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New pedestrian signal on Michigan Street is the first of its kind

You may notice a new kind of signal on Michigan Street.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - Drivers, cyclists and pedestrians on Michigan Street NE will soon see a new signal marking the busy Medical Mile crossing.

Starting October 10, the new signal -- also known as a pedestrian hybrid beacon -- will help people trying to cross Michigan Street near Baynton Avenue. This kind of signal is the first of its kind of Grand Rapids.

According to Josh Naramore, the City’s Mobile GR and Parking Services manager, the pedestrian signal is different than a standard traffic signal. It remains dark unless activated by a person who wants to cross Michigan Street. The lights on the pedestrian signal become active when someone pushes the call button on either side of Michigan Street.

The new signal creates a better and safer location for people to cross Michigan Street between the traffic signals at Fuller and Plymouth avenues. City officials anticipate more people attempting to cross in this area due to the new Route 19 stop nearby.

Naramore said Michigan Street was a good location to install a pedestrian hybrid beacon.

“This type of signal is only appropriate in locations that meet certain requirements. This crossing is one of those locations due to its width, vehicle travel speeds, projected pedestrian activity and distance from other signalized street crossing locations,” he said. “We look forward to studying its use here as we work to improve transportation safety and mobility in Grand Rapids.”

Similar beacons are used in California. Here is a video detailing how it works.

To learn more about the signal, click here.

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