You can report a traffic signal issue by submitting an online request to Service Burlington or by contacting us at 905-335-7777 or by email.
Traffic Safety
Within the City of Burlington, we work to carry out and maintain safe and effective measures for the safety of all road users, including driver, cyclists and pedestrians.
Pedestrian crossovers and crossing guards
Learn about pedestrian crossovers and crossing guards, including:
- What makes a pedestrian crossover different from a normal crosswalk
- The role of crossing guards in the community
- How to become a crossing guard
- How to request a crossing guard
- How to provide crossing guard feedback
Protected Bike Lanes and Intersections
Learn about protected bike lanes and intersections, including:
- Cross-rides, cycle tracks and protected intersections
- Dedicated bicycle signals
- Protected bike lane winter maintenance
- How to use protected bike lanes
Speeding and aggressive driving
Learn about speeding and aggressive driving and how you can encourage safe driving habits and lower vehicle speeds on neighbourhood streets.
You can also learn about:
- HRPS' Community ROAD WATCH Program
- How to request a digital speed driver feedback sign
- Traffic calming
Traffic signals
Traffic signals are for the safety of road users. Burlington's signalized intersections are controlled using a central traffic signal system.
About our traffic signal system
Our traffic signal system maintains and coordinates adjacent traffic signals and is based on a number of factors including:
- Direction of major traffic flow
- Distances between traffic signals
- Posted speed limit
- Time of day
- Volume of traffic
School Traffic Safety and Mobility
The School Traffic Safety and Mobility Committee brings together key stakeholders, including Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS), Halton District School Board (HDSB), Halton Catholic District School Board (HCDSB), Halton Student Transportation Services, and Burlington residents to collaboratively address traffic safety and mobility concerns on school sites and adjacent areas, including within the City right of way (ROW).
By using a structured and collaborative approach, the Committee will work with residents, the City of Burlington, and external agencies to develop solutions that improve school safety and encourage active transportation.
Pedestrian signals
Pedestrian signals give pedestrians a safe way to cross intersections where there is not a lot of pedestrian activity or that activity does not happen often. To activate a pedestrian signal, pushi the button. This makes sure the "Walk" signal is displayed when it is your turn to cross. It is still important to be cautious of drivers whenever you cross an intersection.
- The "Walk" signal shows a walking figure and lets pedestrians leave the curb and enter the roadway.
- The "Don't Walk" signal shows a flashing hand and gives enough time for pedestrians who are already in the roadway to finish crossing. Please do not start crossing the roadway from the curb if you see a flashing hand signal, as there may not be enough time for you safely to safely cross.
Accessible pedestrian signals (APS) help visually challenged people safely cross an intersection through the installation of audible and/or tactile measures.
Accessible pedestrian signals:
- Show where a pedestrian signal pushbutton is located
- Indicate the beginning of the "Walk" signal and indicate when signals change via sound prompts
- Provide directions through raised arrows on pushbuttons, voice announcements and tactile indicators located along the intersection's curb ramp. The ramp defines the pavement edge and direction to travel
Benefits
The benefits of accessible pedestrian signals include:
- Assisting people living with vision loss by providing an alert of when the "Walk" signal begins
- Alerting pedestrians when it is not safe to cross during the "Don't Walk" signal
- Reducing crossing delays
Pedestrian Signal Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
If you see the “Don't Walk” signal before you have entered the roadway, do not cross the intersection. Wait for the next “Walk” signal.
If the “Don't Walk” signal appears when you have already begun to cross the roadway, the signal will allow you enough time to safely cross the road.
If I am a slow walker, will I still have enough time to get across?
The timing of pedestrian crossings is typically calculated using a walking speed of 1 to 1.2 metres per second, a comfortable walking speed for the average person, including children and seniors. When crossing, you may see the flashing “Don't Walk” signal but there will be enough time for you to finish crossing.
If you have an issue at a specific intersection, please contact us by phone at 905-335-7777 or by email and describe the location and nature of your issue.
Why doesn't the “Walk” signal appear every time the traffic signal turns green?
In many intersections across the city, the “Walk” signal only appears when you push the button. This button is usually located on a post near the intersection. Always press the pushbutton before crossing the intersection to give yourself enough time to cross.
Street lights
To report a burnt out or damaged light or other issue with streetlights, you can submit an online request with Service Burlington or contact us by phone at 905-335-7777 or by email.