Scranton Will Convert Traffic Signals to Stop Signs
The city will begin a 90-day test of new traffic patterns at 13 downtown intersections starting October 19, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in City Hall
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Scranton will launch a test of new traffic flow patterns on October 19, 2026, which involves converting 13 downtown signalized intersections into stop-sign-controlled crossings. The city will monitor traffic for 90 days to determine if the changes should become permanent.
Why it matters
The shift aims to improve pedestrian safety and vehicle flow through the city center. The pilot follows a 2023 walkability study and city ordinances adopted last year as part of a larger streetscape modernization effort.
The conversion plan involves 13 intersections with a 90-day trial period consisting of 30 days of flashing red lights followed by 60 days of bagged traffic signals. This initiative is supported by a $20.4 million budget for overall downtown streetscape improvements.
The players
Scranton City Council
This local governing body is responsible for adopting ordinances that dictate city streetscape changes and infrastructure policy.
The details
Crews will install stop signs at the 13 designated downtown locations while setting existing signals to flash red during the first month. Following this, the lights will be covered entirely for two months while the city evaluates traffic data to decide if the infrastructure should be permanently removed.
Timeline
A connectivity and walkability study proposed the traffic changes in 2023.
The Scranton City Council adopted the streetscape change ordinances in October 2025.
The test period for the traffic signal conversion begins on October 19, 2026.
Political Context
The signal removal plan is part of an ongoing push by proponents of the 2023 connectivity and walkability study to prioritize pedestrian-first urban design. Critics often cite potential congestion risks and the costs associated with the $20.4 million streetscape overhaul as points of substantive opposition.
Downtown residents and commuters should prepare for new stop-sign-controlled intersections starting October 19, 2026, which may alter daily travel times. Drivers must watch for active signage and modified signals as the city collects data during this 90-day transition period.
The takeaway
The city is prioritizing pedestrian safety over vehicle throughput in a multi-million dollar effort to modernize downtown infrastructure. Residents should observe all new posted signage closely during the transition to ensure compliance with the modified traffic flow.
Further reading
For more information on municipal policy, visit City Hall.
More information
View the official Scranton downtown traffic map and information for details on the intersection changes.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Scranton Times-Tribune.
Live Poll
Do you believe replacing traffic lights with stop signs makes your downtown area safer?
