I’ve written about this before.
The problem with traffic signals is that they make all of the problems they’re designed to solve worse. By “all the problems” I mean:
- Pollution
- Congestion
- Deaths
- Accidents
- Speed of Transit
- Risk to pedestrians (except those with certain disabilities)
Banning red light cameras is a great first step, but the ultimate goal should be elimination of traffic lights altogether.
Watch both episodes. Decide for yourself.
Turning the lights off worked.
- Less pollution
- Fewer accidents (cars and pedestrians)
- Less congestion
- Shorter commutes
- Safer roads
- Happier people
- Up to 20 percent better fuel economy
Join Free to Choose. Let’s bring the movement to America and to St. Louis.
Posted in: Design
Brian Bollmann
March 8, 2011
Perfect example of this occurred in Downtown St. Louis. Near the Eads bridge are several stop lights that are typically flashing red. One day, the powers-that-be decided to turn them on, and for the several weeks they were on.
The traffic backup extended back to the south side of the Arch. Turned them back off, congestions subsided, and people successfully navigate the intersections every day!
admin
March 8, 2011
I had the same experience near a Schnuck’s I used to frequent in Wildwood. For years there were traffic lights that were actually turned off. Two consecutive intersections. There was never a problem. Then one day in about 2004, they turned them on. Instant gridlock. To this day, traffic is a thousand times worse than it was without the lights. And there’s been no major new housing development.
The traffic light lobby is powerful.