Each year the city receives many inquiries concerning the operation of these signals, as well as requests for additional signals. These inquiries are investigated by the Traffic Engineering Division . Traffic signals are installed and maintained by the Traffic Services Division . When the Traffic Signal Section receives a request for new traffic signals or changes to current signals, we investigate the requests and, based on our findings and traffic engineering standards, recommend appropriate changes. The goal of staff is to control traffic in a safe and orderly manner with as little delay as possible for motorists and pedestrians.
Traffic is defined as the movement of cars, trucks, other vehicles and pedestrians.
When it has been determined that a signal should be installed, the Traffic Signal Section designs the traffic signal and issues the plans and a work order to the Traffic Services Division , who constructs the signal. After the signal has been installed, the Traffic Signal Section sets the timing of the new signal. Traffic signals are set to effectively control traffic at the intersection and to efficiently move as much traffic as possible through the intersection and along an arterial street. As traffic volumes increase beyond the capacity of lesser controls, such as all-way stop control, it may be necessary to install a traffic signal. Before installing a traffic signal at an intersection, established minimum criteria must be satisfied.