The City has a High Intensity Activated Crosswalk (HAWK) signal  installed at the crossing of the multi-use trail on Menomonie Street to assist pedestrians crossing the roadway. While its appearance is a bit different to drivers because of its two red lenses placed above a yellow lens it works the same for pedestrians as at a signalized intersection.

Contact Engineering at 715-839-4934 or email engineering@eauclairewi.gov with comments or questions regarding the HAWK signal or any traffic control device.

 How does the HAWK signal work?

• A pedestrian activates the system by pressing a push button, which alerts motoring traffic with overhead flashing lights indicating the signal has been activated.
• The light turns a solid yellow, which indicates the signal will be turning red and traffic must stop.
• The signal remains solid red while the pedestrian is given the "walk" signal. All traffic must remain stopped during this time.
• A pedestrian countdown begins, and a flashing red light appears.
  • The motorist may proceed with caution through the crossing if the intersection is clear.
  • The motorist must come to a complete stop prior to proceeding through the crossing if approaching when the lights are flashing red.
• When the pedestrian countdown time expires the beacon will go dark and traffic will continue as usual.
  
  How Does a Hawk Signal Operate? (pdf) 

Supporting Data & Video Example of HAWK System

• Federal Highway Administration supporting data of HAWK systems (from July 2010 report):
  • https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/publications/research/safety/10042/10042.pdf.
• Video example of an operating HAWK system:
  • http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_rym0bYINU.