MOVEBR Program Installing First New Pedestrian Activated Mid-Block Crossing Signal

The MOVEBR Program continues to bring new technology to its signalization system with the installation of one of the first Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons (PHBs) in East Baton Rouge Parish. This signal uses a pedestrian-activated sequence of yellow and red lights to stop traffic and allow pedestrians or bicyclists to safely cross a road at marked mid-block crosswalks.

The new signal is under construction at Bluebonnet Boulevard and Springpark Avenue, near a high-traffic residential area. Learn how these signals work here:

• Motorists traveling on Bluebonnet Boulevard will see the beacons light up when a pedestrian or bicyclist has pressed the activation button on the sidewalk indicating a need to cross the street.
• The beacon will flash a yellow light, followed by a solid yellow, then a solid red when drivers must stop.
• The beacon will provide a countdown for the pedestrian to cross, then begin flashing red, when drivers can proceed with caution if the crosswalk is clear.
• The beacon remains dark when it is not activated by a pedestrian, allowing the traffic to proceed without delays.
   

PHB signals reduce traffic delays by only stopping vehicles when needed for a crossing and significantly improve safety by reducing pedestrian and vehicle crashes, according to the Federal Highway Administration.

PHBs are ideal for mid-block crossings, like Bluebonnet Boulevard and Springpark Avenue, a higher-speed roadway where pedestrians need a safer way to cross. BREC is also in the process of installing PHBs on Choctaw Drive, Chippewa Street, Scenic Highway, and Mohican Street. East Baton Rouge Parish continues to employ new technology to improve safety for all road users and keep traffic moving.