Review of Green Man Timings at Pedestrian Crossings

The Green Man crossing times at pedestrian crossings are determined based on the crossing distance and the walking speed of a pedestrian.

The crossing time at a pedestrian crossing is reviewed when there are changes that affect these factors. For example, when a road is widened and the crossing distance increases, the Green Man crossing time is increased to ensure pedestrians have sufficient time to cross. Additionally, at pedestrian crossings within Silver Zones and Friendly Streets, where there are higher proportions of seniors and young families, the crossing times are increased, so that pedestrians will have additional time to cross at a more comfortable pace.

Pedestrian crossings that are frequently used by seniors or persons with disabilities, for example, near polyclinics and markets, also have the Green Man Plus scheme. When these pedestrians tap their concession cards on the reader, the crossing time will be increased for the next Green Man cycle.

Thank you, Sir. I have one supplementary question. I thank the Senior Parliamentary Secretary for his replies. The context of this Parliamentary Question is because on a walkabout visit to the Teck Ghee area in Ang Mo Kio, I had feedback from residents who told me that they felt a particular crossing near the market was not long enough for them. And I went to observe it and it turned out that indeed, after tapping the card, there were a couple of seniors who did still have problems making it across to the other side in time.

My supplementary question to the Senior Parliamentary Secretary is, does the Land Transport Authority (LTA) perhaps consult relevant agencies or authorities with their experience in gerontology to ascertain for residents of a certain age what the appropriate time, the adequate time would be for them to cross a certain distance when the Green Man is on?

Mr Speaker, all pedestrian crossings have a steady Green Man duration of about six to 10 seconds. And then, the remaining crossing time is calculated based on the distance of the pedestrian crossing. Then, we use a typical walking speed of about one metre per second to calculate the duration needed. This is also taking reference from other international standards. We make adjustments for a smaller Asian build as well. But we also take into account that the total time allocated for pedestrian crossing will also affect other traffic movements. So, it is a balance of vehicular traffic as well as pedestrian speed and comfort.

We will take the feedback and re-look at that particular crossing that the Member has highlighted and see how we can increase the crossing time to ensure safety and comfort for his residents.