New pedestrian-activated crosswalk on SR 66 in downtown Kingman is now active Motorists should be alert for traffic control change

The first pedestrian-activated signalized crosswalk in Kingman on State Route 66 between Andy Devine Avenue and First Street is now operational, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.

This special type of traffic light is a system of indicator lights and signs that controls vehicle traffic to assist pedestrians in safely crossing a major street or highway at a marked crosswalk that does not have a standard traffic signal. The new device – a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB) – will help pedestrians to safely cross SR 66 by activating a traffic signal that stops approaching vehicles in both directions to allow time for people to cross the highway.

"The new pedestrian crossing and additional intersection improvements will provide a safer and more pleasant visiting experience for area residents, tourists and the traveling public visiting the historic downtown Kingman area,” Frank Marbury, Assistant City Engineer, city of Kingman, said.

In addition to the PHB, construction on the $231,000  project includes a newly paved intersection, sidewalk and ramps. While the signal is the first of its kind in Kingman, a PHB is located in Bullhead City and others are in use in Phoenix and Tucson.

Motorists and pedestrians are urged to become familiar with how a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon operates. Printable instructions may be downloaded at azdot.gov/PHB.

The light is activated after a button is pushed by a pedestrian. Traffic is alerted to stop with a flashing yellow light followed by a solid yellow light and then by two solid red lights, providing motorists with an unmistakable message to stop. At this point, the pedestrian is signaled to walk safely across the street and the associated pedestrian countdown signal indicates how much time is left to cross the street. During this period, motorists are required to stop and remain stopped until pedestrians have finished crossing the street, and then motorists may proceed with caution when the red lights begin to flash alternately and also the crosswalk is clear of pedestrians.

Steps for Activation:

• When there is no pedestrian waiting to cross, drivers see that all indication lights are dark; the pedestrian will see a “DON’T WALK” symbol. A pedestrian who wants to cross the street will need to push the button to activate the system.
• When a pedestrian pushes the button, approaching drivers will see a FLASHING YELLOW light for a few seconds, indicating that they should reduce speed and be prepared to stop. Pedestrians will continue to see a“DON’T WALK” symbol and should wait.
• Drivers will see a STEADY YELLOW light, warning drivers the indication will soon turn to a STEADY RED light. Pedestrians will continue to see the “DON’T WALK” symbol and should continue to wait.
• Drivers will see a STEADY RED light, which requires them to STOP at the stop line. At this point, the pedestrian receives a “WALK” symbol to cross.
• As the pedestrian crosses the street, drivers will see ALTERNATING FLASHING RED lights, indicating that they need to STOP and remain stopped until pedestrians have finished crossing the street. Drivers may proceed with caution if the crosswalk is clear. Pedestrians will see a flashing countdown that indicates how much time they have to cross the street.
• At the end of the flashing countdown, drivers will see that all indication lights are dark; the pedestrian will see a“DON’T WALK” symbol. Drivers may continue to proceed through the crosswalk if it is clear; pedestrians waiting to cross will have to push the button to re-activate the system.

Motorists should be alert for the change in traffic control at the Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon that allows pedestrians to stop vehicles traveling in both directions.

ADOT advises drivers to allow additional time to reach their destinations and to proceed through the work zone with caution, comply with the reduced speed limit, and be alert for construction equipment and personnel.

ADOT works to inform the public about planned highway restrictions, but there is a possibility that unscheduled closures or restrictions may occur. Weather can also affect a project schedule. To stay up-to-date with the latest highway conditions around the state, visit the ADOT Traveler Information Center at www.az511.gov or call 511.

Monsoon season has arrived in Arizona. Don’t drive into dust storms. Remember, Pull Aside, Stay Alive.