Pedestrian Safety

Pedestrian Safety Reminders

Pedestrians:

  • Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections whenever possible
  • Look in all directions before crossing
  • Never assume a driver sees you. Make eye contact with drivers as they approach to make sure you are seen
  • Don't cross against pedestrian signals
  • Don't cross at unsafe locations
  • Obey traffic laws
  • Use sidewalks whenever possible
  • Stay alert at all times; don't be distracted by electronic devices that take your eyes of the road

Drivers:

  • Slow down when approaching a crosswalk and look for pedestrians who may be waiting to cross
  • Stop and remain stopped for pedestrians until they have cleared the lane in which you are traveling or turning
  • Stop and remain stopped for people directed by a crossing guard
  • Do not pass a vehicle stopped for a pedestrian
  • Obey all traffic signals
  • If you see a "Stop Here for Pedestrians" sign, slow down and prepare to stop. If there are pedestrians waiting at or approaching the intersection, stop at the sign and allow them to cross. If there are no pedestrians waiting at or approaching the intersection you do not have to stop and can continue driving

Crosswalk Enhancement Projects in Burnsville

Flashing lights can make people nervous; red lights can be frustrating; but flashing lights and red lights together can get the attention of drivers -- and that is exactly what is needed to keep walkers and bikers safe on City streets.

To help enhance pedestrian safety, the City of Burnsville, along with state and local partners, has installed new crosswalk technology at some areas with increased levels of concern.

Crosswalk enhancements for pedestrians with disabilities

Currently located at: Highway 13/Cliff Road; Highway 13/County Road 11

These crosswalk are equipped with assistance systems that include audio, and properly aligned truncated domes (bumps in the concrete that mark the edge of the sidewalk). These features provide direction for blind pedestrians.

Pedestrian crossing signs with push button-activated flashing LED lights make it easier for drivers to see when a pedestrian is attempting to cross.

Rectangular Rapid-Flashing Beacons (RRFB) Currently located at: Nicollet Boulevard/Fairview Hospital; Burnsville Parkway/Eagle Ridge Drive

Flashing amber beacons light up the roadway day and night as Fairview Hospital staff and others cross Nicollet Boulevard. RRFB are solar powered LEDs that supplement warning signs at pedestrian crossings. The push of a button starts an irregular flash pattern to get drivers' attention. In-pavement lighting also lights up two crosswalks at the street level.

High-Intensity Activated Crosswalk (HAWK) Currently located at: County Road 11 at 140th Street/Evergreen Drive

The HAWK system is similar to a button-activated traffic signal and does not turn on unless activated by a pedestrian. When a pedestrian pushes the button, a yellow beacon flashes for a few seconds, followed by a steady yellow light and finally, a steady red light. After the pedestrian crosses, the red light will begin to flash letting drivers know they can begin moving once the pedestrian has cleared their lane.

Additional Resources