A new kind of traffic signal will soon be helping people cross the street in Ann Arbor, allowing traffic to run smoothly when walkers, runners, and bikers aren't out and about.
The joint project between the Michigan Department of Transportation and the city will install the HAWK signal, High-intensity Activated crosswaLK, at the corner of Huron Street and where Third turns into Chapin, just west of downtown. Eli Cooper, transportation program manager for the city of Ann Arbor, says the innovative signal was identified in 2007 as something the city could implement successfully as part of its nonmotorized plan.
Traffic studies have been done at that intersection to determine if it needs a regular signal, but the traffic flow isn't high enough to justify one. "We've got a tool that we can use, and we've got a location," Cooper says. "We're ready to deploy the technology, and we're pleased (MDOT has) selected us. We believe that it will be a significant improvement to the walking environment in our community."
The total estimated cost for the project is $102,000, with the city contributing about $21,000 for a mast arm, which officials prefer for crossing signals, and the necessary reinforced foundations.
From the pedestrian's point of view, the signal won't be much different than a regular crossing signal; push the button, wait for the indicator to change from "don't walk" to "walk," and cross the street. From the driver's standpoint, however, the intersection will be dark when there are no pedestrians. When a pedestrian does press the crossing button, a yellow light flashes to warn drivers, and red lights come on to make it safe to cross.
There are a few others in the metro area, but not many. "This is relatively new, and completely new for Washtenaw County," Cooper says. "This device will enable traffic to flow freely and smoothly at all times, other than when a pedestrian is present."
He hopes a media and informational campaign will help educate drivers about the new intersection. Installation was expected to start this week, with the new signal to be operational by November.
"This is absolutely exciting," Cooper says. "We do pay a lot of attention and pride ourselves as being a pedestrian-friendly community, a bicycle-friendly community. This a a device that accommodates the interest in a very effective way."
Source: Eli Cooper, Transportation Program Manager for the city of Ann Arbor
Writer: Kristin Lukowski
Enjoy this story?
Sign up for free solutions-based reporting in your inbox each week.