Extended crossing times on Shabbat at Skokie intersection

Skokie, Illinois, has implemented extended automatic walk signals on Dempster Street to improve safety for Orthodox Jewish pedestrians on Shabbat. Mayor Ann Tennes, who took office in April 2025, prioritized this change after observing that the previous shorter walk signals, which occur when the crossing button is not pressed, were insufficient for people with wheelchairs and small children. The new system, effective since late April, extends the walk signal duration from 30-40 seconds to 60-65 seconds from late Friday afternoons to early Saturday evenings. Tennes stated, "It's been well received by the community. It's certainly safe." The village also addressed a series of antisemitic incidents by forming a Skokie Faith Leaders Council and holding community discussions and anti-hatred training.