The Alachua County Public Works Department’s Road and Bridge Division has completed the installation of six Rapid Rectangular Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) at three school crosswalks last week. The crossings are in front of the Kanapaha Middle School on S.W. 75th Street and the Lake Forest Elementary School and Eastside High School on S.E. 43rd Street.
Each crosswalk includes two RRFBs, one on each side of the street, with a pair of solar-powered flashing LED lights. The lights will begin to flash as soon as a pedestrian pushes the button on the pole and will remain flashing for 20 seconds so they can cross the street safely.
RRFBs help alert motorists that pedestrians or bicyclists are entering the crosswalk. Under Florida law 316.130(7), drivers must stop for pedestrians in a crosswalk when the lights are flashing.
“We are very happy to report that due to recent inflation, only two $25,000 crossings were planned for this year,” said Alachua County Public Works Assistant Director Brian Kauffman. “However, three crossings could be installed due to the cost savings achieved by using County staff to do the construction."
For more information, contact Brian Kauffman at 352-548-1306.
