With University of Wyoming students returning to Laramie, more and more people will be crossing Laramie’s streets, and traffic has already seen an increase.

It is for this reason that we are reminding those who have been in Laramie and those who are new to town on exactly how to use the HAWK beacon devices. These are pedestrian crossing devices in which a pedestrian can activate a red light while trying to cross the street. These signals are located at the Third and Shields Streets intersection and the intersection of 19th and Grand.

These beacons function much like conventional signals. The difference is that these are used only for pedestrian crossings.

Here is how it works:

  • The signals REMAIN DARK for traffic unless a pedestrian activates the push-button.
  • When the pedestrian presses the button, approaching drivers will see a FLASHING YELLOW for a few seconds, indicating that they should reduce speed and be prepared to stop for a pedestrian in the crosswalk ahead.
  • The FLASHING YELLOW is followed by a SOLID YELLOW and then by a SOLID RED, requiring drivers to STOP at the stop line.
  • At this time, the pedestrian receives a WALK indication on the associated countdown timer. The pedestrian should look to be certain the crosswalk is clear of traffic, then proceed.
  • At the end of the WALK indication, the pedestrian is displayed a FLASHING DON’T WALK indication and motorist sees an ALTERNATING FLASHING RED.
  • During this period motorists are required to STOP and then proceed once pedestrians have cleared the crosswalk.
  • When the signals are DARK, motorists are free to proceed through the intersection.

See the HAWK beacon on 19th and Grand in action in the video below.

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