Here's an intersection where I routinely use the left through lane on my bike to safely reach the left turn pocket for the next intersection:

http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Cresce...02929&t=k&z=18

I do this for either direction, eastbound and westbound, when I want to turn left at the next intersection. Starting from the left through lane is especially important if this signal is red, since once the traffic builds up it would be difficult to merge left across multiple lanes when the signal turns green. The distance from the intersection to the beginning of the following left turn pocket is fairly short, so I don't delay anyone for more than a few seconds, if at all.

Note that the next median-crossable intersection to the east is non-signalized, and the next intersection to the west has no pedestrian button or signals. Thus, turning left as a pedestrian really isn't a practical or very safe option when turning left at either of those intersections when traffic is heavy.