Traffic Signal Removals

Deciding Whether to Replace or Remove a Traffic Signal

Near the end of a traffic signal’s life expectancy, an engineering study is performed to determine if a replacement traffic signal should be installed or if some other intersection configuration would operate safer and more efficiently.

For a replacement traffic signal to be installed, at least one warrant (criteria) needs to be satisfied from the federal Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD).  Satisfying an MUTCD warrant (criteria) does not require a traffic signal to be installed, but allows a traffic signal to be one of the options analyzed in the engineering study.

Process for Removing a Traffic Signal

If the engineering study recommends removing a traffic signal, the removal is accomplished using the following steps:

• Determine the appropriate intersection configuration to be used after the signal is removed, such as:  side street stop, all-way stop, or roundabout.  Note, if a roundabout will be installed, then the below items either do not apply or will be addressed during the design stage.
• Remove any sight-distance restrictions as necessary, such as trimming trees or adjusting NO PARKING zones near intersection corners.
• Inform the public of the removal study.
• Cover or remove the traffic signal heads for a minimum of 90 days, and install the appropriate stop sign control.
• Remove the signal if the engineering data collected during the 90-day trial period confirms that the signal is no longer needed.