HAWK signals help pedestrians cross streets in Cedar Rapids - KTIV News 4 Sioux City IA: News, Weather and Sports

Traffic engineers in Cedar Rapids are working to make some intersections safer for pedestrians.

They've installed new High-intensity Activated crossWalK, or HAWK, signals at two intersections in the city they feel don't need a traffic light.

On HAWK signals lights flash yellow to warn drivers a pedestrian will soon be crossing. Then there's a solid yellow light followed by a solid red, like at a traffic signal.

"Then you must stop and stay stopped," said Jon Resler, Associate Traffic Engineer. "After the pedestrian signal goes through their timing, then it goes to a flashing red which means you still have to stop, but if it's clear, you can then proceed."

Engineers are also considering adding a hawk signal near the convention center. There's currently yellow flashing lights that drivers often ignore.