Taipei City Council proposes illuminated traffic signals and crosswalk lighting; Mayor Chiang Wan-an agrees to evaluate

(Central News Agency, Liu Chien-pang, Chen Yu-ting, Taipei, June 2) Taipei City Councilor Yen Jo-fang proposed installing illuminated traffic signals at major intersections and testing crosswalk lighting in alleys to improve safety for vulnerable groups, wheelchair users, and the elderly. Mayor Chiang Wan-an responded that the city will evaluate the proposal and have the Department of Transportation plan for pilot implementation.

Mayor Chiang attended the city council's general interpellation session this afternoon. DPP Councilor Yen pointed out data showing that pedestrians often cause traffic accidents while using smartphones, citing South Korea's use of technology to manage this issue.

Yen noted that South Korea has installed traffic signals on the ground with guidelines for slip resistance, waterproofing, and automatic dimming. Since other cities in Taiwan, such as Taichung and Chiayi, have introduced similar policies, she suggested that Taipei evaluate pilot implementation at major intersections.

Mayor Chiang replied that he would order relevant departments to evaluate the proposal and design a plan suitable for Taipei's roads. He emphasized that while they will refer to international and domestic examples, the pilot will focus on improving safety for vulnerable groups and the elderly, not just smartphone users.

Yen further asked about public dissatisfaction with unclear road markings and signals, especially at night or in rainy weather. She suggested adopting the Japanese model of installing integrated illuminated signals in alleys and adding auxiliary lighting to crosswalks.

Mayor Chiang supported the proposal, stating that the Department of Transportation will select accident-prone alleys or intersections for pilot testing. He added that the city already adjusts road lighting based on weather, such as turning on streetlights earlier and turning them off later during winter.