An overhead electronic message board is an electronic sign often used on roadways to give travelers information. These signs are controlled from City Hall and display traffic-related information such as:
The boards display current travel times through downtown along three parallel routes:
Traffic signals lose power for many reasons, but there's only one way to drive through an intersection when the signal goes dark. Treat it like a four-way stop, unless a flagger, a police officer, or a firefighter directs you to do otherwise, you are required to stop and yield the right-of-way in accordance with the law. (WA State law RCW 46.61.183.)
Keep in mind that the law says who must yield the right-of-way, it does not give anyone the right-of-way.
Here are the basic right-of-way rules for vehicles approaching all-way stops:
Drivers must do everything possible to keep from striking a pedestrian or another vehicle, regardless of the circumstances.
Use the City’s request management system to report non-emergency issues, make requests, and find answers to common questions.
In case of emergency, call 911.
Report Issue or Make Request