Manteca is getting its first traffic signal with a yellow flashing left turn arrow.

Similar to signals at a number of Modesto intersections, it will be put in place in the next month for those making a left turn from northbound Main Street to westbound Center Street in downtown.

It is the latest in a series of street-related improvements in central Manteca aimed at improving safety and/or traffic flow.

The others are:

*Flashing red LED lights on all sides of the stop signs along Crom Street along the north side of the municipal golf course to combat the tendency of some drivers not stopping.

*Two new speed lumps on Edison Street between Main Street and Powers Avenue.

*A new traffic signal being activated at North Main Street and Jason Street by Golden West School.

*A new four-way stop at Center Street and Sherman Avenue.

*The city’s second high visibility HAWK pedestrian signal on Moffat Boulevard at Garfield Avene by Manteca High.

Mayor Gary Singh said the flashing left turn arrow is designed to reduce congestion and keeping traffic moving given the turn pocket from northbound Main to head west on Center Street has limited stacking capacity.

A flashing yellow left-turn arrow means you can turn left after yielding to oncoming traffic and pedestrians. It is like an unprotected turn: wait for a safe gap in opposing traffic before proceeding with caution.

Also keep in mind the following:

*Steady Green Arrow: You have a protected left turn; oncoming traffic is stopped.

*Steady Yellow Arrow: The turn signal is about to change. Prepare to stop or complete your turn if you are already in the intersection.

*Steady Red Arrow: You must come to a complete stop and cannot turn left.

To contact Dennis Wyatt, email dwyatt@mantecabulletin.com