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Two Pedestrian Scrambles Installed in Downtown Phoenix
People who live, work or play in downtown Phoenix no longer have to look to Tokyo or New York City to learn what a pedestrian scramble is. A pedestrian scramble is an intersection that allows pedestrians to cross in any direction. Downtown Phoenix is now home to two pedestrian scrambles, complete with all-way crosswalks and a traffic signal phase that temporarily stops all vehicular traffic, allowing pedestrians to cross the street in any direction, including diagonally.
“As the fifth largest and fastest growing city in the nation, the installation of two pedestrian scrambles downtown is just one example of how Phoenix is constantly improving our infrastructure through innovation and data,” said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego. “These are exciting additions and will create a better experience for our residents, regardless of how they decide to travel.”
The two pedestrian scramble intersections are adjacent to the downtown Arizona State University campus on Taylor Street at 1st and 3rd Streets. With many people walking in this area, the pedestrian-only phase of the traffic signals is expected to improve safety and reduce delays for people walking and people driving.
“No matter how you travel on our city’s roadways, safety must always come first,” said Councilman Michael Nowakowski. “The installation of two pedestrian scrambles in Phoenix is an innovative safety improvement for the many pedestrians commuting downtown to work, school, events or home.”
Street Transportation Director, Kini Knudson, explains that these intersections are another step to improve mobility in Phoenix, but added that they are part of a long-term strategy. “We are always looking at ways to improve our roadways for all users – people walking or jogging, riding bicycles or scooters or driving cars. For downtown Phoenix, the addition of these two pedestrian scrambles is just one of many recent and upcoming improvements.” He highlights that the 3rd and 5th Avenues Project is under construction, the 3rd Street Project will begin construction in spring 2021, and that the Downtown Transportation Plan Updatedemonstrates that our infrastructure is set up for success. Learn more about the department’s capital improvement projects here.
The pedestrian scrambles were both installed and activated in October, which is National Pedestrian Safety Month. People walking are encouraged to only cross when given indication from the traffic signal. Diagonal crossing is only acceptable at these two specially marked crosswalks. At all other intersections, pedestrians should cross at designated crosswalks as indicated by the paint markings.