High Intensity Activated Crosswalk (HAWK) Beacon Comes to Pueblo Neighborhood

The Colorado Department of Transportation, in partnership with the City of Pueblo, has installed a modified High Intensity Activated Crosswalk (HAWK) beacon, also known as a Hybrid Pedestrian Beacon (PHB), at the intersection of Lincoln St. (CO 96) and Belmont Ave.

The new traffic signal, which helps pedestrians safely cross busy streets, is the first of its kind in Pueblo.

The modified HAWK beacon, which replaced the pedestrian signal between Acero and Belmont, will provide better visibility, improve safety and allow more direct access to Heritage Elementary. CDOT and the City of Pueblo anticipate the signal will be complete and operational early this fall.

“The HAWK Beacon will improve connectivity for local residents who live in the north and south side subdivisions, along Lincoln St,” explained Matt Jagow, CDOT Traffic Resident Engineer.

PHBs have been shown to significantly reduce pedestrian crashes. A Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) study in 2010 found that PHBs can reduce pedestrian crashes by 69 percent and total crashes by 29 percent. PHB provides a clear message motorists must stop to allow pedestrians to cross the street.

How does the HAWK work?

The signals remain dark until activated by a pedestrian. When a person wishes to cross the street, a button is pushed activating the signal. The new signal will go through a series of yellow and red sequences, requiring motorists to stop for pedestrians. The signal will then go dark, allowing motorists to continue through the intersection, until the button is activated again.

YouTUBE video of HAWK Beacon in Portland

CDOT PROJECT INFORMATION

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