On Tuesday, September 2, 2025, a new traffic pattern was introduced at the intersection of West Avenue and Poplar Street as the city prepares for the eventual removal of the traffic light. The traffic signal is now on a flashing red pattern and stop signs have been installed.
A flashing red stop light means the same thing as a stop sign: you must come to a complete stop, look for pedestrians and other vehicles, and then proceed only when it is safe to do so and you have the right-of-way. The intersection should be treated like a four-way stop, yielding to other drivers and pedestrians already in or entering the intersection.
Earlier this year staff recommended the removal of unwarranted traffic signals at five locations within the city to improve traffic flow and reduce maintenance costs. The unwarranted signals will be replaced with either two-way stop or four-way stop signs. The five intersections are:
- Fair/Water/Walnut
- West/Poplar
- Poplar/Miami
- South/Ohio
- South/Main
Staff continues to work with the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) on the process to properly remove unwarranted signals.
ODOT uses a warrant system to determine when traffic control signals, like traffic lights, are needed. These warrants are based on factors like traffic volume, pedestrian activity, and the presence of school crossings, among other things.
Unwarranted or improperly placed traffic signals can create several hazards, including increased accidents, delays, and traffic congestion. They can also lead to drivers rerouting to less suitable routes and increased disobedience of signals.