A Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB), also known as a High-Intensity Activated Crosswalk (HAWK) beacon, is a traffic control device used to facilitate safe pedestrian crossings at midblock locations or uncontrolled intersections. It is designed to provide pedestrians with a protected crossing while minimizing traffic delays when there is low pedestrian activity.
How They Work
PHBs typically consist of two red lenses above a single yellow lens, mounted on a mast arm or pole located at the side of the road. When activated by a pedestrian or cyclist, the beacon displays alternating flashing red lights, signaling drivers to stop and yield the right-of-way to pedestrians. After a designated period, the beacon transitions to a solid red indication, allowing pedestrians to cross safely. Once the pedestrian phase ends, the beacon turns off, and traffic resumes its normal flow.
Brief History
The Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon was developed as a solution to improve pedestrian safety at midblock crossings, where traditional traffic signals were not feasible due to lower pedestrian volumes. The concept originated in Tucson, Arizona, in the late 1990s and was further refined and standardized by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) in the early 2000s.
Example of Uses
PHBs have been successfully deployed in various urban and suburban environments across the United States and other countries. They are commonly installed at locations where pedestrian activity is high, but a traditional traffic signal is not warranted due to lower vehicular traffic volumes.
Examples of uses include busy pedestrian corridors, school zones, transit stops, and areas with limited sight distance or high vehicle speeds.In recent years, PHBs have gained popularity as an effective tool for improving pedestrian safety and reducing traffic conflicts, particularly in areas with mixed land uses and high pedestrian demand. Their flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and ability to enhance pedestrian visibility make them a valuable addition to transportation agencies’ toolbox for improving pedestrian accommodations and promoting multimodal transportation.
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Last Updated on 1 year by pinc