The City of Springfield Public Works is in the process of installing a high-intensity activated crosswalk (HAWK) signal on Sunset Street between Kimbrough Avenue and Dollison Avenue as part of The Link crossing project. Included in the project is the design and construction of an accessible walk and bike path along Kimbrough south of Sunset that leads to this new signal. In addition a path will be constructed connecting to the South Creek Greenway Trail and a new accessible walk and path under the Chestnut Expressway, connecting Chestnut Street to Sherman Avenue.
The contractor for the project is Hunter Chase. The funding source for the project is the 1/8-cent transportation sales tax. The project is expected to be completed before the end of the spring.
How the signal works
A HAWK signal provides a protected pedestrian crossing as a way to increase safety. It is used to stop traffic when pedestrians activate a button allowing them to cross after the traffic comes to a halt. After the HAWK signal is activated, a flashing yellow light warns drivers approaching the crosswalk of the pedestrian wishing to cross. The flashing yellow light is followed by a solid yellow light telling drivers to prepare to stop. The signal then changes to a solid red for drivers to stop at the intersection. When the traffic is halted, pedestrians may cross safely. The solid red signal will then convert to a flashing red signal after a predetermined amount of time, telling drivers to proceed through the intersection when it is clear and safe to do so.
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