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.


    Aerial Shot

    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.
    Crash Data

    Federal at North has the highest frequency of crashes in the corridor.

    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

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    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

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