Beginning in 2016, a new style of crosswalk signals called Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) were introduced in Red Deer to improve pedestrian safety.

RRFBs, an alternative to traditional traffic signals, are installed above the side mounted pedestrian crosswalk signs and use dual rectangular LED lights to display intermittent rapid flashes. RRFBs help motorists quickly yield to pedestrians while using cost effective solar power and wireless connections for activating the beacons across the roadway.

• See map of RRFB locations (pdf)

What you need to know

Here’s what drivers and pedestrians need to know about using RRFBs:

The City of Red Deer's Electric Light and Power maintains all traffic lights in the city. Report a street or traffic light problem.

Traffic signals may display “flashing red” or “flashing amber” under the following conditions:

1. New Signal: New traffic signals are usually placed on flash for about 48 hours before they are put into full operation. This helps to draw motorists’ attention to the new signals.
2. Malfunction: Our signal equipment continuously checks itself and goes on flash when a malfunction is detected.
3. Construction: An existing traffic signal may not be able to work properly during road constructions or emergencies; the signal is therefore put on flash temporarily.

Drivers approaching flashing amber light may proceed through the intersection with caution but must yield the right of way to any pedestrians or vehicles that are lawfully within the intersection.

Drivers approaching a flashing red light must stop the vehicle before the nearest marked crosswalk or, if there is no crosswalk, immediately before the intersection. They must not proceed into the intersection until it is safe to do so.

Power Outages: If traffic signals are not operating at all due to a power outage, drivers approaching the intersection must stop before entering the intersection and treat it like a four-way stop intersection.

Rotating signals are installed on designated major routes for extraordinarily high and wide loads to move through the city. If you have an inquiry about high and wide loads, please contact the Engineering Services Customer Service Section at 403-342-8161.

Left turning arrows can actually add to the congestion at an intersection by taking time away from through traffic. The green light for through traffic can be extended by eliminating a left turn arrow, providing better synchronization for the intersection.

Drivers are normally able to make a left turn during gaps in the opposing through traffic. Left turn arrows may be installed where turning vehicles are consistently delayed for one or two cycles. If you notice this situation at any signalized intersection, please contact the Engineering Services department Traffic Section.

Planned signal installations are based on analysis of traffic safety records, traffic flow and pedestrian flow. To request a new signal, contact the Engineering Services department Traffic Section at 403-342-8366.

Pedestrian Signal Head

Pedestrian signals are installed at each leg of an intersection where pedestrians are permitted to cross. If pedestrian crossing is prohibited, Pedestrian Prohibited signs are installed. Pedestrian pushbuttons are installed to prompt the walk light and give time to safely cross the street.

Pedestrian signals are used to enable pedestrians to cross the streets safely. The white walking person symbol indicates it is safe to begin crossing the street. The flashing hand symbol indicates it is no longer safe to start crossing the street. Pedestrians already in the crosswalk can finish crossing the street. The solid hand symbol indicates that pedestrian should not be in the crosswalk.

Pedestrian Countdown Timer

Pedestrian countdown timers at intersections are for pedestrians only. The countdown timer shows the time left to finish crossing the street before the solid hand symbol is displayed. The countdown timer may time out
before the green traffic signal actually changes phases.

Information on Pedestrian Signals is available in the Crossing the Street brochure (pdf) or in the Traffic Section's Frequently Asked Questions.

What you need to know

Here’s what drivers and pedestrians need to know about using Pedestrian Signals:

Audible Pedestrian signals are installed to assist visually impaired pedestrians. Information on installation or locations, please contact Engineering Services Traffic Section at 403-342-8366. 

To activate the audible signals: 

• Press and hold the pedestrian push button for a few seconds.
• A "cuckoo" sounds when the north/southbound walk light turns on.
• A "peep-peep" sounds when the east/westbound walk light turns on.

Traffic FAQs

Traffic cameras are installed and operated by the Red Deer RCMP to improve intersection safety. Cameras are currently used to ticket drivers who drive through a red light. Cameras will ticket drivers who speed through intersections. For further information on traffic enforcement cameras in Red Deer, refer to the Traffic and Photo Radar page. Inquiries regarding red light cameras can be directed to the Red Deer RCMP.