From VDOT
Pedestrians crossing Route 17 at Tappahannock can use a new crosswalk and push-button activated flashing warning light system recently installed by the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT).
The crosswalk and flashing warning lights are designed to call attention to pedestrians crossing this four-lane primary road near Tappahannock Elementary and the Essex Public Library.
Drivers are reminded that pedestrians crossing the roadway using a designated crosswalk or crossing at any intersection where the speed limit is 35 mph or less have the right of way. Route 17 traffic must stop for pedestrians crossing the street in the crosswalk.
VDOT is augmenting the crosswalk with flashing warning lights as an additional safety measure.
“Research has shown that the presence of flashing pedestrian warning lights makes drivers more likely to stop for pedestrian traffic,” said Peter Hedrich, P.E., VDOT Fredericksburg District Traffic Engineer.
Pedestrians seeking to cross Route 17 are advised to push the button to activate the flashing warning lights and be sure all lanes of traffic are stopping before crossing the street in the crosswalk.
Four signs with flashing pedestrian warning lights have been installed along Route 17 at the crosswalk approach. Each direction of Route 17 will have a sign along each shoulder so motorists will have an unobscured view of the warning lights.
The speed limit on Route 17 changes from 25 mph to 35 mph just west of the pedestrian crosswalk. When flashing lights are activated on the school zone speed limit signs, the speed limit on Route 17 is reduced from 35 mph to 25 mph west of the crosswalk.
Solar power is the energy source for the pedestrian flashing warning lights. The project is being funded by VDOT’s safety and operational improvement program.
