Show All Answers

1. Are there any plans to upgrade the traffic signal system or traffic flow systems in Hampton?

The City of Hampton and the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) have recently completed a nine-million dollar project to upgrade the traffic signal system by connecting all signals to a central computer. The project also included installation of 14 closed circuit television cameras with additional cameras planned in the next few years.

2. Can I be assured of a safe crossing if I follow the pedestrian signals?

The pedestrian signal assigns your legal rights in the intersection, but you must always be cautious when crossing any intersection.

3. Do I need to activate the pedestrian signal or can I just wait for the light to change?

The pedestrian signal at the intersection is timed for vehicle traffic, not walking traffic. If there is a button to push to activate the pedestrian crossing signal, you would need to activate it and wait for it to indicate a safe crossing.

4. How are the signals timed and why do I have to wait so long for the green light?

The goal is to get the greatest number of vehicles through the system with the fewest stops in a comfortable manner. The busiest traffic movement takes priority and the longest master cycle in most systems is 120 seconds.

5. How is it determined that a traffic signal is needed at a location?

As traffic volumes increase beyond the capacity of "Stop" signs a traffic signal is considered. Before a signal can be installed a review of both the vehicle and pedestrian traffic is made; the need to provide traffic interruption; special consideration such as curves; and the accident history or proximity of the intersection to a school. Following the traffic study a decision is made to install or not install the signal.

6. How much does it cost to install a new traffic signal?

Traffic signals are a very costly investment. Typically, a signal can cost $250,000 for the traffic controller, the signal heads, vehicle detectors, signal poles and supports, and the signal preemption (Opticom) equipment. At this cost, careful consideration is necessary before installing new signals.

7. How should I drive if a traffic signal is not operating properly or is out altogether?

At a flashing red light you must stop, yield to oncoming traffic or pedestrians, and proceed when the way is clear. At a flashing yellow light, slow down and proceed with caution. When a signal is completely dark, due to power loss, the light serves to function the same way as a 4-way stop controlled intersection and drivers must stop before entering the intersection.

8. What is the Opticom system for the traffic signals in Hampton?

The Opticom system allows Fire and EMS vehicles to control the green light in order to provide a speedy response and protect the driving public. There are currently over 100 intersections using the system.

9. Whom should I call to report a problem with a traffic light or to address concerns about existing traffic signal timings?

Call the 3-1-1 Customer Call Center. If you are calling from the City of Hampton, simply dial 3-1-1 on your touch tone or rotary dial phone. From outside the City of Hampton, please dial (757) 727-8311. The call center is available from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week to assist you.

10. Why are pedestrian signals available at some intersections and not others?

Pedestrian signals are installed at intersections where there is a high volume of foot traffic or the traffic signals directing motorists don't meet the needs of pedestrians.

11. Why do we need so many traffic signals on our roadways?

Traffic signals offer the maximum control at busy intersections. When timed properly they maximize the traffic handling capacity at an intersection. They also improve the safety for both vehicle and pedestrian traffic.

12. Why don't traffic signals have a left turn arrow all of the time?

In areas where a left turn can be made safely without the aid of a left turn arrow, motorists do not have to wait for the left arrow and can save time in hours of lower traffic volume. During peak hours they still have the leading left arrow for turning safely.

13. Wouldn't pedestrian signals make all intersections safer?

A pedestrian signal does not always improve the safety of walkers at the intersection. Motorists and pedestrians need to use extreme caution when they meet at any intersection. Also, pedestrian signals are costly to purchase, install, operate, and maintain.

14. Who repairs and maintains the school zone warning lights?

Traffic Operations maintains those signs and lights. To report a school zone light-out you can contact the Hampton Customer Call Center at 3-1-1.