THIS HAWK IS A NEW PEDESTRIAN CROSSING SIGNAL
A HAWK beacon is a traffic signal device that assists pedestrians to safely cross busy streets. A High-intensity Activated crossWalK is installed at the corner of Huron Street (I-94 Business Loop) and Third/Chapin streets in downtown Ann Arbor.The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is cooperating with the City of Ann Arbor on this first HAWK-style traffic control device on a state trunkline in Michigan.
How does a HAWK work? The HAWK consists of two components, one oriented to drivers and the other towards pedestrians. Usually, the motorists' signal is dark, indicating that cars may proceed. When a person wishes to cross the street, the pedestrian pushes a button to activate the signal. The new signal will then go through a series of yellow and red sequences, signaling to drivers that they should slow down (yellow), stop (steady red), or proceed if clear (flashing red). Simultaneously, the pedestrian-oriented signal alerts pedestrians when they should wait and when they may safely cross. The countdown allows plenty of time for all pedestrians to cross. During the flashing red phase, cars may proceed through the signal if all pedestrians have cleared the street. The signal will then go dark, allowing motorists to continue through the intersection until the button is activated again.
A public opening celebration of the HAWK signal and the first-ever HAWK Walk was held on Nov. 17, 2010 at 1:30 p.m.
More information on the new HAWK signal is available on MDOT's Web site.
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