Traffic Signals & Signage

To ensure the most optimum flow of traffic, bicycles, and pedestrians on campus roadways, UCI Transportation conducts quarterly studies to determine travel patterns. This information is used to efficiently time traffic signals, set speed limits, calculate GHG emissions, and place traffic signs along the roadways.

Efficient programming of traffic signals enables vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians to travel safely and efficiently on campus. In its signal timing, UCI Transportation accommodates different traffic demands at different times of the day. The results are field-verified to ensure optimum performance.

Traffic signal programming is based on federal standards and state law. The California Department of Transportation guidelines can be found in the California Manual for Uniform Traffic Control Devices (CAMUTCD).

Green Indication:

The green indication is intended to allow users to travel through the intersection safely and efficiently. The duration of green indication is determined based on traffic demand and time of day. Vehicles entering the intersection on a green indication should always use caution and do so safely, obeying all road signs and lane markings.

Yellow Change Indication:

The yellow change indication alerts the driver to be cautious and that the red light will appear next. When you see a yellow change indication, you should stop if you can do so safely. If you cannot stop safely, proceed into the intersection cautiously. The length of the yellow light indication is defined by state law and generally is based on the speed limit of the road (CVC 21400).

Red Clearance Indication:

There is a brief time where all sides of the intersection see a red indication. This clearance interval is intended to allow any vehicles that may be in the intersection to clear safely before the next green indication is shown. The clearance time is based on the speed limit and the width of the intersection.

For the convenience of bicyclists traveling on campus roadways, bicycle loop sensors have been installed at every campus signal intersection. The sensors are specially designed and tuned to detect a bicycle on the roadway. To activate, place your bicycle directly on top of the sensor in the center of the lane near the solid white limit line of the intersection.

Occasionally, some modern bicycles made from advanced composites or carbon fiber may not activate the sensor. The bicycle push button located at the intersection can be used to request a green light.

Visit the UCI Bike Website for more information.

To ensure the safe travel of both vehicles and pedestrians, it is important for pedestrians to cross the intersection in the marked crosswalks and pay close attention to the pedestrian signals.

Before entering the crosswalk, always check that the intersection is clear and safe, then you may begin crossing the intersection.

Pedestrians should not begin crossing. Those who have already started during the white walk symbol may complete their crossing. The countdown timer shows the number of seconds remaining before the light turns yellow.

No pedestrians may enter the intersection.

The intersection uses sensors in the roadway located in the center of the lane near the solid white limit line of the intersection to detect vehicles. These sensors are specifically designed and tuned to detect a bicycle. If you place your bicycle directly on top of the sensor, the traffic signal will detect your bicycle.

Some modern bicycles made from advanced composites or carbon fiber may not activate the sensor. The bicycle push button located at the intersection can be used to request a green light

Visit the UCI Bike Website for more information. 

The process for establishing speed limits is prescribed by state law. Roadway features such as crosswalks, driveways and sight distance are all considered when establishing a speed limit. These features are evaluated along with traffic volumes and driving habits of motorists traveling on that particular section of roadway.

The green light timing is optimized for daily traffic on campus. Occasionally, campus construction or special events can change traffic patterns and cause congestion. The department works with planners to forecast and adjust traffic plans to reduce traffic impacts as much as possible.

If there is excessive delay at a traffic signal, please contact traffic@uci.edu.

Yellow times are prescribed by state law (VC 21400) and managed by the California Department of Transportation. The timing is designed to best accommodate the needs of all types of vehicles, ranging from bicycles and motorcycles to passenger cars and semi-trucks.

For more information, visit the  California Department of Transportation website.

Flashing red or traffic signals that are off can result from emergencies, maintenance projects or special events. When you see a flashing red or traffic signal that are off, approach the intersection with extreme caution and treat the intersection as you would an all-way stop sign. Often times, a traffic director or police officer will be directing traffic at the intersection. Please give them your full attention and follow their instructions.

For more information on flashing red or dark traffic signals, see the California Vehicle Code on the California Department of Transportation website.

If you notice a traffic signal that is not working properly, please contact the traffic management division at 949-824-0967 or email traffic@uci.edu.

Pedestrian flow is carefully monitored and marked crosswalks are placed at areas that will best serve pedestrian safety. Marked midblock pedestrian crosswalks can cause an increase in pedestrian vs. vehicle collisions. In a marked crosswalk, a pedestrian will often enter the crosswalk assuming the motorist will see them and yield the right of way.