Environmental Services
Pedestrian Signal Information
Pedestrian Signals
Visual signals
Audible signals
Report problems with pedestrian signals on the recorded Traffic Signal Hotline at 703-228-6511 (TTY 703-228-4611).
New Columbia Pike Signal and Crosswalk Improve Pedestrian Safety and Access
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Starting this month, it will be easier for pedestrians and bicyclists crossing Columbia Pike at Scott Street thanks to a new pedestrian-activated traffic signal and crosswalk. Designed and installed by the Transportation staff in Arlington County's Department of Environmental Services, the new signal will provide local residents with improved access to transit stops on either side of Columbia Pike, as well as other area activities.
Due to growing safety concerns as traffic increased on Columbia Pike in recent years, County experts evaluated the South Street crossing for enhancements. In coordination with VDOT and other stakeholders, Arlington developed a design to meet the needs of the community and support transit connections in the area.
Work began in July of this year to construct the new crossing which features traffic signals installed on pedestal poles in the median and on the sidewalks. The design also increases visibility for both pedestrians and motorists with new streetlights, a laddered crosswalk and a raised concrete median. To use the new signals, pedestrians simply push the button on the nearest pole, and after several seconds, a red light is displayed for vehicles and a walk sign indicates it is safe for those on foot to cross.
One of several initiatives to invest in the community, the new, safer crossing will support a creation of a vibrant, accessible and pedestrian-friendly "Main Street" environment in the Columbia Pike corridor. For additional information about the new signal and crossing, please email Valerie Lee or call at 703-228-3722.
We currently have two types of visual pedestrian signals in Arlington County. One type is the older "Hand/Pedestrian" type. Some pedestrians found the "Hand/Pedestrian" signal head confusing. Frequently we were told that some pedestrians thought that they had to complete the crossing before the "Hand" signal starts to flash.
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This symbol means "Start walking" |
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When flashing, this symbol means "don't start walking" (if you are still on the curb) When the hand is solid the symbol means "Don't Cross". |
The Transportation Engineering Division is installing new Pedestrian Signal Count-down Devices at selected intersections.
As pedestrians cross, they have the opportunity to know how many seconds remain until the end of that pedestrian crossing phase of the traffic signal. The standard "Hand/Pedestrian" symbol is also displayed along side of the "Count-down" number of seconds display. This is very useful where the crossing distance is long.
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This symbol means "start walking, you have 32 seconds to cross" |
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When hand is flashing, this symbol means "don't start walking" When the hand is solid the symbol means "Don't Cross". |
Arlington installs audible pedestrian signals at existing traffic signals for visually impaired pedestrians. The requirements of an audible pedestrian signal depend on the person who will be using the signal and the specific location. Therefore, only requests from the person who will be using the audible signal will be considered. Once a request is received staff will meet with the visually impaired pedestrian on location to determine the specific requirements. Requests for audible pedestrian signals should be made to the Transportation Engineering Division at 703-228-6570 .