The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) have implemented new signal displays at four locations in Chesterfield County which began this month to make turning left at each intersection more efficient. The new four-head signals use a combination of a green arrow and a flashing yellow to allow for a smoother flow of traffic and to reduce wait time for left-turning vehicles. When illuminated, the flashing yellow arrow allows waiting motorists to make a left turn after yielding to oncoming traffic.
Solid red arrow. Drivers intending to turn left must stop and wait. Do not enter an intersection to turn when a solid red arrow is being displayed.
Solid yellow arrow. The left-turn signal is about to change to red and drivers should prepare to stop or prepare to complete a left turn if they are legally within the intersection and there is no conflicting traffic present.
Flashing yellow arrow: Drivers are allowed to turn left after yielding to all oncoming traffic and to any pedestrians in the crosswalk. Oncoming traffic has a green light. Drivers must wait for a safe gap in oncoming traffic before turning.
Solid green arrow. Left turns have the right of way. All conflicting traffic has a red light.
The yellow signal expansion project includes 22,000 lights across the state and the following locations in Chesterfield and Goochland counties.
- Jefferson Davis Highway (Route 1) at the Home Depot entrance
- Jefferson Davis Highway (Route 1) at Harrowgate Road (Route 144)
- Huguenot Road (Route 147) at Forest Hill Avenue
- Huguenot Road (Route 147) at Woodmont Road
- Meadowville Road at I-291 northbound ramps
- Meadowville Road at I-295 southbound ramps
- Broad Street (Route 250) at Manakin Road
Flashing yellow arrow signals are already in place in several locations around the region. The new signals allow left turns but at the same time communicate the “caution” message to drivers. During the first months after installation, supplemental guiding signage will also be in place to assist drivers with the new conditions.
