Pedestrian hybrid beacon crosswalk system (PHB) or high-intensity activated crosswalk (HAWK).

PDFTech Report2014-102011-R-03CrosswalksPedestrian trafficTraffic control devicesTraffic flowBefore and after studiesTraffic speedYieldingVermontVermont. Agency of Transportation. Research and Development SectionLincoln, OliviaTremblay, Jason P.Vermont. Agency of Transportation. Materials and Research SectionUnited States. Federal Highway AdministrationUS Transportation CollectionThe Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon Crosswalk (PHB) is a type of traffic control system, used to aidpedestrians safely crossing the street and to regulate traffic flow. This study examines thesuccess of the first PHB installed in the state of Vermont. Erected in Colchester, VT, the areais noted for its high traffic flow, as it connects the Fanny Allen Hospital to several traveldestination points across VT Route 15. By measuring yielding compliance, approach speedand advance speed, this study seeks to monitor the safety and success of the PedestrianHybrid Beacon Crosswalk over a 3-year period.After analyzing the results from the speed study, the Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon Crosswalkhas proven more effective, and therefore safer, than having no system in place. Followinginstallation of the PHB, yielding compliance increased by 18% on average, and an 83%increase was found in the number of vehicles slowing down as they approach within 300 feetof the crosswalk. Another pedestrian study will be performed in the future to determine if thesystem provides long-term benefits once drivers become used to the system