Scramble Light now has left turn arrow

<p>The university began work to install a left turn arrow at the Scramble Light on Oct. 10, according to a university email. Drivers on Riverside or McKinley avenues will be able to turn left under the protected arrow now. <em>DN PHOTO EMMA ROGERS</em></p><p><em><br /></em></p><p><em><br /></em></p>

The university began work to install a left turn arrow at the Scramble Light on Oct. 10, according to a university email. Drivers on Riverside or McKinley avenues will be able to turn left under the protected arrow now. DN PHOTO EMMA ROGERS



Drivers on campus will now be able to turn left with a protected arrow at the Scramble Light, making it easier to get through the light when traffic is heavy. 

The Scramble Light, located at McKinley and Riverside avenues, has been a main intersection for traffic flow for students and cars at Ball State.

The light was originally redone in 2011, including traffic signals, a control box and copper loops to detect a car’s wait time. Jim Lowe, associate vice president for facilities, planning and management, said the left turn signal was not needed at the time because of the low traffic flow.

“We installed the software in the control box, knowing that in the future we may need a left turn signal,” Lowe said.

The new left turn signal provides a safe reassurance for those driving and pedestrians crossing. Before the new addition, it was riskier for drivers while turning left.

Freshman theatre major Shelley Linder said before the left turn arrow was installed, it was dangerous to attempt to turn because of the oncoming traffic.

“There has been multiple occasions where I have almost hit other cars because I couldn’t see past them,” she said.

The left turn signal installation began the morning of Oct. 10 and was finished Oct. 11. Before the new signal was installed, the street department set up a mock situation.

“I am very thankful the city of Muncie street department put together this plan and put it into action. I applaud their efforts," Lowe said.

The Scramble Light will now create an easier traffic flow for cars, while still allowing the 30-second chirp to sound for pedestrians still scrambling to cross.

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