Complete Guide to Signalized Crosswalks in Flagstaff
- Mountain Mojo Group
- May 15
- 3 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Making Every Crossing Safer in Flagstaff
Flagstaff is investing in smarter, safer intersections, and signalized crosswalks are a big part of that vision. These crossings are designed to help pedestrians, especially those walking to school, work, or the bus, get where they’re going with confidence. Whether you're new to town or have walked these streets for years, here's a quick refresher on how to use signalized crosswalks—and what new improvements are on the way.
What Is a Signalized Crosswalk?
A signalized crosswalk uses lights, countdown timers, or flashing beacons to guide safer pedestrian crossings.
You’ll often see them at:
High-volume intersections
School zones
Trail crossings
Transit stops
These crosswalks establish clearer expectations for drivers and provide pedestrians with a safer, more predictable way to cross busy streets.
The City of Flagstaff is prioritizing these features in new projects to reduce conflict points and improve visibility. This aligns with the Complete Streets approach, which designs roads for everyone—not just cars. Greater Flagstaff is working to expand safe crossings that support walking, biking, and rolling.
Did You Know? In a recent survey, 43% of Flagstaff residents prioritized investment in pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure above road and public transit infrastructure.
How to Use Them the Right Way
Knowing how to use a signalized crosswalk keeps you and others safe. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Push the button. Activate the pedestrian signal by pressing the button at the pole.
Wait for the “Walk” signal. Don’t start crossing until you see the signal change.
Look both ways. Even when you have the signal, always check that traffic is stopping. At midblock crossings, it can be hard to tell if the lights are still flashing—don’t assume they are. Always look both ways before stepping onto the road.
Cross within the marked lines. Stay alert and avoid distractions while walking. At many newer midblock crossings, you’ll see an indicator light confirming the signal is still flashing.
A few extra tips:
Don’t assume drivers will stop. Make eye contact when possible.
Stay off your phone. Keep your head up and stay alert.
Be visible. Wear bright colors or reflective gear, especially at night.
Watch Out: Studies show that 14% of pedestrians in Flagstaff are distracted, often using phones or wearing headphones, while crossing at signalized intersections. Distraction can reduce situational awareness and increase the risk of a crash.
Helping others cross safely matters, too. If you’re walking with children, older adults, or someone with mobility challenges, wait for the full signal cycle and walk together. Let them set the pace.
Where You’ll See These in Action Around Town
Signalized crosswalks are being added or upgraded in high-traffic areas across Flagstaff.
Here are a few key spots:
West Street near Coconino High School: A key Safe Routes to School improvement.
Fourth Street and Lockett Road: A new roundabout will include enhanced crosswalks with flashing beacons.
Highway 180 corridor: Plans include multiple crossings to better serve trail users and transit riders.
Beulah roundabout: The Beulah/University Realignment Project includes a new signalized crossing to help pedestrians and cyclists safely navigate one of Flagstaff’s busiest corridors.
Humphreys and Butler: An upgraded beacon crossing on Fourth Street southeast of Huntington.
Flagstaff Medical Center: An upgraded beacon crossing on Fourth Street near North Country Healthcare.
Why It Matters: HAWK (High-Intensity Activated Crosswalk) signals can reduce pedestrian crashes by up to 69%, according to the Federal Highway Administration. And 97% of drivers comply with these signals—far higher than at crossings with flashing yellow lights.
These efforts are part of the city’s broader vision for a more walkable and connected community, where pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers share space safely.
Join the Movement for a Safer, Greater Flagstaff
Signalized crosswalks aren’t just infrastructure—they’re part of a growing commitment to pedestrian safety in Greater Flagstaff.
By learning how to use these tools properly, we make streets safer for everyone.
Model safe habits. Teach others. And look out for your neighbors.
MetroPlan supports this vision through planning, education, and advocacy. We're working every day to make Flagstaff a place where everyone can move safely, whether on foot, by bike, or behind the wheel.
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