A new “No Right Turn on Red” signal for eastbound traffic on Carl Sandburg Drive turning south onto North Henderson Street has raised questions from drivers.
The change is part of an Illinois Department of Transportation project to install Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS) at intersections along Henderson and Main streets, according to City of Galesburg Public Works Director Aaron Gavin.
APS provides audible and tactile feedback for visually impaired pedestrians. At this location, a crosswalk crosses the right-turn lane with an island.
The no-right-turn signal activates when a pedestrian pushes the button to cross the turn lane. Gavin said this allows right turns when no pedestrians are present for better traffic flow but adds protection when they are crossing.
Gavin noted he was not involved in reviewing the warrants for the signal but said it was likely justified by the high volume of right turns and pedestrians using the crosswalk.
While the signals are within city limits, Main and Henderson streets are state routes under IDOT jurisdiction.