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8 intersections will get mast arm traffic signals

The $1.6-million job will add crosswalks and more on First and Second streets.

By JON WILSON
Published February 4, 2007

During the past few weeks, downtown strollers likely have noticed mysterious, spray-painted markings on sidewalks east of Fourth Street.

They are engineering techno-codes that herald a forthcoming project to install mast arm traffic signals at eight intersections on First and Second Streets, from Central Avenue to Fourth Avenue S.

The $1.6-million job also will include installation of crosswalks, pedestrian signals and ramps to accommodate disabled people.

Traffic disruption should be modest, said Tom Gibson, city engineering director.

Single-lane traffic might be necessary during short periods, but no major reroutings are expected, Gibson said.

Mast arm signals are installed on a metal assembly with a rod that sticks out over the street. They are considered more wind-resistant than signals mounted on wires, officials say.

The project is still in design, but work should start sometime in March, Gibson said. Work will be done in phases, and First Street is first on the agenda.

Once under way, the job should take nine months to a year, Gibson said.

[Last modified February 3, 2007, 20:46:10]