Alamogordo NM
3-01-2026 5:56pm

City of Alamogordo to Install HAWK Pedestrian Safety System on 10th Street; Expect Lane Closures March 2-4

ALAMOGORDO, N.M. (March 1, 2026) — In a move to enhance pedestrian safety at busy intersections, the City of Alamogordo announced plans to install a High-Intensity Activated crossWalK (HAWK) system along 10th Street, with construction set to begin next week. The project will involve temporary lane and road closures, prompting officials to urge drivers to plan alternate routes and exercise caution in work zones.

The installation, coordinated by the city’s Utilities Department - Engineering Division, targets key crossings to reduce pedestrian-related accidents and improve overall community well-being. “Together, we’re making Alamogordo safer for all,” the city stated in its public service announcement released Friday.

Scheduled closures include:

• Monday, March 2, and Tuesday, March 3, 2026: Outside lanes on 10th Street (both eastbound and westbound) at the intersection of 10th Street and New York Avenue will be closed for initial installation work.

• Wednesday, March 4, 2026: A full closure of 10th Street between White Sands Boulevard and Delaware Avenue from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. for final setup.

The HAWK system is a pedestrian-activated traffic signal designed to stop vehicles only when needed, allowing safe crossings while minimizing unnecessary disruptions to traffic flow. When not activated, the signals remain dark, promoting efficiency. Its unique flashing patterns — including a solid red for stopping, followed by flashing red for proceeding with caution — make it highly visible and recognizable to drivers.

Studies cited by the city, including those from the Federal Highway Administration, show HAWK systems can reduce pedestrian crashes by up to 29% at marked crosswalks. This initiative aligns with broader efforts in New Mexico to prioritize vulnerable road users, such as walkers, cyclists, and schoolchildren, especially in areas like 10th Street near commercial zones and residential neighborhoods.

Justen Boyle, Senior Project Manager for the Utilities Department, has emphasized the project’s importance in presentions before the city commission- “This upgrade will provide a safer environment for our pedestrians without compromising traffic efficiency,” Boyle said at a recent commission meeting. Residents with questions can contact him directly at 575-439-4235 or jpboyle@ci.alamogordo.nm.us.

The city encourages the public to stay informed through its official channels, including the website at ci.alamogordo.nm.us, the tourism site alamogordonmtrue.com, or the @CityOfAlamogordo Facebook page.

This project comes amid ongoing infrastructure improvements of waterlines, sewerline upgrades in Alamogordo, including recent sidewalk enhancements and traffic calming measures aimed at supporting safer streets for drivers and pedestrians.

Local drivers are advised to watch for signage and flaggers in the areas impacted and seek alternative routes to avoid delays.

For the full public service announcement, visit: https://ci.alamogordo.nm.us/DocumentCenter/View/17943/PSA–New-Traffic-Signal-Installation

Citations / Sources:

• City of Alamogordo Public Service Announcement: “New Traffic Signal Installation & Traffic Changes” (February 27, 2026) – full details on closures, HAWK explanation, and benefits: https://ci.alamogordo.nm.us/DocumentCenter/View/17943/PSA–New-Traffic-Signal-Installation

• Federal Highway Administration: “Proven Safety Countermeasures: Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons (HAWK)” – statistics on accident reduction: https://highways.dot.gov/safety/proven-safety-countermeasures/pedestrian-hybrid-beacons

• Alamogordo City Website and Facebook (@CityOfAlamogordo): Official channels for updates and community information (accessed March 1, 2026).

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