Drivers’ confusion over new signal adds to canyon congestion, police say

Laguna Beach police think they know why Laguna Canyon Road has arguably become more congested in the past month: the new traffic signal in front of Laguna College of Art + Design.

Cars are stopping for unnecessary periods of time, thus creating delays, the city Police Department said in a news release, though it notes the possibility of “other causes” as well.

Caltrans recently installed a HAWK pedestrian signal, which is different from the yellow blinking lights previously embedded in the pavement and found at various crosswalks throughout the city.

“Part of the problem is that most drivers are unfamiliar with the light and are causing further unnecessary delays,” the release said. “Once the signal cycles through the yellow and solid red phase, two red flashing signals activate. Drivers can go during this time once the pedestrians are clear of the crosswalk. Unfortunately, almost all drivers remain stopped, doubling the time that traffic is delayed.”

A flashing red light means that a stop is required but that the driver can go once the crosswalk is cleared. It is not necessary to remain stopped during the entire flashing red cycle.

“While many feel the signal has contributed to an increase in traffic delays, there may be other causes,” police said. “Before the signal was installed, traffic on Laguna Canyon Road was heavy especially during the afternoon rush-hour period in the morning and afternoon.

“This was compounded by a significant earth removal project on Laguna Canyon Road that required large numbers of trucks coming and going in the morning. That project has passed its peak traffic phase and traffic should improve.”

Police will continue monitoring the signal with time-lapse cameras to determine its effect.

—Bryce Alderton

Twitter: @AldertonBryce