City of Tyler Implements New Safety Crossing Feature

TYLER — The City of Tyler activates the first Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon controlled crosswalk in East Texas to enhance the safety of pedestrians crossing at Old Omen to the University of Texas at Tyler. City officials say a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon controlled crosswalk, also known as a High-intensity Activated Crosswalk or “HAWK,” is a special type of hybrid beacon used to assist pedestrians in crossing a street or highway at a marked crosswalk. It was authorized by the current edition of the Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. Compliance will be enforced by law enforcement officers. Pedestrian hybrid beacon indications are dark (not illuminated) when not in use.

While in use, a pedestrian hybrid beacon face will show a display to traffic. Drivers are encouraged to use caution as they approach this new traffic control device. Be prepared to slow down and stop when the beacons are activated. Go to http://www.cityoftyler.org/ and click on the News tab to view a press release that includes the Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon display.