The ability to turn right on a red light could be eliminated entirely in Old Town.
The Alexandria Traffic and Parking Board will vote Monday (Oct. 26) on whether to install “no turn on red” signage at all signalized intersections in the Old Town, Old Town North and Braddock/Parker-Gray neighborhoods. The changes would apply to traffic signals between First Street to the north, city limits to the south, the Potomac River to the east and railroad tracks to the west. There are about 100 signalized intersections within the project area.
According to city staff, data shows 318 crashes involving pedestrians from 2020 to 2025, with 60% happening at signalized intersections. Of the city’s 145 crashes with severe injuries or fatalities during that time period, 39% involved pedestrians.
“People walking and biking are especially vulnerable to fatal or severe injury in the event of a crash due to the lack of protection of a vehicle,” city staff said. “Children and older adults also face a higher risk of fatal or severe injury.”
Along with the “no turn on red” restrictions, the board is asked to approve leading pedestrian intervals for the signalized intersections. Those signals allow pedestrians to get a head start on crossing while traffic is stopped, which city staff says can improve visibility of pedestrians, reduce conflicts between drivers and pedestrians and increase likelihood of yielding to pedestrians.
The proposal is a consent item on the board’s Monday agenda. The board will also consider “no turn on red” restrictions at the intersections of Mount Vernon Avenue and Glebe Road and Quaker Lane, Janneys Lane and Seminary Road to address pedestrian safety near schools. There will also be a public hearing on various changes to parking spaces in Old Town to support parking needs for businesses.
The board’s meeting begins at 7 p.m. at 2900-B Business Center Drive and virtually through Zoom.
