Police urge four-way-stop rules as signals go dark on E. Bridge and E. Utica
The Oswego power outage has darkened traffic lights on the city’s east side along E. Bridge Street and E. Utica Street, disrupting key east–west corridors and increasing crash risk. Police ask drivers to treat every non-functioning signal as a four-way stop unless officers direct otherwise, ensuring safe passage through these busy routes.
What happened and where
E. Bridge Street, part of NY Route 104, and E. Utica Street lost power simultaneously, causing multiple signals to go dark. WSYR-TV reports the Oswego City Police Department issued an alert advising motorists that intersections across these arteries would operate under stop-sign rules. E. Bridge Street handles regional traffic as a segment of Route 104, while E. Utica Street serves local neighborhoods and businesses, making this outage disruptive for commuters and residents alike.
What police are asking drivers to do
“Drivers are asked to treat all intersections with non-functioning lights as a four-way stop unless told otherwise by law enforcement,” stated the Oswego City Police Department. This directive aligns with New York State law requiring full stops and adherence to right-of-way at inoperative signals.
What to do if a traffic light is out (featured snippet)
When traffic lights fail, stop as if encountering a stop sign. Proceed in order of arrival or yield to the right if two vehicles arrive simultaneously, unless directed differently by a traffic officer.
Quick safety checklist for drivers
• Always come to a complete stop at the marked line or crosswalk; avoid inching forward.
• Yield first to any vehicle that arrived before yours; if you arrive simultaneously, yield to the vehicle on your right.
• Establish eye contact with other drivers to confirm right-of-way before proceeding.
• Reduce speed well in advance on E. Bridge Street and E. Utica Street to accommodate unexpected stops.
• Stay alert for pedestrians and cyclists, who may also be navigating dark intersections.
Pedestrian and cyclist tips
• Cross only after confirming vehicles have stopped completely and drivers acknowledge you.
• Avoid stepping out from between large vehicles where motorists might not see you at a dark signal.
• Cyclists should dismount or ride predictably, obeying the same stop-sign rules applied to cars.
What we know about the outage
National Grid’s Upstate NY outage map shows hundreds of customers affected near Oswego’s east side. While the exact cause remains unconfirmed, utility crews are inspecting equipment to determine whether the failure stems from equipment malfunction or weather damage. Restoration times will be posted once assessments conclude.
How to check status and get updates
• View the National Grid Upstate NY Outage Map for live outage data and Estimated Times of Restoration (ETR).
• Follow the Oswego City Police Department on Facebook or X (Twitter) for real-time traffic advisories.
• Monitor local news outlets such as WSYR-TV for official statements and updates.
If you observe downed wires or damaged signal poles, call 911 immediately and maintain a safe distance.
Why this outage is especially disruptive
E. Bridge Street’s designation as NY Route 104 makes it a major corridor for regional travel and freight. Dark signals here can trigger backups, unsafe turning maneuvers, and minor collisions. E. Utica Street’s role in linking residential areas, schools, and businesses amplifies local disruptions, affecting daily routines and deliveries.
What you can do now
• Plan alternate routes through less congested side streets, allowing extra time for your journey.
• Treat each dark signal as a four-way stop unless directed otherwise by officers on site.
• Keep headlights on during low-light or inclement conditions to improve visibility at uncontrolled intersections.
• Bookmark the National Grid outage map for quick reference and check periodically for ETR updates.
The bottom line
Traffic signals on Oswego’s east side along E. Bridge Street and E. Utica Street remain offline due to a power outage. Observing four-way-stop procedures, exercising patience, and staying informed will help maintain safety and traffic flow. Please share this article with friends and neighbors, revisit for updates, and drive responsibly.
