Lane Ranger: Why is that red light so long?

Dear Lane Ranger,

I need help in understanding why the light at the intersection of Barksdale Street and Dale Boule-vard holds red for so long. I have never before set at a light for so long. On occasions I have watched people back-up to attempt to trip the light.

When trying to make a left turn onto Dale Boulevard, it is faster for me to actually turn right, go to the next intersection down at Cloverdale Road, make a U-turn, and continue on Dale Boulevard. When I do this U can usually pass through the Dale Boulevard / Barksdale Street intersection and the light has still not changed.

A. Lynette Cook

Dale City

Ms. Cook,

With so many intersections along Dale Boulevard, Jennifer McCord with the Virginia Department of Transportation said making them work at maximum efficiency is a matter of timing.

On weekdays from 5:30 a.m. until 10 p.m., the signal light at Dale Boulevard and Barksdale Street is coordinated with 14 other intersections, from Ashdale Plaza to Glendale Road, said McCord.

During this time, there are different timings to help ensure the maximum number of cars along the Dale Boulevard corridor. Those timings are longer during morning and evening rush hours and shorter during midday and at nighttime, she added.

The critical intersections along Dale, such as Minnieville Road, Benita Fitzgerald Drive and Gideon Drive help determine the length of the timings. Because of this, other intersections may endure delays.

The signal lights work on sensors during the overnight time period and on weekends.

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