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Marylou Berg, Communication Manager, 240-314-8105
Flashing Lights Signal Motorists to Watch for Pedestrians
Rockville Installs Innovative Alerts to Help Keep Pedestrians Safe
ROCKVILLE, Md., April 20, 2009 - Rockville completed installation of rapid flashing lights at two heavily used pedestrian intersections in the City. Rockville is the first community in Maryland to install the new pedestrian-safety devices.
The Rapid Rectangular Flashing Beacons, as they are officially named, provide rapid flashing lights -- similar to strobe lights -- under already posted crosswalk signs. The lights are activated once a pedestrian pushes the crosswalk button. The signal continues to flash for a set time while a pedestrian crosses the street. At all other times, the signal is dark.
The lights alert drivers that pedestrians are entering or are in the crosswalk. The flashing beacons are only being installed at intersections that do not have a signal or a stop sign.
The solar-powered, radio-controlled signals are designed to not only control traffic at busy intersections, but to teach pedestrians how to cross safely.
The crosswalk unit activates when a person stands near the unit, directing the person to push the red button. Simple instructions follow and an electronic voice states, "You have activated the crosswalk signal. Place one foot near the curb line and wait for the traffic to stop. Remember to thank the driver as you cross the roadway." Two languages are used - English and Spanish - on the signal.
The two intersections where the flashing beacons were installed are Maryland Avenue at Vinson Street and W. Edmonston Drive at the Woodmont Shopping Center and Apartments.
The flashing beacons are among the newest technology in pedestrian safety, cost $18,000 each and have received approval from the Federal Highway Administration. The money to buy the new flashing crosswalk lights is available to the City through the Speed Camera Program.
Money collected from the program is used for public safety projects such as sidewalk improvements and extensions, streetlights at intersection and crosswalks, bicycle and pedestrian improvements.
The Speed Camera Program started in the City of Rockville in March 2007, and since then the City has systematically increased efforts to reduce speeding in the City. Tickets are issued to drivers who are traveling at least 11 miles per hour over the speed limit. Violators receive a $40 citation in the mail.
The new flashing beacons are the most recent pedestrian safety improvement in Rockville paid for with speed camera funds. The improvements are also consistent with the Mayor and Council's Vision and Priorities in which public safety and physical infrastructure are top city service priorities.
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