Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon at Ridge/Wayne/Hollywood
IN THIS POST
Introduction
Construction Details
What is a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon
Project Background
Construction of the highly anticipated Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB) at Ridge/Wayne/Hollywood is scheduled for Q3 of 2026. This $1.3 million project is the very first of its kind in Chicago.
This project has been in the works since 2021 when neighbors came together to raise concerns about the safety of the 5-way intersection at Ridge, Wayne, and Hollywood. Currently, the intersection has uncontrolled pedestrian crossings over Ridge, multiple points of conflict between pedestrians and drivers, and skewed intersections that allow for high-speed turns. Once completed, the intersection will be four-way complete with PHBs at the northmost Ridge Crossing (see lead photo). Read on for additional project background and PHB information.
CONSTRUCTION DETAILS
Construction is expected to start on Monday, September 28 (weather permitting). Please note:
During construction, expect traffic delays and lane shifts along Ridge. Northbound traffic will be reduced to one-lane; southbound traffic will remain two-lanes. Temporary pavement markings will be in place.
The sidewalk on the west side of Ridge will be closed.
Access to and from Ridge for both vehicles and pedestrians will be closed for the west leg of Hollywood and the south leg of Wayne
The majority of the project will be completed in 2026, with resurfacing and landscaping expected to take place in spring 2027.
For any questions, contact the ward office at info@theward.org or 773-784-5277.
WHAT IS A PEDSTRIAN HYBRID BEACON (PHB)?
The pedestrian hybrid beacon (PHB) is a traffic control device designed to help pedestrians safely cross higher-speed roadways. The beacon head consists of two red lenses above a single yellow lens.
The lenses remain dark until a pedestrian pushes the call button to activate the beacon. When the button is pushed, the beacon initiates a yellow to red lighting sequence that directs motorists to slow and come to a stop. Pedestrians can cross safely and, after a flashing countdown, the signal goes dark again. See above infographic or watch a video explainer here.
Because the beacon is activated by pedestrians, pedestrians can safely use the crosswalk right away, and vehicular traffic moves more efficiently than it would with a standard traffic light.
PROJECT BACKGROUND
This intersection has historically been dangerous for pedstrians due to its skewed intersections and long crosswalks.
Following a fatality at this intersection in July of 2021, neighbors organized to call for improvements. CDOT issued an official recommendation for the installation of a PHB that same year in December. IDOT concurred with the recommendation in January of 2023. Since then, our office has worked closely with CDOT and IDOT to secure funding and final plans. In May of 2025, our office hosted a community meeting to let 48th Ward neighbors know what to expect from this pedestrian safety infrastructure project. See the slides from this meeting here.
