Construction will begin the week of June 8 for the City of Folsom’s flashing yellow arrow pilot program on Natoma Street. The new signal operations are expected to begin as early as mid-July.

The pilot program will add a fourth signal section with a flashing yellow arrow at four intersections along Natoma Street: Prison Road, Wales Drive, Stafford Street, and Coloma Street. The flashing yellow arrow will allow drivers to turn left after yielding to oncoming traffic and pedestrians, helping improve traffic flow and reduce delays.

Drivers will continue to see the standard red, yellow, and green signal indications. The new flashing yellow arrow provides an additional signal phase, giving drivers another opportunity to turn left when it is safe to do so and opposing through traffic has a green light.

Construction impacts are expected to be minimal. Work will take place during daytime hours and will include temporary left-turn lane closures at one intersection at a time. Each intersection is expected to require three to four days of work. During construction, signals may be placed in flashing mode, requiring drivers to come to a complete stop before proceeding when safe.

Flashing yellow arrows are already used in nearby communities, including Roseville and Elk Grove. The Folsom Public Works Department will monitor the pilot program’s results and share findings to help determine whether the program should be expanded citywide.