Heads up, Tulsa drivers: if you're planning to navigate the intersection of Northeast 36th Street and North Martin Luther King Avenue, you're in for a bit of old-school traffic control. Due to wire damage, which has caused the traffic signals to go dark, the city has implemented a temporary four-way stop. As reported by the City of Tulsa's official press release, there's currently no estimate on when the signals will be back up and running.
In the meantime, drivers should be prepared to possibly wait a little longer than usual at this intersection and are encouraged to maybe find alternative routes. The four-way stop is a measure put in place to "ensure the safety and efficiency of traffic flow and pedestrian crossing," the City of Tulsa press release states. This hiccup in the daily commute is a reminder of how much we rely on the silent sentinels of the streets, the traffic lights that keep us moving smoothly and safely.
The lack of a functional traffic signal at a busy intersection such as this one can lead to congestion and confusion, making it essential for drivers to stay alert and follow the rules of a four-way stop. Remember, the vehicle that arrives first or the one on the right has the right-of-way. While pedestrian safety is a priority, it's also important for those on foot to be attentive and ensure cars have come to a complete stop before they step into the crosswalk.
