The N.Y.P.D. mechanical pedestrian signal box

[M3019C LPS20]

Before the first "DONT WALK" and "WALK" units appeared in New York City, the N.Y.P.D. thought about the idea of a device to control the movement of a pedestrian. Pedestrian safety was as important as it still is today. Ideas were thought of, and some primitive pedestrian signals were built and tested. They ultimately, though, resulted in failures, but it is interesting to learn about them. One in particular was designed and installed by the N.Y.P.D., and it was a small mechanical box. The inside likely had a rollsign for the indications of "STOP" and "WALK." It operated with a traffic signal, so "WALK" appeared with green. In the caution phase (dark-out period), the indications changed, and pedestrians were not to cross. "STOP" was then illuminated with red. The device was attached to a short Union Metal pole. On New Year's eve, in 1940, the first four were installed at W. 45th St. and Times Sq. in Manhattan. Shortly after New Year's day 1941, then N.Y.P.D. commissioner Mr. Valentine requested 11 additional units to be installed at other intersections, where pedestrian volume and accidents were high. Further observations were made, and the device was eventually deemed a flop. All 15 were removed soon after. Below, are three photographs of these early pedestrian signals. The first two are from W. 45th St. and Times Sq., while the third one was located on Jerome Av. in the Bronx. All rights belong to NYC.gov/records.