Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon signals to be activated near 3 Effingham Co. schools

EFFINGHAM COUNTY, Ga. (WTOC) - The Georgia Department of Transportation announced they will activate Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon signals on state routes at three Effingham County School campuses.

They said it will happen Wednesday, August 26 at the request of the school system.

“This safety enhancement project should elevate the level of safety for students and other pedestrians crossing a state highway to school campuses,” they wrote.

The PHB devices will be installed at:

• S.R. 275 at Ebenezer Elementary and Middle Schools campus
• S.R. 119 at Effingham County High School
• S.R. 30 at South Effingham County High School

Message boards will be placed at and near these locations to make motorists aware of the activation date.

A PHB is a pedestrian-activated traffic control device that remains dark until needed, then signals motorists to stop, allowing pedestrians to safely cross the roadway.

“PHB crosswalks are effective and safe when used properly. Improving pedestrian safety via PHB device is contingent upon compliance by pedestrians and motorists,” they wrote.