The City of Charlotte will become one of the first jurisdictions in the United States to test a new flashing yellow arrow light at an intersection where a circular green indication light would historically be used to direct motorists to turn left after yielding to oncoming traffic. The Charlotte Department of Transportation (CDOT) will install the new signal, approved for use in Charlotte by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), within a few weeks at Johnston Road and I-485.

The new signal display will consist of a steady green arrow, a flashing yellow arrow, a steady yellow arrow, and a steady red arrow. The green arrow protects left-turning traffic from oncoming traffic, and the flashing yellow arrow tells left-turning traffic to first yield to oncoming traffic before turning. The steady yellow arrow and steady red arrow work the same as they always have.

The new light will help to improve safety and reduce traffic delays. Implementation of the new light is a result of research conducted by the National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP) Project 3-54. The program found the flashing yellow arrow to be highly effective at reducing driver confusion. It is seen as a low-cost measure that greatly improves motorist safety in urban areas. The yellow arrow provides a clear distinction between when motorists who are turning their vehicles are protected from oncoming traffic and when they must yield.

Because this is a test, CDOT is required to get FHWA approval anytime this new type of signal is installed. CDOT will evaluate the signals effectiveness at Johnston Road and I-485 before deciding to install signals at other intersections.