WHY DOESN'T THE 'WALK' SYMBOL STAY ON UNTIL I'M COMPLETELY ACROSS THE STREET?

The 'Walk' symbol has two purposes, it lets pedestrians know when to begin their crossing, and, it is timed to allow pedestrians to get approximately half way across the intersection.

When you are part of the way across, the 'Flashing Don't Walk' indication may come on. Complete your crossing as there is enough time to do so safely.

WHY DOESN'T THE 'WALK' SYMBOL COME ON EVERY TIME THE TRAFFIC SIGNALS TURN GREEN?

At some traffic signals within the Region of Waterloo, a separate timing plan is provided for pedestrians and for vehicles. The pedestrian walk indication will only be displayed if the pushbutton is pushed. All intersections which operate this way are equipped with pedestrian pushbuttons. Remember, PUSH THE BUTTON.

WHY DO I HAVE TO WAIT FOR THE 'WALK' SYMBOL AFTER I HAVE PUSHED THE PUSHBUTTON?

Generally, traffic signals are timed to favour the heavier traffic volumes on major streets. When the pedestrian pushbutton is pushed, a message is sent to the traffic signal controller that there is a pedestrian waiting to cross the street. A delay may be encountered while waiting for the traffic signals to change. The signals will change at a pre-set time which will minimize the interruption to the traffic on the major street.

HOW CAN I BE SURE THAT MY CHILDREN AND I CROSS THE ROAD SAFELY?

First, check for a pedestrian pushbutton. If there is one, push the button for the direction you want to cross. The pedestrian signal head will not change unless you push the button. Once the walk symbol is displayed, begin your crossing. The pedestrian signal heads are timed according to walking speed so you do not have to run, but do walk briskly.

Pedestrian information signs have been installed at many signalized intersections in the Region of Waterloo. They describe how the pedestrian signal heads operate. Please look for them.

WHY DO SOME INTERSECTIONS HAVE PEDESTRIAN SIGNAL HEADS AND OTHERS DO NOT?

It is general practice in the Region of Waterloo to install pedestrian signal heads at all new traffic control signals where there is pedestrian activity.

Pedestrian signal heads are added to existing traffic control signals as budgets permit.

HOW DO I SAFELY CROSS FROM A RIGHT TURN ISLAND TO THE CURB WHEN THERE ARE NO PEDESTRIAN SIGNALS? DO THE CARS HAVE TO STOP FOR ME?

In most cases, the crossing between the island and the curb is not controlled by the traffic signals. This means that pedestrians must yield the right of way to turning vehicles.