On February 7, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) opened a new mid-block crosswalk equipped with a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB) at the intersection of Rockefeller Drive and State Road (S.R.) A1A in Ormond Beach to enhance pedestrian safety. The installation of the PHB is part of a larger FDOT project to implement safety improvements along S.R. A1A from Milsap Road to Granada Boulevard (S.R. 40). To learn more, visit the FDOT’s Central Florida Roads project webpage,cflroads.com/project/443512-1.
The PHB is an innovative overhead traffic device that remains inactive until a pedestrian activates the beacon by pushing a button on the signal pole. Once activated, the PHB signals drivers to slow down by flashing yellow and then turning solid yellow. The beacon will then turn solid red, which indicates to motorists to stop and allow pedestrians to safely cross the street. The beacon will then flash red, at which time drivers can proceed with caution if the roadway is clear of pedestrians. With an average of 18,600 motorists traveling down this corridor daily, the installation of the Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon represents a significant step toward safeguarding the Ormond Beach community.
In addition to the PHB at S.R. A1A and Rockefeller Drive, FDOT is enhancing pedestrian safety by installing seven mid-block crossings equipped with Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) at the following S.R. A1A intersections: Milsap Road, Benjamin Drive, River Beach Drive, Arlington Way, Ormond Parkway, Osceola Avenue, and Bosarvey Drive. Each RRFB will include signage and flashing yellow LED lights to increase drivers’ awareness of pedestrians crossing the roadway.
The new mid-block crossings near Milsap Road and Bosarvey Drive will be slightly elevated to be level with the sidewalk, which will put pedestrians in a more visible position to motorists and naturally encourage drivers to reduce their speed.
In line with the FDOT’s commitment to accessibility and safety, audible pedestrian signals and detectible warning pads will be installed at each new mid-block crossing. These enhancements are designed to provide increased accessibility for the visually impaired, ensuring that all members of the community can navigate streets safely.
Of the eight new mid-block crossings being installed along this corridor, only the crosswalk at Rockefeller Drive and S.R. A1A has been opened to pedestrians. The seven other crosswalks are scheduled to be completed and open by the end of February. Schedules are subject to change due to weather or unforeseen circumstances.
The Florida Department of Transportation remains dedicated to enhancing pedestrian safety and accessibility within the local community, and is excited to introduce these advancements at Rockefeller Drive and S.R. A1A.
For more information about RRFBs, PHBs, and instructions on how to use them, visit AlertTodayFlorida.com/Pedestrian for comprehensive resources and guidance. See the attached PHB tip card and photo of the new PHB.
Media inquiries should be directed to the District Five Public Information Office at [email protected] or 386-943-5593.
