Albuquerque adds HAWK signal near Whittier, Wilson schools

The City of Albuquerque has installed a HAWK signal at the intersection of Kathryn Avenue and San Mateo, near Whittier Elementary School and Wilson Middle School. The crossing serves students in the Walking School Bus program, according to a city news release.

A HAWK, or high-intensity activated crosswalk, requires drivers to stop after a pedestrian presses the crossing button. Drivers see flashing yellow lights followed by solid red lights before traffic halts. The lights then flash red, allowing drivers to continue if no one else needs to cross.

“We want students to have safe routes to school, even on a busy street like San Mateo,” said Mayor Tim Keller in the release.

“HAWK signals protect kids. We’ve been adding them citywide, and they’re working,” said Director of Municipal Development Jennifer Turner.