Temporary closures to occur on U.S. 41 in Terre Haute

Crews work on updating traffic lights on U.S. 41 /Lucy Perry Photo

Indiana Department of Transportation

Traffic will be stopped for five minute intervals Wednesday

The Indiana Department of Transportation announces there will be temporary closures at six intersections on U.S. 41 during the day tomorrow, Wednesday, March 30.  Crews will be hanging wires for the new traffic signals in Terre Haute.  The contractor plans to begin at Hulman St. and proceed north to Farrington St., Walnut St., Wabash Ave., Cherry St. and finish up at the Chestnut St. intersection.  It is anticipated for traffic to be stopped for five minutes in each direction at each intersection.  Motorists are encouraged to seek an alternate route.

Midwestern Electric was awarded the $1.2 million traffic signal modernization contract.  This contract is scheduled to be completed by the end of May of this year.

The most notable change to these new traffic signals will be the addition of a flashing yellow arrow. Flashing yellow arrow signals allow left-turning traffic to yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic and pedestrians and turn when a suitable gap is available. This type of signal improves intersection efficiency by using cross-traffic gaps to allow more left turns. 

When waiting in a dedicated left-turn lane, traffic may first see a flashing yellow arrow, depending upon signal phasing. Should there not be suitable gaps in oncoming through traffic and sensors detect cars waiting to turn left, the flashing yellow arrow could change to a steady green arrow. This would stop oncoming traffic, allowing a protected left turn for drivers.

More information about flashing yellow left-turn arrow signals is available atwww.in.gov/indot/3202.htm. You can also watch a video about flashing yellow arrows on INDOT’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TmSfBsVKs7o

 Stay informed
Updated information and a map of the closure are available on the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) TrafficWise service at indot.carsprogram.org. Roadway information is also available by calling 1-800-261-ROAD (7623) or 511 from a mobile phone.