New signalized pedestrian crossing enhances safety at Olympiad Road and Lake Mission Viejo/Youth Athletic Park entrances

To improve safety for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists, the City installed a new signalized pedestrian crossing this summer at the intersection of Olympiad Road and the entrances to Lake Mission Viejo and Youth Athletic Park. Known as a pedestrian hybrid beacon, this traffic control device helps pedestrians safely cross busy arterial roadways by temporarily stopping traffic when a crossing is needed.

How it works for drivers

The beacon remains dark until a pedestrian activates it by pressing the call button. Once activated, the beacon cycles through a series of signals to alert drivers to stop and allow pedestrians to cross. The steady red lights require drivers to stop, which then transitions to alternating flashing red lights. At this stage, drivers are required to stop but may proceed through the intersection if the crossing is clear of pedestrians. Because the beacon is activated only when needed, it helps minimize unnecessary delays for motorists while providing a safer crossing opportunity for pedestrians.

How it works for pedestrians

• Resting state: The signal displays a steady orange hand, or "Don't Walk" symbol, indicating that pedestrians should wait.
• Activation: Pedestrians press the call button and wait for the signal to change.
• Walk signal: Once traffic has stopped and it is safe to cross, the signal displays a steady "Walk" symbol, often accompanied by a countdown timer to indicate the time remaining to cross.

As the first pedestrian hybrid beacon of its kind installed in Mission Viejo, this new crossing represents an important step in the City's ongoing commitment to pedestrian safety. Since its installation, the beacon has already been used by pedestrians and bicyclists, helping provide a safer, more convenient and efficient way to navigate this busy intersection.