For those who frequently drive through the intersection of Ruth Drive and Old Conejo Road in Newbury Park, Thousand Oaks, the experience is often frustrating and time-consuming. The current traffic light setup includes a dedicated left-turn signal with a red arrow that only turns green after a lengthy wait. This signal configuration is causing unnecessary delays and driver frustration, leading to unsafe driving behaviors like turning on a red arrow out of sheer impatience.

The inefficient light cycle can be improved by replacing the current red arrow with a yellow flashing arrow for left turns onto Ruth Drive from Old Conejo Road. This simple change would allow drivers to turn when it is safe to do so, thus reducing waiting times and improving the overall flow of traffic through this busy intersection.

According to the Federal Highway Administration, permissive left-turn signals, such as flashing yellow arrows, have been proven to improve traffic efficiency, reduce congestion, and decrease the likelihood of collisions. By adopting this measure, we not only enhance driver satisfaction but also contribute to a safer driving environment for everyone.

Traffic counts indicate that Old Conejo Road carries approximately 981 vehicles per hour during peak evening travel, with over 70 vehicles making left turns onto Ruth Drive in that same period. In addition, four collisions have been recorded at this intersection over a 3.5-year span. While this rate may not yet qualify the location as a high-collision site under state thresholds, it reflects ongoing safety challenges. Implementing a flashing left-turn arrow would provide drivers with a protected yet flexible opportunity to complete their turn, thereby reducing delays and improving overall traffic flow. Research has shown that flashing left-turn arrows help minimize red-light running and reduce the likelihood of left-turn related accidents, making this improvement a practical, data-supported safety enhancement for the corridor.

We call on the City of Thousand Oaks and Ventura County Traffic Engineering to consider this small yet impactful adjustment. Implementing a flashing yellow arrow could significantly improve daily commutes and reduce unnecessary idling, which in turn can help lower vehicle emissions in our community.

Join us in urging local authorities to make this necessary change. Sign this petition today to help enhance road safety and traffic flow at the intersection of Ruth and Old Conejo Road. Together, we can make Newbury Park a more efficient and safer place to drive.