We are all too familiar with standard traffic signals
(especially when you are stopped at a red light, hoping to reach
that newly published cache before one of the local FTFers get
there!). However, you may not know that there are other types of
signalized crossings used in Tucson. One of these is the
Toucan, which stands for Two (Groups)
Can cross.
Toucan crossings are provided at locations where bicycle routes
cross major roads, to provide both pedestrians and cyclists with a
safe way to cross. Similar to a
Pelican, standard red/amber/green traffic signals are used to
control vehicle movement. While normally green, the traffic signal
will change to amber and then red whenever a pedestrian or cyclist
indicates they wish to cross the road. In addition to the usual
pedestrian push buttons mounted on the signal poles, a separate
push button is placed on a post next to the bicycle path so
cyclists can easily access it without having to dismount. When the
red traffic signal comes on, stopping the vehicular traffic, both a
Walk and a green bicycle indication will be displayed, signaling
that it is safe for both pedestrians and cyclists to cross.
Note that there is a variation of the Toucan used in the UK,
called the Pegasus crossing (named after the mythical
winged horse), which considers the special needs of horse riders.
In addition to wider spacing and a higher push button (for mounted
riders), the bicycle indications are replaced by red and green
horses.
There are several Toucan crossings in Tucson (though no Pegasus
crossings), including two along the popular 3rd Street Bikeway, at
Alvernon & 3rd and at Country Club & 3rd.