A how-to for the HAWK signal at Connecticut and Ellicott (and everywhere)

The intersection of Connecticut Avenue and Ellicott Street now has a walk signal.

The HAWK signal at Connecticut and Ellicott. Cars must stop when the light is a solid red.

This pedestrian-activated light is part of DDOT’s Connecticut Avenue crosswalk plan. It joins two similar signals on Connecticut Avenue, one near Newark Street and another at Northampton Street.

Not familiar? Here’s what to do:

Pedestrians

Push the walk button, which you’ll find on the poles at each of the corners. A red hand will appear to caution you to remain on the sidewalk.

A white walk figure will appear in sync with traffic lights to the north and south at Fessenden and Davenport. Proceed across the street. The red countdown timer will appear to let those crossing the street know how much time you have left. Do not start to cross the street during this phase.

Drivers

Dark lights mean proceed normally. When the lights are flashing yellow, slow down.

Solid yellow lights warn you to prepare to stop. The solid red light is a stop signal.

A flashing red light tells drivers to stop and proceed with caution once pedestrians have cleared the crosswalk.

If you’re approaching the intersection when the lights are blinking red, stop, then proceed with caution if pedestrians have cleared the crosswalk. If already stopped, proceed cautiously once pedestrians have cleared crosswalk.