FAQs

A HAWK (High-Intensity Activated crossWalK beacon) signal is a traffic signal used to stop vehicular traffic and allow pedestrians to cross an intersection safely. It is officially known as a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB) and it is a Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) proven safety countermeasure. The purpose of a HAWK signal is to allow protected pedestrian crossings, stopping road traffic only as needed.

The existing midblock crossing is currently equipped with pedestrian actuated Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs), however, based on feedback from community members, these RRFBs are not providing users with a sense of safety. Community members felt that the current RRFBs lack visibility and do not provide a clear “stop” signal for motorists who may see flashing yellow as a suggestion to proceed slowly instead of yielding to pedestrians. Downtown business owners and customers report vehicles routinely not stopping for pedestrians, close calls and collisions. Traffic data collected in July 2021 shows 40-52% of vehicles are traveling above the speed limit of 30 mph, some as fast as 45 mph. Crash data obtained from the City of Englewood Police Department indicates two (2) collisions between vehicles, vehicles and bicyclists, or vehicles and pedestrians between 2019 and 2021.

This is an important pedestrian midblock crossing in the heart of Englewood’s downtown district, near public parking, bike amenities, and transit connections. It is used by many vulnerable populations, including people with disabilities, seniors, low-income individuals and young children to get to local shops, restaurants, services and healthcare. Concerns about safety at this crosswalk have increased over the past few years, with data showing that up to half of motorists are routinely exceeding the speed limit. Installation of a HAWK signal and additional safety improvements will potentially improve the safety and comfort of pedestrians, increase compliance of vehicles stopping for pedestrians, and reduce or eliminate the number crashes and near-miss incidents.

The HAWK Signal Project is currently under design. Construction is scheduled to begin in Summer 2026 and completed in Summer of 2026. Residents and business owners directly impacted by this project will receive more information about the project, construction impacts, and construction schedule before the start of construction.

Construction to begin in Summer of 2026. Subscribe to this page to get updates on construction.