The signal at the High Trestle Trail crossing at West 1st Street is called a HAWK pedestrian Signal.
"HAWK" stands for High-intensity Activated crosswalk. It is intended to provide a signalized crossing for pedestrians while reducing delay to vehicular traffic.
While it looks similar to a traditional pedestrian signal, the HAWK operates a little differently. When not in use, vehicle signals remain dark, allowing vehicular traffic to proceed without stopping. A pedestrian pushing the button begins a sequence of four different light combinations:
- First, the signal begins flashing yellow to indicate to drivers that a pedestrian is waiting to enter the crosswalk.
- This is followed by a steady yellow indication, advising drivers to stop, if safe to do so (just like a traditional traffic signal).
- The signal then turns solid red, requiring drivers to stop at the stop bar.
- Finally, the signal will flash red indicating that drivers must stop first, but may proceed with caution if the street is clear - the same as they would at a traditional signal operating with flashing red lights. The signal will then return to dark.
During these sequences the pedestrians will see the same indications they see at a traditional traffic signal: Hand symbol (Don't Walk), Walking Person symbol (Walk), and Flashing Hand symbol with countdown timer. For a visual representation of these signals, please download the HAWK Pedestrian Signal Infographic (PDF).