Skip to Content
Streetsblog New York City home
Streetsblog New York City home
Log In

A leading pedestrian interval, or LPI, lights up the pedestrian signal a few seconds before vehicular traffic gets the green. This gives pedestrians
a head start into the intersection and makes it less likely that they will be hit by vehicles turning into the crosswalk. LPI's are also known by their sassier nickname, Pedestrian Head Start. But in my view the best variation on what LPI stands for comes from Christine Berthet of the Hell's Kitchen Neighborhood Association, who proposes "Life Preserving Interval."

Transportation Alternatives has recently begun a push to make these more common in New York City. Here's hoping our video (featuring some nice visuals from TOPP's own Carly Clark) can help argue the case.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog New York City

Policy Change: NYPD Will Write Criminal Summonses, Not Traffic Tickets, for Cyclists

Quietly, the NYPD has changed its policy and will now make criminal cases against cyclists who go through red lights, a change that will have predictable and unpredictable ramifications.

May 2, 2025

Decision 2025: Our Mayoral Questionnaire Begins … With a Question on Traffic

Question 1: Now that congestion pricing is working, how can we take full advantage of its traffic-busting qualities? Let's hear from the top candidates...

May 2, 2025

Supporters Rally, But Delivery Workers Stay Home Amid Deportation Fears

Vulnerable immigrant delivery workers avoided a rally for better pay on May Day.

May 2, 2025

Friday Video: Could Speed Limiter Tech Stop Crashes Before They Happen?

Southern Brooklyn is still reeling from the tragic vehicular killing of a mother and two of her kids on Ocean Parkway on March 29.

May 2, 2025

Friday’s Headlines: Such a Busy Week Edition

If you missed any of these stories, please go back and read them. Plus other news.

May 2, 2025
See all posts