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10-02-08 Release: New pedestrian signal installed east of Chaparral & 78th Street
Oct. 2, 2008
Contact: Annie DeChance, Transportation, (480) 312-2526
New pedestrian signal installed east of Chaparral & 78th Street
The City of Scottsdale is installing the first of several experimental “HAWK” pedestrian signals at Chaparral Road and 78th Street.
The new HAWK (or High-intensity Activated crosswalk) is being studied locally and nationally as an alternative to a traditional traffic signal; it uses a combination of flashing yellow and red lights that are visible to drivers.
Scottsdale will be installing the first HAWK on Chaparral Road just east of 78th Street on Tuesday, Oct. 7. The HAWK will provide a protected crossing to address neighborhood concerns about pedestrian activity.
The HAWK is normally in an “off” position until it’s activated by someone wanting to cross a busy street.
When a pedestrian wishes to cross the street, they push a button and the signal begins with a flashing yellow light that warns drivers approaching the crosswalk to slow down.
The flashing yellow light is followed by a solid yellow light, telling drivers to prepare to stop.
The signal then changes to a solid red for the drivers to stop at the crosswalk, and the pedestrian gets a walk signal.
The solid red signal converts to a flashing red after a few seconds, allowing drivers to proceed when safe to do so.
You can find more information on how to use a HAWK on-line at: www.scottsdaleaz.gov/traffic/hawk
Scottsdale is planning to install HAWKs at trail crossings at Pima and Dixileta by January 2009 and Pima and Jomax by Spring 2009.
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