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Countdown Timer
OVERVIEW
A countdown timer is a flashing timer which signals the number of seconds remaining during the pedestrian crossing phase at a signalized intersection. Generally, countdown timers are installed with the "ped head" walk signal. The device is intended to provide information to crossing pedestrians by helping them to judge whether there is sufficient time to cross legally. Countdown timers are particularly helpful to disabled or elderly pedestrians, and adults accompanying small children. A number of major U.S. cities, including Washington , D.C., and Salt Lake City, Utah, now install countdown timers as standard equipment at all signalized intersections.
Countdown Timers were approved for use in the 2003 version of the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), the U.S. standard for signs, signals, and pavement markings in the United States. A pilot study in San Francisco found that, at the pilot intersections, installation of countdown timers resulted in a reduction in pedestrian crossings on red from 14% to 9%, and reduction in pedestrian collisions of over 50%.
A study in Montgomery County, Maryland, confirmed that the installation of countdown timers reduced pedestrian-involved collisions.[1]
ALSO ON THE LIVABLE STREETS NETWORK
REFERENCES
[1] Eccles, K.A.; Tao, R.; and Mangum, B.C. 2004. Evaluation of pedestrian countdown signals in Montgomery County, Maryland. Transportation Research Record 1878:36-41.
PICTURE REFERENCES
[1] San Diego, California, photo by Andy Hamilton, WalkSanDiego
[2]
