Imagine stepping into a busy intersection, unsure if it’s safe to cross because the traffic lights are confusing and there’s no clear signal for pedestrians. That’s the daily reality for many in Oakland’s Fifth Avenue and North Dithridge Street intersection—a place where close calls and accidents have become all too common. But change is on the horizon, and it’s about time. Pittsburgh’s Department of Mobility and Infrastructure (DOMI) is set to invest over $800,000 in state grant funding to transform this hazardous crossroads into a safer space for everyone. But here’s where it gets interesting: the money for these upgrades comes from fines collected through PennDOT’s Automated Red Light Enforcement (ARLE) program, turning reckless driving into a force for good.
For pedestrians like Ryan Marini, the current setup is a nightmare. “There’s no walk lights,” Marini explains. “So I’m standing there thinking, ‘Am I supposed to walk? Or not?’ It’s scary because I could get hit at any moment.” Many others echo this sentiment, admitting they often take risks just to cross. “We kind of just go when we want to and hope nobody hits us,” says Alexis Helsel. This isn’t just inconvenient—it’s dangerous. The intersection has seen multiple accidents, including a 2020 incident where a 94-year-old woman was struck by an ACCESS bus.
But here’s where it gets controversial: while most agree these upgrades are long overdue, some argue that the ARLE program itself is flawed, penalizing drivers unfairly. What do you think? Is this a fair trade-off for safer streets?
The planned improvements are comprehensive and designed to address the intersection’s most pressing issues. LED street lighting will enhance visibility, larger traffic signals will make it easier for drivers to obey the rules, and concrete bump-outs will shorten crossing distances, giving pedestrians more time to navigate safely. Perhaps the most exciting addition is the countdown pedestrian signals with audible alerts—a feature that’s already proven popular in other parts of the city. “They just did that by Hillman, and it was really nice,” says Asha Vellody. “It has a four-way cross, and it yells at us when to walk. It’s perfect.”
And this is the part most people miss: these changes aren’t just about convenience—they’re about saving lives. As Aletha Gajula points out, “The weather’s getting warmer, everyone’s walking more, and these are such busy streets for students. I think 100% this could save lives.”
Mayor Corey O’Connor emphasizes the broader vision behind these upgrades: “Our roads need to be safe for everyone, whether you’re on the sidewalk, in a car, on a bike, or on a bus.” City Councilperson Erika Strassburger adds, “This award is a perfect testament to the ARLE program’s impact on mobility and street safety. I’m thrilled for the state’s contribution and proud to have brought this technology to Pittsburgh.”
Pedestrians are already expressing gratitude, with many hoping these changes will spread to other Oakland intersections. The city assures us that more improvements are on the way, funded by the very fines collected from red light violations.
So, here’s the question: Are these upgrades enough to make our streets truly safe? And is the ARLE program a fair way to fund them? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this conversation is far from over.
