North Avenue Signals and Safety Project

Purpose: Update traffic signal infrastructure and improve safety for people walking, crossing, driving, and taking public transit along North Avenue. There is a long-term need for updated infrastructure with improved safety and accessibility beginning with the intersection of Federal at North. After conducting a Traffic Impact Study, two alternatives have been proposed and will continue to be enhanced with input from the public.

Objectives

• Evaluate need for traffic signal upgrades including upgraded controllers, new pedestrian signals, upgraded ADA accommodations, and upgraded crosswalks.
• Provide improved pedestrian access to Allegheny Commons Park.
• Evaluate opportunities for transit upgrades to provide more waiting room for transit riders and improved pedestrian access to transit stops along North Avenue.
• Evaluate opportunities for travel lane reduction to improve pedestrian safety and mobility and to discourage aggressive driving.

Pedestrian-Focused Alternative

This option focuses on enhancing pedestrian safety and accessibility throughout the corridor. Key elements include:

• Road Diet- Maintain one through-lane in each direction between Arch and Cedar plus a left-turn lane
• Intersection Bump-outs- Reduce crossing distances by up to 30%
• Leading Pedestrian Intervals- 3-5 seconds head start for pedestrians
• On-street Parking- Addition of more than 50 on-street parking spaces to buffer southern sidewalk from live traffic

Transit-Focused Alternative

This option will allow for better flow of traffic by decreasing bus blockages and better transit reliability. Key elements include:

• Road Diet- Maintain one through-lane in each direction between Arch and Cedar plus a left-turn lane
• Bus Pullouts- Reduce bus blockages while boarding and alighting
• Transit Signal Priority- Extended green to allow bus to proceed
• On-street Parking- Addition of on-street parking spaces to buffer southern sidewalk from live traffic