SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – Four new crosswalks with pedestrian hybrid beacons (PHB) and a new stoplight at Johnson Boulevard have been installed along U.S. Highway 50 as part of the South Lake Tahoe Safety Project which began construction in 2024.
Contracted by St. Francis Electric of San Leandro, the $36 million project took three seasons to complete. The scope of the project also included new green bike lanes along both directions of Highway 50 between Pioneer Trail and the Y, and an upgraded signal vehicle detection system at the Y.
“Caltrans is grateful for partnering with the City of South Lake Tahoe and Tahoe Regional Planning Agency on the South Lake Tahoe US 50 Safety Project,” said John O’Connell, Public Information Officer for Caltrans District Three. “This project will enhance safety and mobility for pedestrians and cyclists in the community with the addition of new crosswalks, green bike lanes, and improved lighting along the corridor. This project also provides aesthetic enhancements for the US 50 South Lake Tahoe corridor.”
The new PHBs are located at South Tahoe Middle School and South Lake Tahoe’s fire station 2, Grocery Outlet between Truckee Drive and River Drive, Taco Bell between Carson Avenue/Rubicon Trail and Blue Lake Avenue, and Whole Foods between Herbert Avenue and Ski Run Boulevard.
The beacons feature a light changing pattern signaling to motorists that a pedestrian is ready to cross. The PHB will flash a yellow light after being activated, followed by a solid yellow light that warns vehicles to prepare to stop. Two red lights signal that a pedestrian is crossing and will flash red for motorists to yield to pedestrians before proceeding.
“Having these intermediate points between the normal traffic intersection signals is very helpful, from an opportunity and mobility point-of-view,” said Mohammad (Dr Q) Qureshi, the city of South Lake Tahoe’s Director of Public Works and City Traffic Engineer.
Because the new beacons are uncommon to our area, vehicles are encouraged to be aware of their use and adhere to their signals.
“If you see the red lights flashing, just stop,” added Dr. Q. “If you see it flashing yellow, get ready to stop.”
