The new traffic lights were expected to start operating sooner, but there has been a delay because the lights have to be coordinated with the railroad-crossing system maintained by the Union Pacific Railroad, said John Cherbone, the city public works director.

The construction of the lights and the median has been going on for the last three months.

Bhupinder Phanugreh, who owns a Stop 'N' Save, a convenience store nearby, said that he had lost nearly 10 to 15 percent of business during the construction months.

"It was particularly bad because Sea Gull Way was closed on and off and it was difficult for customers to come into my store," he said.

Phanugreh hoped that the traffic lights would bring him more business. "Let us wait and see," he said.

Across the street, Carl Orr of Colour Shoppe Interiors was delighted that the lights would start functioning soon.

"I have been waiting 30 years for this. My customers can now make a left turn to come to my store," said Orr.

Orr said it would also help slow down the traffic. "Many drivers hurtle past the railway tracks now," he said.

Chad Garton, who owns the Pool Guys, a swimming pool service, repairs and supplies store said, "People have to stop and look. They have a chance to look at the stores now," he said.

Cherbone indicated that landscaping and construction of a median near Sea Gull Way to Prospect Road will start in late summer.

"The new project will cost $ 2.8 million and is funded by Caltrans," he said. That project is expected to be completed by next spring.

"We are also studying Kirkmont Drive to see if a light is needed," said Cherbone.

Puneet Pushkarna, a Saratoga resident, complained about the amount of time it had taken to complete the construction work on the road. "Everything takes longer now. I use the road when I go to Safeway or when I go to drop my son for his piano classes."

"I am going to avoid the road altogether. They do not have a system on Saratoga-Sunnyvale Road where all the signals turn green," said Wendy Glasser, who used the road frequently before.

Cherbone said that the new lights and turn lanes would have a calming effect.