MDOT to study Ironwood US-2 BR/Lowell Street intersection

After studying traffic at three signals on the US-2 Business Route (BR) in Ironwood for about a month, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) also will now study US-2 BR/Lowell Street as a four-way stop. Motorists are urged to use extra caution at these intersections during the study period.

To determine whether three traffic signals on US-2 BR in Ironwood are needed, MDOT placed them in flashing mode for 90 days beginning March 8. Two other intersections – US-2 BR at Ayer Street and at Aurora Street/Suffolk Street – are operating as four-way stops with a flashing red light for all directions. A final determination on all the intersections will be made following the study period.

MDOT will review traffic volumes, delays, back-ups and crash data at the three intersections to determine if the signals are warranted. Preliminary review of the signals suggests the signals do not meet criteria for signals based on traffic volumes, pedestrian volumes, school crossings, crashes, and the overall roadway network.

At the end of the signal study, if the signals are found to be warranted, MDOT will continue to operate and maintain them. However, if the signals are deemed unwarranted, they will be removed. The signals could be reinstalled in the future if traffic patterns were to change and justify their addition.

Fast Facts:

– Traffic signals at three US-2 BR intersections in Ironwood are in flash mode for 90 days.

– Traffic volumes and other criteria will be reviewed to determine if the signals are needed.

– Unwarranted signals have been shown to cause unnecessary delay and increase crashes.