What are High-Intensity Activated Crosswalk Signals?

They are commonly referred to as HAWK signals or Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons.  These HAWK signals are traffic devices that are used to assist pedestrians in crossing busy streets. 

Why use a HAWK signal?

HAWK signals provide a safer crossing alternative compared to traditional crosswalks.  They are especially effective on busy streets with mid-block crossings.  Unlike traditional signal crosswalks, the HAWK’s are only used when a pedestrian activates the signal.

HAWK signal timing

When a pedestrian push button is pressed, a call is placed to the HAWK signal controller.  The controller then activates the HAWK signal based on the timing plans of the adjacent traffic signals (stop lights).

The Emmet Street HAWK signal is coordinated and communicates with the timing of the signalized intersection at El Camino Real and Ralston Avenue.  This timing is controlled and maintained by CalTrans.  This coordination allows pedestrians to be served in the safest and most efficient manner possible. But unlike the Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons on Ralston, HAWKS may not activate right away. This adjacent signal coordination could delay activation of the HAWK signal until traffic flow is ready to proceed.  

You might experience what feels like a long wait to cross as a pedestrian at the corner of El Camino Real at Ralston Avenue, the same wait time may be experienced to cross El Camino Real at Emmett Street.  Please be patient and understand that this is for your safety.

Similarly, the Elmer Street HAWK signal communicates with the signalized intersections on Ralston Avenue at Hiller Street and Old County Road.  At this time, the Elmer Street HAWK signal is not coordinated with the Hiller Street or Old County Road signals on Ralston Avenue.  Thus, when the pedestrian push button is pressed, a call is placed to the controller and the HAWK signal is activated.

Activating the HAWK signal

When a pedestrian presses the push button, approaching drivers will see a flashing yellow signal indicating that they should be prepared to stop for pedestrians. The signal then changes to a solid yellow, then a solid red light indicating for drivers to stop. Pedestrians will then be instructed to cross.  When the dual red lights begin to alternate, vehicles must stop for pedestrians, but may proceed if there are no pedestrians in the crosswalk.

The signal will eventually time out and turn dark.  At this stage, traffic should resume their typical movement through the crosswalk.

Where are the HAWK signals?