High Intensity Activated Crosswalk

The city of Scottsdale Transportation Department has installed an innovative pedestrian traffic control device at a few intersections to help make crossing safer and easier.

The device -- called a HAWK or High-intensity Activated crossWalK -- provides a protected pedestrian crossing and is as simple to use as a pushing a button.

How the HAWK works

1. The HAWK is normally in an “off” position until it is activated by someone wanting to cross a busy street.
2. When pedestrians wish 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.
3. The flashing yellow light is followed by a solid yellow light, telling drivers to prepare to stop.
4. The signal then changes to a solid red for the drivers to stop at the stop bar, and the pedestrian gets a walk signal.
5. The solid red signal converts to a flashing red after a few seconds, allowing drivers to proceed when safe to do so.

Download the HAWK visual sheet

Currently in use at the following crossings:

• Scottsdale Road between Butherus Drive and Greenway-Hayden Loop
• Pima Road and Dixileta Drive
• Pima Road and Jomax Road
• Chaparral Road just east of 78th Street
• Chaparral Road just west of Miller Road (Arizona Canal crossing)
• McDonald Road just east of Cattletrack Road (Arizona Canal crossing)
• Scottsdale Road and Palm Lane
• Indian Bend Road and McCormick Stillman Rail Road Park
• Hayden Road north of Princess Boulevard
• Thomas Road and 86th Street
• Camelback Road and Saddlebag Trail

Coming soon to the following crossings:

• Highland Avenue between Scottsdale Road and Goldwater Boulevard
• Goldwater Boulevard just west of Marshall Way