ALLOUEZ, WI (WTAQ) – A new way of crossing the street has come to one spot in the Village of Allouez.
The state Department of Transportation has installed a pedestrian hybrid beacon on Highway 57, south of Sunset Circle.
“Push the button. There’s a voice that tells people that they’re going to cross Riverside Drive and to wait. As soon as you push the button, the motorist will see a flashing yellow ball.”
DOT Traffic Engineer Randy Asman explains what the drivers must do before the pedestrians can cross.
“The yellow will turn to solid yellow, your clue that you now need to stop. It will then go to solid red, and the walk signal will come on for the pedestrians who are crossing.”
Asman says drivers can proceed once the light changes to flashing red.
David Slattevo is a 16-year resident of the neighborhood, saying the change is much needed for pedestrians.
“I’ve seen lines of kids, bikes crossing over here at the corner, and it’s just difficult. I saw a gentleman down the street wait five minutes on a Sunday.”
Ten-year neighborhood resident Carl Archambeault says when it comes to safety, pedestrians aren’t the only ones who will see safer conditions.
“I think it’s safer for the drivers. If someone’s crossing, they have to slam their brakes on and get rear-ended, versus having a timed crossing.”
DOT officials say it cost upwards of $75,000 to install.
They note this is the first one installed on a state highway in the Green Bay area, with no current plans to install any others in the county.
