What is the importance of phase gap mentioned in relation to Laurel Avenue?

The importance of the phase gap in relation to Laurel Avenue pertains to pedestrian safety. A phase gap refers to the period during which traffic lights are switched to favor pedestrians, allowing them to cross streets safely. Understanding and implementing an effective phase gap is crucial in urban planning because it ensures that pedestrians have adequate time to cross intersections without having to navigate through moving vehicles. This contributes significantly to reducing the risk of accidents and enhances the overall safety of pedestrians, especially in busy urban areas like those surrounding Laurel Avenue. It is essential to balance vehicular traffic flow while prioritizing safe pedestrian access, making the phase gap a critical element in traffic signal design for protecting those who walk in the vicinity.