The Oregon Department of Transportation carried out a field study to compare side and overhead-mounted beacons, such as Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB), with Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFB) to see which technology fostered better pedestrian compliance.

Intended to attract attention, the PHB consists of two red beacons centered on top of a single yellow beacon to make a triangle formation. PHB is typically installed at intersections that do not meet a traffic signal warrant.

• Hardware for an overhead PCB installation is estimated to cost $100,000
• Installation is estimated to be an additional $60,000.

A less expensive pedestrian device that also helps improve driver yielding rates is RRFB. RRFB consists of two rectangular yellow indications placed below a pedestrian or school crossing sign. The devices are activated by a push button unit or passive pedestrian detection.

• Hardware and labor for these devices costs approximately $30,0000 for a median-mounted RRFB with four mounting posts.
• When advanced heads are included, the cost increases to $60,000.

Note: Overhead installation of either the PCB or the RRFB involve considerably more costs associated with temporary traffic control, excavation and construction of the mast pole foundations, and specialized lift equipment.