RRFB Signals

The City of Columbus has also installed several Rapid Rectangular Flashing Beacon (RRFB) Signals at key intersections around the city.

RRFB devices have been in use for the last several years at the intersection of Central Avenue and Parkside Drive near Parkside Elementary School and at the intersection of State Street and Third Street.  Additional devices were installed in July 2016 at the following locations:

  • Schmitt Elementary School (27th Street and California Street)
  • Parkside Elementary School (Royal Street and River Road)
  • Columbus East High School (Indiana Avenue and Marr Road)
  • Columbus North High School (Home Avenue near school tennis courts)

RRFB Signals are pedestrian activated via push button.
Drivers are legally obligated to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk.

Learn more about RRFB via the video demonstration (courtesy of Oregon DOT)


HAWK Signals

The City of Columbus is installing a new type of traffic signal – called a HAWK (High-Intensity Activated crossWalK).

There will be two HAWK signals:

  • On Lindsey Street near the entrance to Mill Race Park
  • On Brown Street near Cummins (between 5th and 8th Streets)

The HAWK makes it easier for pedestrians to cross busy streets while minimizing traffic delays.

animated photo showing what drivers and pedestrians will see when using HAWK

As a driver, remember these rules when approaching a HAWK signal:

Flashing Yellow:  Slow down and get ready to stop.

Solid Yellow:  Stop if possible.

Solid Red:   Stop.

Flashing Red: Stop and yield to pedestrian. Then go.

Image courtesy of State of Rhode Island Department of Transportation.