffic signal enhancements have been conducted as part of this program the most notable has been the introduction of pedestrian countdown timers.
The introduction of countdown timers, which replaced the flashing red person, informs pedestrians how many seconds they have left to cross the road. This means pedestrians are less likely to cross when there is not enough time to finish crossing safely, improving intersection efficiency for both pedestrians and motorists and helping motorists arrive more quickly at a destination.
After the initial trial in Perth CBD in 2014, countdown timers were expanded to 17 locations across the Perth metropolitan area. This year the program installed countdown timers to an even wider reach with 23 intersections covered including five regional sites—two in Geraldton, two in Kalgoorlie and one in Bunbury. The remaining 18 were installed at locations across the Perth metropolitan area.
Countdown timers are popular with pedestrians and motorists alike, positive feedback has been received since first installation. The countdown timers now form part of the approved Main Roads standards and will continue to be used to improve community safety and traffic flow as further sites are selected for improvements. For more information on where we have installed these devices or are planning to in the future visit our website.
