New Braselton traffic signal set to become operational next week

GAINESVILLE - The Georgia Department of Transportation announces a new traffic signal is scheduled to be operational Thursday, January 29, in Braselton, if weather permits and testing goes well. The new signal is flashing now at the intersection of State Route 347 at the new Northeast Georgia Health System's Medical Plaza on River Place.<br /> <br /> The signal is a new generation operation which GDOT has begun installing around the state.<br /> <br /> They are called Four-Section Flashing Yellow Arrow (FYA) signals and are being placed at intersections with historic heavy left-turning traffic volumes. The FYA signals apply exclusively to drivers making left turns. The signal will be a vertical display of four left turn arrows functioning as follows:<br /> <br /> · When solid Red arrow is illuminated, no left turn is allowed;<br /> · When solid Yellow arrow is displayed, drivers should prepare to stop as light is about to turn red;<br /> · When flashing Yellow arrow is illuminated, drivers may turn left but must yield to pedestrians and oncoming vehicles; and<br /> · When solid Green arrow is displayed, drivers may turn left. <br /> <br /> Federal Highway Administration studies have shown these signals help reduce crashes of left-turning vehicles by as much as 35 percent. The FYA also offers clearer guidance to drivers turning left and allows them more movement through the intersection when no pedestrians or oncoming traffic are present, thereby reducing back-ups, engine idling and auto emissions.<br /> <br /> This is the 12th flashing yellow arrow installed in Georgia DOT's Northeast service area, known as District One.