More walk time could be coming to Oʻahu intersections

Transportation officials want to improve roads across the islands by boosting pedestrian safety at local intersections.

One improvement includes signals that are designed to give people a head start in the crosswalk. Officials said they are working to add more leading pedestrian intervals (LPIs) on Oʻahu.

“And that essentially means, it’s like a change at a signal that provides pedestrians a few extra seconds to start crossing the street before vehicles get the green light to turn,” said Abbey Seitz with the Hawaiʻi Appleseed Center for Law & Economic Justice. “Usually, three to seven seconds is when pedestrians can start crossing the street.”

Advocates said an LPI is especially effective when it is paired with an accessible pedestrian signal (APS), which provides cues for those with vision impairments.

“You could only imagine if you’re crossing a four or five, six lane road. You’re going to want as much time crossing as possible. And so knowing when you can start crossing safely is really important,” Seitz said.