WYOMING, Mich. (WOOD) — A new type of streetlight was installed this week across DeHoop Avenue near Pinery Park as Wyoming officials work to connect the Kent Trails while increasing pedestrian safety.
It’s a HAWK signal, which stands for high intensity activated crosswalk. The light is different than that of a standard traffic signal: It remains dark unless activated by someone wanting to cross. One the button is pushed, a set of three lights cycles from flashing yellow to solid yellow and then to solid red.
State data shows there was a 1% increase in pedestrian-involved crashes last year, with the month of October seeing the highest increase.
The DeHoop light is the second HAWK signal installed in Wyoming. The first has seen success as it slows and stops traffic along 56th street near the Kent Trails.
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Jana Devries, who walks the Kent Trail at least once a week, told News 8 that she is pleased with the HAWK light along 56th Street. Since its installation three years ago, she has experienced more cars fully stopping at the crosswalk to allow her and others to pass safely…