On Pedestrian Push Buttons: Small Equipment, Large Impact

摘要

Why Push Buttons? Pedestrian push buttons and related equipment are certainly not the largest, most expensive or even the most interesting piece of equipment that a signal technician may encounter. Other issues with traffic signals will certainly grab more attention and perhaps rightfully so. However, I feel that the pedestrian detection system is just as important as any other part of the signal system. Planners and engineers these days are very likely to talk about "livable" and "healthy" communities which involves pedestrian and bicycle friendly roads and intersections to encourage people to walk or bike. In May 2006, I attended a Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) bicycle and pedestrian facilities training session. The major topics were placement, timing and signage at intersections.