Citation

Nassi R, Barton M. APWA Reporter 2008; 75(6): 44-49.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2008, American Public Works Association)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

In this article the author discusses a pedestrian crossing treatment designed to enforce compliance and establish uniform standards. The new system, known as the High intensity Activated crossWalK (HAWK) Crossing, favors a pedestrian beacon that uses a flashing red light over a yellow light and is designed to balance the needs of the pedestrians with the delay of the driver in order to increase compliance rates. Issues in need of resolution surrounding the new device are noted, including dark beacons, potential driver confusion, proliferation of devices, and uniformity. The article also notes the accident experience of the system over the course of five years, including a follow-up study conducted by the City of Tucson, Arizona. Finally, the article addresses the future of the pedestrian crossing treatment, including an experimental modified device based on a potential decrease in the standard walking speed by the FHWA.