In a city that encourages people to be active, such as using the People Trails system, it’s important that pedestrians and bicyclists feel safe when journeying around Columbus and crossing its streets.
That’s why we think the city’s ongoing campaign to place HAWK signals in areas with high levels of pedestrian and bicyclist activity, to increase safety, is a good idea.
Columbus will install its third high-intensity, pedestrian-activated (HAWK) traffic signal this summer at 17th and Washington streets, a popular area for pedestrians and bicyclists.
The Columbus Board of Public Works and Safety has approved a bid for the installation, and the Columbus Park Foundation is paying the cost of the new signal. It could be in place by late July.
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It will join two other HAWK systems located at the entrance to Mill Race Park and near the Cummins Corporate Office Building.
HAWK signals stop traffic for pedestrians and bicyclists with a red light as they cross the street. When a pedestrian pushes a button, flashing beacons activate. The signal first flashes yellow as a warning to prepare to stop and then turns red.
Columbus also is evaluating whether to install a fourth HAWK signal at 19th Street and Central Avenue, between Donner and Lincoln parks.
These systems greatly increase safety for people on foot or bike as they share space with motorized vehicles. We’re encouraged to see the city keep that in mind with its efforts to ensure the community is bike and pedestrian friendly.
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