NORFOLK, Va. — A different type of traffic signal is giving pedestrians a safer way to cross Granby Street in Norfolk. The pedestrian hybrid beacon, installed about a week ago at the intersection of Granby Street and Suburban Parkway, is currently the only one of its kind in the city.
The signal is designed to help reduce conflicts between pedestrians and vehicles, particularly in areas where people face safety risks when crossing busy roads.
“One of the reasons why we put this here is to provide pedestrians a safe, protected crossing,” said Kyle Gilmer, a Transportation Strategic Planner with the City of Norfolk. Gilmer cited a history of pedestrian and vehicle conflicts, including injuries and serious fatalities, as a reason for installing the beacon.
How the Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon Works
The pedestrian hybrid beacon uses a series of flashing and solid lights to alert drivers when someone wants to cross the street…