Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB)

PHB fact sheet

Motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists are noticing a new type of traffic control device being installed in several locations around the state, called a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB). It is sometimes referred to as a High Intensity Activated Cross-Walk (HAWK).

• The PHB (beacon) is designed to help pedestrians/bicyclists cross busy streets.
• It’s designed to warn and control vehicular traffic at locations that don’t meet the requirements for a standard traffic signal.
• PHBs are approved for use at a marked but unsignalized mid-block crosswalk, as they control main street vehicular traffic only.

Purpose

The beacon stops traffic with a double red indication, thereby creating a gap for pedestrians/bicyclists to cross the street. While it may appear different to motorists, with its normally dark state and non-standard sequencing, for pedestrians/bicyclists it works the same as any push-button activated traffic signal.

Video by WisDOT - Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon - Guidance for vehicles and pedestrians.