The problem is that the sensors int he road are located beyond the thick white "stop" line. In order for them to actually recognize that a car is waiting, you have to pass that line and stop behind the crosswalk instead. Last time after a little honking the people in front of me actually moved up far enough for the sensors to feel the weight of a car...and voila! Immediately the light changed. Whoever placed the sensors there clearly didn't put much thought into it.