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Board backs temporary pedestrian "head start" at Mamaroneck and Prospect intersection
Summary
Staff recommended installing a leading pedestrian interval (4–7 seconds) at the Mamaroneck/Prospect intersection as an interim safety measure; the board requested a written memo and confirmation the retrofit equipment (likely under $10,000) will be compatible with a future full signal replacement.
Dennis, a village staff member, told the Board the traffic engineer proposed a leading pedestrian interval (LPI) for the Mamaroneck Avenue–Prospect Avenue intersection so the walk signal would activate 4 to 7 seconds before vehicle green, giving pedestrians a visible head start. "Essentially, the walk sign would activate 4 to 7 seconds before the traffic light turns green, which would give the pedestrian a head start," Dennis said.
Dennis said the LPI is an interim alternative to a full signal replacement, which is a capital project that will take longer and cost much more. He estimated the retrofit "could likely be completed for less than $10,000" and said any equipment purchased could be recycled into a later full replacement if it is compatible. He also warned the intersection is a state-controlled signal and coordination with neighboring signals (including the Boston Post Road signal) and differing equipment models could limit options.
Board members sought more detail. The mayor questioned whether the LPI would meaningfully reduce risk for pedestrians who arrive at the crossing mid-cycle, calling the change "one of these feel-good fixes" and urging a written report. Dennis agreed to confirm, before the next meeting, whether the equipment to be installed would support both an LPI retrofit and a future push-button all-pedestrian phase.
The board gave staff direction to obtain a formal memo and to include compatibility information for the purchased equipment so the village could pivot to an all-pedestrian phase later if warranted.
The Board did not take a formal vote on overall signal replacement at this session; staff said they would return with a written report and any recommended budget implications.
