Redesigning an Intersection: The Cost of Prioritizing Cars Over Pedestrians
Orange, California, a quaint college town hosting Chapman University, recently underwent a street redesign that raises questions about our broader values for vehicles over people. This change at the intersection of Lemon Street and Palm Avenue exemplifies how the need for speed often outweighs pedestrian safety, even in walkable areas.
A Walkable Haven Under Threat
Old Towne Orange is among the most walkable locations in Orange County, featuring a charming downtown brimming with shops, restaurants, and civic services. This environment, reminiscent of old streetcar neighborhoods, offers a lifestyle where a car-free existence is possible—a lifestyle enjoyed by many, including those affiliated with Chapman University.
A “Solution” to a Nonexistent Problem
The Lemon and Palm intersection previously featured a four-way stop, allowing pedestrians right of way. Despite being a neighborhood street amid the university campus and adjacent to the popular film school, the city replaced stop signs with traffic signals. This move stemmed from an “engineering analysis” suggesting that the volume of traffic justified a signal to enhance flow.
Impact on Pedestrian Safety
The transition to traffic lights, funded by Chapman University to the tune of $600,000, introduced a “beg button” for pedestrians, requiring them to wait for a signal before crossing. This change introduced inconvenience and compromised safety, as drivers now often run red lights to avoid delay, as evidenced during a 15-minute observation period.
Aligning Street Design Values
This intersection’s redesign reflects a broader pattern seen across American cities, where street improvements favor vehicle velocity over pedestrian well-being. While it does not undermine Chapman’s appeal or the town’s charm, it highlights a pervasive challenge where minor gains for motorists lead to decreased pedestrian comfort and increased risk.
Lemon and Palm serve as a microcosm of streets nationwide, reminding us that decisions favoring drivers’ convenience accumulate to make walking in the U.S. less pleasant and more hazardous. As we continue urban planning conversations, it is crucial to reassess our priorities and ensure streets serve everyone safely and efficiently.