Blue Light Installation
Published on September 05, 2023
The Tucson Department of Transportation and Mobility (DTM), in collaboration with the Tucson Police Department (TPD), is initiating a blue light installation and enforcement program at various intersections throughout the city. Blue lights illuminate when a traffic signal turns red. These lights will allow law enforcement officers to view the intersection from a safer location to monitor red light runners. Additionally, studies have shown that blue lights can have a positive impact on encouraging safer driver behavior, resulting in the lights being a cost-effective traffic safety tool.
On Thursday, Sept. 7, 2023, DTM crews are scheduled to install blue lights at the Grant Road and Craycroft Road intersection for all left turn movements. This intersection was selected based on the historically high frequency of left-turn collisions and higher traffic volumes in this area.
During the installation, between 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. staff from both DTM and TPD will be on-site at the southeast corner of the intersection and available to provide information regarding the blue light program.
Traffic signals will be in operation during the blue light installation; however, travel restrictions will be in place for all directions of travel.
The installation of the blue light has been shown to reduce the frequency of crashes when the traveling public understands that the presence of the blue light allows enforcement to take place from a distance, where the officer may not be seen. The understanding is that the presence of, and public awareness of the blue lights contributes to the reduction of red-light violations and crashes. This program prioritizes safety at intersections for all modes of transportation as well as law enforcement officers. The blue lights are not cameras and do not take pictures or video.
On Wednesday, Sept. 6, to accommodate the installation of the blue lights, crews from Next Generation Electrical, are scheduled to convert the traffic signal heads to flashing yellow arrows and replace the traffic signal mast arms for both eastbound and westbound travel.
The work is scheduled to take place between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., the same day. During this work, the traffic signals will not be in operation. In addition, lane restrictions will be in place at the intersection for all travel directions. Law enforcement officers will be on-site to direct travel through the intersection until the work is complete.
The traveling public can expect delays when driving in the work area. Please obey all traffic control signs and watch for officers and construction personnel in the area.
The schedule is subject to change due to inclement weather or unforeseen circumstances. Message boards are in place to alert the traveling public.