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Council debates raised crosswalks and HAWK vs. flashing-beacon treatments on Reading Road
Summary
Council members supported raised crosswalks in principle but disagreed over whether rectangular rapid flashing beacons or full HAWK-style signals would be needed at high-volume crossings; ODOT said RRFBs and raised approaches are part of the design and that HAWK signals are less effective on multi-lane roads.
Several council members said they favor raised crosswalks and curb bump-outs but questioned whether flashing beacons (RRFBs) would be sufficient at busy crossings such as the library and Vorhees. "I think a traffic light at that crosswalk would greatly improve safety and slow traffic," Mrs. Eadicicco said, asking why a HAWK-style signal was not considered.
ODOT replied that a HAWK signal is not as successful on multi-lane roads and that the current proposal includes raised intersections and RRFBs in certain locations instead of traditional traffic signals. The agency added that in places where medians and hardened centerlines are used, they expect reduced misuse of the center turn lane and improved pedestrian refuge.
