Drivers will notice something new on traffic signals at intersections throughout Issaquah: a flashing yellow left-turn arrow.
The new signal is a traffic management tool aimed at keeping traffic moving and increasing safety while reducing delays and fuel consumption. The signal display more clearly indicates to drivers when it’s OK to make left turn across traffic. A flashing yellow means to turn with caution.
Work has started, and is planned for completion by November. The majority of work will occur at night, with no daytime lane closures planned.
As part of this project, seven signals will be converted to flashing yellow arrows: Front Street and Sunset Way (northbound and southbound left-turn signals); East Lake Sammamish Parkway Southeast and Southeast 51st Street (northbound and southbound left-turn signals); East Lake Sammamish Parkway Southeast and Southeast Black Nugget Road (southbound left-turn signal); Front Street South and Newport Way Southwest (northbound and southbound left-turn signals); Northeast Park Drive and 10th Avenue Northeast (eastbound and westbound left-turn signals); Newport Way Northwest and Maple Street Northwest (northbound and southbound left-turn signals); East Lake Sammamish Parkway Southeast and Southeast Issaquah-Fall City Road (northbound and southbound left-turn signals). Some city traffic signals — including Southeast 56th Street and 221st Place Southeast and Fourth Avenue Northwest and the Issaquah Post Office — currently operate with the flashing yellow left-turn arrow.
In most locations, the flashing yellow arrow display will be part of a four-arrow display. At some locations, a three-section signal head may be used to display the flashing yellow arrow.
Using the flashing yellow arrow display gives traffic engineers the flexibility to use specific indications at different times of day. This means that the flashing yellow arrow or steady green arrow may not be seen every time a motorist approaches the intersection. The new signal system can reduce wait times compared to traditional left turn signals.
