Austin To Add 6 More Pedestrian Activated Crosswalks

Good News for Austin’s Pedestrians.

The Texas Department of Transportation has confirmed that the City of Austin will install six new pedestrian crossings, or hybrid beacons, by the end of the year (one of those six is pending TxDOT approval). These beacons, also known as PHBs, are flashing crosswalks that stop traffic for pedestrians on a busy street.

The following intersections will have pedestrian hybrid beacons installed by the end of the year:

• Camino La Costa at Calidad Drive
• Red River at Park Street
• 822 Rutland
• North Lamar at Connolly High School
• Manchaca Road and Inverness Boulevard

Many locals living in South Austin are looking forward to a beacon being installed on Manchaca Road. As a four-lane road with popular destinations like the ACC Campus and the 24 hour coffee shop/music venue Strange Brew, it can be difficult to cross the busy road.

Currently, there are about 23 intersections that could qualify for improvements. Last year, four intersections were improved. At 47th Street and Guadalupe Street, the pedestrian beacon has helped many who work in the area feel safer crossing the busy road. Not long ago the U.S. Department of Transportation launched a Safer People, Safer Streets initiative aimed at creating safer walking networks across the U.S. Unfortunately, pedestrian fatalities still account for 14% of all traffic fatalities in the U.S.

Although these crosswalks will provide a safe space, it is important for all pedestrians to be on the lookout for speeding vehicles or drivers who may be driving erratically or not paying attention. We urge all pedestrians to always use the crosswalk and wait for the signal rather than cutting across when it may not be safe to do so. Dim streets, hills, and tight roads often make it hard for motorists to see pedestrians until it’s too late.

If you are ever injured in a collision caused by a careless driver, speaking with an Austin pedestrian accident attorney immediately can be critical in preserving your rights. Contact TK Injury Lawyers at 512-910-2000 for a free consultation and case evaluation.