But where's Gene Kelly?

I believe the crosswalk behind the officer is the same one Rainy Day Woman is using albeit the opposite direction as the woman in this photo. Curious which photo was taken first?

[It is the same crosswalk. -tterrace]

Why does he need to direct traffic at an intersection controlled by traffic lights?

That protective gear especially the type you wear while directing traffic in the middle of the street on a dark rainy day should be a bright color.

...of Delano's photographic artistry that he lined up the traffic cop's reflection as he did. And streets were so much slicker then.

I have driven through this intersection more times than I can count. The building on the right is the Wauregan Hotel, which dates to I believe 1855 (and, yes, Lincoln actually did sleep there). It was nearly demolished after falling into disrepair, but was saved. It was completely restored about 15 years ago and now has apartments. The building to the left housed banks for the last 120 years, but as of last year became vacant.

Norwich, like many manufacturing towns in New England, has struggled to find its way again after the businesses closed up shop.

He looks like every Flatfoot in pretty much every 1940's Movie made.

Well, working in the rain! These "rainy" photos are really exquisite.

Something about this photo. One of the best I've seen on Shorpy ever.