Durham Identified Intersections for Signal Removal

The city has launched a 90-day trial to replace traffic signals with stop signs at 22 local intersections.

Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in City Hall

Bold flat-color vector editorial illustration showing a stylized traffic signal and empty octagonal road sign plate at a street corner. — Durham officials have initiated a 90-day trial to replace traffic signals with stop signs at 22 local intersections to improve safety. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you support removing traffic signals at local intersections to improve safety and reduce maintenance costs?

Durham officials have identified 22 intersections for potential traffic signal removal, citing low traffic volumes that lead to driver non-compliance. Each location will undergo a 90-day trial period where signals are set to flash mode and supplemented by temporary stop signs.

Why it matters

The city aims to improve road safety, as studies indicate that removing signals at these low-traffic sites could decrease overall crash numbers. Furthermore, the initiative seeks to reduce municipal infrastructure costs by moving away from expensive electronic traffic controls.

Installing an all-way stop costs approximately $20,000, while maintaining a single traffic signal costs between $5,000 and $10,000 annually. The city is currently collecting resident feedback on these changes via an online survey.

The details

Crews are transitioning identified intersections into the trial phase by placing existing signals into flash mode. Temporary stop signs are being installed to manage traffic flow during this 90-day assessment period.

The intersections will remain in a 90-day trial period to evaluate signal removal impacts.

Political Context

Opponents of the initiative, including some neighborhood associations, have raised concerns regarding the potential for increased confusion during the transition. Critics argue that stop signs may not provide the same level of intersection control as signals, particularly during peak travel hours.

Residents in the affected areas should prepare for new stop sign requirements at these 22 intersections during the trial period. The city is actively soliciting public input, meaning residents can directly influence whether these temporary measures become permanent.

The takeaway

The move reflects a growing trend in urban planning to prioritize efficiency and cost-savings at low-volume intersections. Drivers are encouraged to pay closer attention to signage at these 22 sites while the city collects data on traffic behavior and safety outcomes.