Project overview
This project will construct a hybrid signal, also known as a High Intensity Activated Crosswalk or HAWK, with a median refuge island creating safer access for pedestrians crossing State Route 503 to and from Prairie High School and the nearby transit stop.
What is a pedestrian hybrid signal?
A pedestrian hybrid signal is a traffic light that helps people cross a road more safely and visibly. This reduces the risk of crashes for everyone on the road, no matter how they choose to travel. Unlike traditional traffic lights, the hybrid signal only turns on when a pedestrian presses the button. If no one is crossing, drivers can keep moving.
The signal uses red and yellow lights. When the yellow lights are flashing, drivers should prepare to stop. A solid yellow light indicates drivers should begin stopping. Solid red means drivers must stop and wait for people crossing the road. When the light is flashing red, drivers must stop and can only continue when it’s safe for everyone, making sure no pedestrians are crossing.
It will also include a refuge island where pedestrians can pause safely in the middle of the road before continuing across the highway which is used by 29,000 vehicles each day.
What to expect
Starting Monday, Jan. 6, contractor crews will begin building a pedestrian hybrid signal on SR 503.
Travelers on SR 503 near Prairie High School and Northeast 119th Street should plan for single lane closures overnight from 8 p.m. to 10 a.m. Work will happen on weekdays only. Crews will also close the sidewalks and shoulders. Pedestrians will use marked detours in the closed lane to continue moving safely along the roadside while the sidewalk is closed.
Image shows location of pedestrian signal installation project. In January 2025, crews will construct a hybrid pedestrian signal, with a median island creating safer access for pedestrians crossing State Route 503 to and from Prairie High School and the nearby transit stop.
