The Space Coast Transportation Planning Organization has announced that a series of new Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons will soon go live along the highly traveled U.S. 192 corridor between West Melbourne and Melbourne. The safety project is part of a coordinated effort between SCTPO, the Florida Department of Transportation, and local law enforcement to reduce crashes and make road crossings safer for pedestrians in one of Brevard County’s busiest commercial corridors.
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Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons, commonly known as PHBs or HAWK signals, are specifically designed for higher speed roadways. Studies from the Federal Highway Administration have found that PHBs can reduce pedestrian crashes by more than 55 percent once installed. They are activated by pedestrians who need to cross the road and provide clear visual cues to drivers.
Where the New Signals Will Be Installed
The new PHBs will be located at the following intersections along U.S. 192:
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• Pearl Street and Circle Drive • Haven Drive and Campbell Drive • Wawa Way • Bry Lynn Drive • Palm Boulevard
These locations were selected based on crash data, pedestrian volume, community feedback, and proximity to neighborhoods and commercial centers.
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How Drivers Should Respond to PHBs
Understanding how these signals work is key. The operation is simple:
• No lights: Proceed normally. • Flashing yellow: Slow down. A pedestrian is preparing to cross. • Solid yellow: Prepare to stop. • Solid red: Stop completely. Pedestrians are crossing. • Flashing red: Stop first, then proceed only when the crosswalk is clear.
Florida law already requires drivers to fully stop for pedestrians in marked crosswalks. PHBs strengthen that requirement by providing a standardized warning system that is easy to recognize.
Why These Safety Measures Matter
The U.S. 192 corridor has long been a high-risk area for pedestrians due to heavy traffic, limited crossing points, and frequent commercial driveways. PHBs are increasingly being used across Florida in places where traditional traffic signals are not warranted but improved pedestrian safety is needed.
The Vision Zero initiative, supported by SCTPO and FDOT, aims to eliminate fatal and serious injury crashes. These installations are part of that broader goal. Similar projects in other Florida counties have resulted in significant reductions in injuries and improved compliance from drivers.
What Residents Can Expect
Installation of the PHBs typically includes new signage, pavement markings, and pedestrian refuge areas. Residents should expect intermittent lane closures during the final setup phase but no long-term traffic disruptions. Once activated, the beacons will be monitored for performance and adjustments will be made if needed.
Both West Melbourne Police Department and Melbourne Police Department will assist with public education and enforcement during the rollout to ensure drivers understand how the new signals work.
A Step Toward Safer Roads
Local officials say this project is an investment in public safety and a response to repeated calls from residents who have witnessed or experienced unsafe crossings along the corridor. With thousands of people using U.S. 192 daily, even small infrastructure changes can have a large impact.
More updates will be announced as activation dates for each location approach.
