Bicycle & Pedestrian Push-Button Crossings

BROCHURE: Bicycle & Pedestrian Push-Button Crossings(PDF, 2MB)

Are you unsure how to use these crossings? Here are some helpful tips whether you're biking, walking, or driving.

PELICAN Traffic Signal

The PEdestrian LIght Control ActivatioN (PELICAN) system provides a safe, two-stage crossing for pedestrians. The crossing incorporates the median island refuge between the two stages. These crossings can be easily identified by artwork displayed on the median. The PELICAN is placed mid-block on major streets, and minimizes the potential for stops, delays, and accidents. A pedestrian uses the crossing by pressing a button to activate the first signal. When the light turns red, a “WALK” signal prompts them to proceed to the median. The pedestrian then walks a short distance along the median to activate the second signal. A second “WALK” indication appears when the traffic signal turns red. The PELICAN uses a standard Red-Yellow-Green signal for motorists and remains green unless activated by a pedestrian. Bicyclists should yield to pedestrians, dismounting if necessary.

TOUCAN Traffic Signal

The TwO groUps CAN cross (TOUCAN) system was designed to provide a safe crossing for two groups - pedestrians and bicyclists. TOUCAN systems are placed at locations of heavy bicycle and pedestrian crossing activity and along roadways that are prioritized for non-motorized uses, sometimes known as “Bike Boulevards.” An added benefit to the TOUCAN signal system is that motorized traffic is not allowed to proceed through these signals, decreasing the number of cars on neighborhood streets, and enhancing the neighborhood’s quality of life. A TOUCAN can be activated only by bicyclists or by pedestrians. Both use a push button to activate the signal. Bicyclists respond to an innovative bicycle signal and use a special lane when crossing. Pedestrians get a standard WALK indication and have a separate, adjacent crosswalk. The system uses a standard signal for motorists.

HAWK & BikeHAWK Crossings

The High-intensity Activated Cross WalK (HAWK) is one of the newest crossing systems in use. It is based on a European design and resembles the American school bus “children present” warning. The HAWK consists of a Red-Yellow-Red signal format for motorists. The signals remain off until a pedestrian activates the system by pressing a button. First, a FLASHING YELLOW light warns motorists that a pedestrian is present. The signal then changes to SOLID YELLOW, alerting drivers to prepare to stop. The signal then turns SOLID RED and shows the pedestrian a “WALK” symbol. The signal then begins ALTERNATING FLASHING RED and the pedestrian is shown a flashing “DON’T WALK” with a countdown timer. Drivers are allowed to proceed during the flashing red after coming to a full stop and making sure there is no danger to pedestrians. In school zones, drivers must wait until the children and crossing guard are completely out of the crossing before proceeding. Bicyclists are advised to yield to pedestrians and dismount if necessary.

HAWK Operation Video
(90 second video)

(30 second video)