How long is the longest traffic light?

The Five-and-a-Half-Minute Wait: Unveiling America’s Longest Traffic Light

We’ve all been there. The agonizing crawl to a red light, the ticking clock of impatience, the silent prayer for a quick change. But what about the light that tests the limits of even the most seasoned commuter’s patience? What about the light that demands not seconds, but minutes of unwavering stillness? West Milford, New Jersey, holds the answer.

Nestled in the picturesque, yet sometimes frustrating, landscape of northern New Jersey, sits an intersection that challenges the very definition of “traffic signal.” At the junction of Route 23 and Clinton Avenue, a seemingly innocuous intersection holds a not-so-secret claim to fame: it boasts what is arguably the longest traffic light cycle in the United States. It’s not just one protracted light, however. This record-breaking wait is the result of a pair of traffic signals, working in tandem to impose a combined stop of approximately five and a half minutes.

Imagine: five and a half minutes of staring at a solid red. That’s roughly the time it takes to brew a decent pot of coffee, walk a brisk mile, or watch a short film. For drivers navigating this particular juncture, it’s enough time to contemplate the existential dread of commuting, perhaps pen a short story about their frustration, or maybe just quietly seethe.

While the exact mechanics behind such an extended cycle aren’t publicly available, it’s likely a function of complex traffic patterns and pedestrian flow. Route 23, a major artery, carries significant traffic volume, and Clinton Avenue, while smaller, undoubtedly contributes to the intricate dance of vehicles and pedestrians needing to safely cross. The extended wait may be a necessary evil, ensuring the safety and efficient movement of all road users during peak hours.

Whatever the reasoning, the five-and-a-half-minute wait at this intersection has become a local legend, a rite of passage for anyone traversing this part of New Jersey. It’s a testament to the sometimes unpredictable nature of modern infrastructure and a reminder that even in the age of technology, sometimes the simplest things – like waiting for a light to turn green – can test the limits of our patience. So, next time you’re stuck at a seemingly endless red light, remember the commuters of West Milford, and count yourself lucky your wait isn’t quite so…lengthy.

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