Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons (PHBs)
Push to cross safely. This special crossing light stays dark until you press the button, then cars must stop.
What is it?
A Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB) is a pedestrian- and bike-activated crossing signal used at marked crosswalks. They are usually found at locations where crossing is difficult. The beacon stays dark until someone presses the button, then it runs a yellow-to-red sequence to stop traffic and give people walking time to cross.
PHBs are installed on streets where it can be hard to find safe gaps in traffic, especially where speeds are higher and/or there are multiple lanes to cross.
How to Use It
- Press the button to activate the beacon.
- Wait for the pedestrian/bike signal to show WALK/Green.
- Wait for all cars to come to a stop.
- Cross the street and stay alert for traffic.
Why It Matters
PHBs provide positive stop control. This means they don’t just “ask nicely” like a RRFB (yellow flashing lights), instead, they are more like a modified traffic light. When activated, they assign the right-of-way and create a clear crossing opportunity on streets where drivers may not otherwise yield consistently.
They’re also an “in-between” option: more stopping power than a flashing beacon, but they can still be used in places where a full traffic signal may not be appropriate.
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Up to 55%
Reduction in Pedestrian Crashes
Research-based crash modification factors for PHB/HAWK installations show about a 54.7% reduction in vehicle–pedestrian crashes (CMF ≈ 0.453).
Source: FHWA
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29%
Reduction in Total Crashes
FHWA summarizes studies showing PHBs are associated with about a 29% reduction in total crashes.
Source: FHWA
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15%
Reduction in Fatal and Serious Injury Crashes
FHWA also summarizes studies showing about a 15% reduction in serious injury and fatal crashes.
Source: FHWA
Where You’ll See It in Madison
Currently, Madison only has one PHB installed at the intersection of N. Blair Street and E. Mifflin Street, a Bike Boulevard.
Tips for Drivers
When activated, drivers will see:
- Flashing yellow, then steady yellow (prepare to stop)
- Double red (drivers must stop)
- Then alternating flashing red, where drivers must stop first, then may proceed only after the crosswalk is clear.