The Department of Transportation will install a new traffic signal and other safety improvements at the intersection of Sixth and Taylor streets. These new safety features will better accommodate people walking, biking, and traveling in vehicles through the intersection by minimizing potential conflicts.

The project will add several solutions to improve the visibility and safety of pedestrians, expand accessibility for all users, and enhance vehicle safety. These improvements include the following:

• Curb Bulb-Outs – More sidewalk space at the corners to reduce pedestrian crossing distance, improve pedestrian visibility, and reduce vehicle speeds
• Accessible Pedestrian System (APS) – Audible and physical pedestrian pushbuttons that help visually-impaired users cross the road safely;
• Protected Left Turns – Signalization of left turns on Taylor to enable safer and easier turns
• Leading Pedestrian Interval (LPI) – A signal timing change to allow pedestrians time to begin crossing ahead of vehicles, establish themselves in the crosswalk, and be more visible to drivers

Project Timeline & Community Engagement Efforts

• November 30, 2022 – Signal activation/project's beneficial use
• November 29, 2021 – Construction begins
• September 15, 2021 – Community meeting to share information on construction schedules
• September 17, 2020 – Presented and received business owners’ input at the Japantown Business Association Meeting
• September 16, 2020 – Presented and received community input at the Japantown Neighborhood Association Meeting

Previous Safety Improvement Projects

• January 2013 – Installed Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) at 6th and Taylor streets
• January 2019 – Installed median refuge and additional flashing beacon

Updates

Read our blog post to learn more about the Sixth and Taylor project. 

Resources

• Sixth and Taylor project plan

Contact

If you have any questions or comments about the Sixth and Taylor project, please reach out to Anna Le at anna.le@sanjoseca.gov.