Improving traffic flow at a north Lethbridge intersection

A big change is coming to the traffic lights at the busy intersection of 13 Street North and 5 Avenue North in Lethbridge.

The City of Lethbridge is introducing alternating left turn signals along 13 Street North. Currently, only northbound traffic has a left turn signal.

The new system gives each direction of traffic a chance to turn left in alternating cycles. During one cycle, northbound drivers will get the flashing green arrow to turn left onto 5 Avenue North. In the next cycle, southbound traffic will get the arrow. 

The new system gives each group of drivers a clear and safe chance to turn left. It also keeps traffic flowing smoothly and safely through the intersection. 

This will be the first intersection in Lethbridge to use alternating left turn signals. The change will take place on Tuesday between 9 and 10 a.m. After that, the alternating left turn signals will operate during the following hours:

• Weekdays: 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. 

• Weekends: 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. 

Officials say this strategy has been successful in other cities, especially at intersections without exclusive left turn lanes.

If it is effective at this first intersection in Lethbridge, the City says more may follow suit.