Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon
New Pedestrian Activated Mid-Block Crossing Signals Make Busy Streets Safer for Pedestrians
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.
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.
The new signal is under construction at Bluebonnet Boulevard and Springpark Avenue, in a high-traffic residential area. Here’s how it works:
- The signal remains dark when the sidewalk is not in use, allowing the traffic to proceed without delays.
- When a pedestrian or bicyclist presses the activation button near the sidewalk indicating a need to cross the street, motorists traveling on Bluebonnet Boulevard will see the signal light up.
- The signal will flash a yellow light, followed by a solid yellow, then a solid red when drivers must stop.
- The pedestrians are provided a countdown to cross the street, then the signal will begin flashing red. If the crosswalk is clear, drivers can proceed with caution.
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 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.
